Ending his reelection bid for a state House seat representing parts of Hillsborough and Pinellas Counties, state Rep. James Grant, R-Tampa, will take over as Florida’s Chief Information Officer (CIO).
The Florida Department of Management Services (DMS) announced on Thursday Grant will lead the Florida Digital Service [FL DS] to ensure the state government does better with technology.
“Governor DeSantis and I are dedicated to transforming the way government deploys technology to better serve Floridians, who deserve superior customer service and expect government to operate effectively,” said FDMS Sec. Jonathan Satter. “I’m confident that Rep. Grant’s pioneering mindset and policy acumen will help us recruit the brightest tech talent to serve in government and accelerate digital transformation in our state.”
“I’m honored to lead the charge for digital innovation in Florida and excited to leverage technology to problem solve and rapidly respond to individuals, families, and businesses seeking to engage with state government,” said Grant. “Through new technology, top talent, and private and public sector collaboration, we will fundamentally change the way we serve and communicate with the people of Florida.”
According to DMS, “Rep. Grant’s business background includes his work as a senior solutions architect as well as technology strategist in medtech, blockchain, and Software as a Service.”
The son of former state Rep. John Grant, James Grant was elected to the Florida House in 2010 and served two terms before stepping aside after winning a third term but the House rejected the results on a technicality. Grant ran again and returned to the House in a special election held in 2015. He was running for reelection this year.
Reach Kevin Derby at kevin.derby@floridadaily.com.
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