Dallas appoints new cybersecurity chief

The City of Dallas has appointed James Wilkinson as its new Chief Information Security Officer (CISO), with responsibility for strengthening cyber resilience across municipal systems, public services and departments.

Wilkinson will lead the city’s enterprise information-security programme when he begins the role on 17 August.

“I am honoured and excited to join the City of Dallas as Chief Information Security Officer,” Wilkinson said in a LinkedIn post. “I look forward to working with Jeff [Stovall, CIO], the ITS leadership team, and colleagues across the city to strengthen cybersecurity, resilience, and trust while supporting the city’s mission and the communities we serve.”

Kimberly Bizor Tolbert, City Manager, said Wilkinson’s background would support the city’s cybersecurity and technology-modernisation efforts.

“James’ leadership across national security, financial services, and mission-critical technology environments will be an important asset as Dallas continues strengthening its cybersecurity capabilities,” she said. “His experience leading complex organisations and advancing risk-based security programmes will help protect city services, support modernisation, and reinforce public trust.”

Wilkinson brings more than 25 years of experience in technology, cybersecurity, risk management and operational leadership across the national security, financial services, aerospace, defence and public sectors.

He completed 26 years of military service, including senior cyber leadership assignments with the United States Army and United States Marine Corps. His roles included Chief of Cyber Mission Forces and responsibilities related to cyber operations, technology modernisation, resource management and mission-critical capabilities.

Following his military service, Wilkinson held senior technology and cybersecurity positions at Wells Fargo, Lockheed Martin Aeronautics and MUFG Bank. His experience includes cyber risk, regulatory compliance, operational resilience, identity and access management and disaster recovery.

“I am honoured to have the opportunity to serve the people of Dallas,” Wilkinson said. “I look forward to working with city leaders and partners to safeguard our digital infrastructure and ensure we can securely deliver vital services to every neighbourhood.”

Image: Wilkinson/LinkedIn