Richard Spires was named chief information officer for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). “In today’s digital age, the role of information technology at DHS has never been more critical,” said DHS Secretary Janet Napolitano.

Spires will manage and direct information management support processes—combining the functions of information technology and telecommunications to provide coordinated support strategies for meeting DHS-mission related information needs.

 

He has experience in senior-level operations and information technology issues, working in both the private and public sectors. He oversaw IT responsibilities for the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) as Deputy Commissioner for Operations Support, Chief Information Officer and Associate Chief Information Officer for Business Systems Modernization, respectively.