Brian Gardner has been named the City of Austin’s new Chief Information Security Officer (CISO). His appointment comes just three months after he was named Deputy Chief Information Officer in February, marking a swift promotion within the city’s technology leadership.
Gardner brings extensive public sector IT experience to the position, having previously served as Chief Information Officer and Chief Technology Officer for the City of Dallas. He holds a Ph.D. in Information Technology and has built a career focused on strengthening cybersecurity frameworks, modernizing municipal IT systems, and advancing digital services in large urban environments.
In his new role, Gardner is expected to lead the city’s cybersecurity strategy, with responsibilities spanning risk management, policy development, threat mitigation, and interdepartmental coordination. He will also oversee initiatives aimed at enhancing the city’s cyber resilience and ensuring compliance with state and federal security standards.
Gardner’s appointment comes at a time when municipalities across the country are contending with rising cyber threats. His leadership will be central to Austin’s efforts to safeguard critical infrastructure and digital assets while advancing its smart city ambitions.
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