Feroz Merchhiya
Chief Information Officer
Professional Overview
Feroz Merchhiya is a seasoned technology leader with over 20 years of experience driving digital transformation and aligning technology strategy with business objectives. As the Chief Information Officer (CIO) for the City of Santa Monica and a CIO/CTO at a stealth mode startup, he brings a unique blend of public sector and private industry expertise to his roles. Feroz is also an active member of the Forbes Technology Council, where he shares his insights on the evolving landscape of information technology.
Experience Summary
Current Role
As the CIO for the City of Santa Monica, Feroz is responsible for overseeing the city's technology infrastructure, data management, and digital initiatives. In this role, he has spearheaded the implementation of cloud-based solutions, enhanced cybersecurity measures, and leveraged data analytics to drive operational efficiency and improve citizen services. Feroz's leadership has been instrumental in the city's recognition as a leading smart city, with several innovative technology projects under his guidance.
Concurrently, Feroz serves as the CIO/CTO for a stealth mode startup company, where he is responsible for building the technology foundation and driving the company's digital strategy. His expertise in emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence and the Internet of Things, has been crucial in shaping the startup's competitive edge.
Career Progression
Prior to his current roles, Feroz held various technology leadership positions, including CTO at KAYGEN, Inc., IT Governance and Information Security at Los Angeles Metro, and Assistant Vice President at LPL Financial. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated a strong track record of driving digital transformation, improving operational efficiency, and implementing robust cybersecurity measures.
Feroz's diverse professional experience also includes serving as a Board Member for the Association for Executives in Healthcare Information Technology (AEHIT) and as a Member of the Governor Hobbs Broadband Advisory Council Working Groups.
Academic Background
Feroz holds a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science and a Master's degree in Information Systems from the University of Redlands. He has also served as an Adjunct Faculty member at the University of Redlands, sharing his expertise with the next generation of technology professionals.
Areas of Expertise
- Information technology strategy and governance
- Cloud computing and infrastructure management
- Data analytics and business intelligence
- Cybersecurity and risk management
- Digital transformation and innovation
- Emerging technologies (AI, IoT, etc.)
- Public sector technology leadership
Professional Impact
Under Feroz's leadership, the City of Santa Monica has been recognized as a leading smart city, with several innovative technology projects contributing to enhanced citizen services and operational efficiency. As a member of the Forbes Technology Council, he has shared his insights on the evolving role of the CIO and the importance of aligning technology with business objectives.
Conclusion
Feroz Merchhiya is a seasoned technology leader with a proven track record of driving digital transformation and delivering positive business outcomes. His extensive experience in both the public and private sectors, combined with his expertise in emerging technologies, positions him as a valuable asset in the continuously evolving technology landscape.
