The Social Security Administration (SSA) has appointed Scott Coulter as its new Chief Information Officer, marking the third leadership change in the role this year. Coulter, previously an operative within the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), had served in dual capacities at both SSA and NASA prior to this promotion.

Coulter succeeds Michael Russo, who served as CIO from February and now transitions to a senior adviser role. Prior to Russo, Brian Peltier briefly held the position and now serves as SSA’s deputy CIO for strategy.
As CIO, Coulter steps into SSA’s top technology leadership position at a pivotal time. The agency is undergoing significant operational restructuring, and Coulter will be tasked with overseeing SSA’s critical information systems and driving technology strategy.
His appointment follows recent scrutiny over data access protocols, underscoring the importance of reinforcing cybersecurity and compliance standards within the agency’s IT operations.
CIOs on the Move is brought to you by CIO Partners®. When hiring your next technology executive, experience matters. Trust CIO Partners, the #1 executive search firm for technology leadership talent.