Richardson formerly served as senior counsel for privacy and data protection in artificial intelligence at Mastercard, according to her LinkedIn profile, which also lists her as a senior AI policy expert at the Institute for Experiential AI at Northeastern University.
In her new role, she’ll support the city’s data management office and Chief Technology Officer (CTO) Lisa Gelobter, a City Hall official said, confirming Richardson’s hiring. Gelobter, who joined the administration last month, is arguably its highest-profile technology hire to date.
Her senior adviser position is separate from the CTO, and she reportedly will be among strategic thinkers and policy advisers within the office of Deputy Mayor for Operations Julia Kerson. Given her AI background, it’s likely Richardson will play a leadership role in the city’s adoption and use of AI tools.
New York City launched several pilots late last year focused on the safety of streets and infrastructure, and aimed at providing more detailed data around pedestrian activity. Another pilot will test how augmented reality and a community engagement platform can work together on a 3D design for a Queens recreation building.
And arriving late last year, the Big Apple Connect Digital Learning Resource Hub provides public housing residents with virtual classes and other materials to advance their digital literacy.
