Newport News Appoints Hassan Janjua as First Chief Information Officer

Newport News, Virginia, has appointed Hassan Janjua as its inaugural Chief Information Officer (CIO), marking a significant shift in the city's approach to technology management.

 

Janjua is set to assume his new role in February, bringing over 24 years of experience in public-sector technology leadership.

 

Previously, he served as Senior IT Division Manager for Los Angeles County's Internal Services Department, overseeing technology portfolios that supported more than 100,000 users across various departments.

 

His responsibilities included managing automation initiatives, cloud data projects, and modernizing legacy technologies.

 

His work earned recognition from the National Association of Counties and garnered quality and productivity awards from Los Angeles County.

 

Janjua holds a bachelor's degree in mathematical sciences from McMaster University in Canada and is pursuing an executive Master of Business Administration.

 

The creation of the CIO position follows an organizational realignment aimed at aligning the city's information technology functions with broader strategic and operational goals.

 

Previously, the city's IT department was led by a Director of Information Technology.

 

City Manager Alan K. Archer emphasized that Janjua's appointment is intended to support ongoing operational and service needs while advancing strategic priorities, improving internal operations, and ensuring the city remains well-positioned to serve residents now and in the future.

 

In his new role, Janjua will oversee the city's enterprise systems, cybersecurity, data and analytics, and digital transformation initiatives.

 

He will also be responsible for advancing the city's Technology Infrastructure Readiness Plan, which outlines priorities related to system security, resilience, and long-term technology planning.

 

Janjua's appointment comes at a time of significant development in Newport News.

 

Recent projects include the approval of a $400 million Navy housing project aimed at revitalizing downtown and the groundbreaking of a $9 million Trades Center by Virginia Peninsula Community College to bolster workforce training in maritime and construction trades.

 

These initiatives reflect the city's commitment to growth and modernization, aligning with the strategic vision that Janjua is expected to help drive forward.

 

As Newport News continues to evolve, the establishment of the CIO role underscores the city's dedication to leveraging technology to enhance services and meet the needs of its residents.

 

Janjua's extensive experience positions him to lead these efforts effectively, ensuring that the city's technological infrastructure supports its ambitious development plans.