Greg McCarthy announced as City’s new Chief Information Security Officer

Mayor Martin J. Walsh today announced the appointment of Gregory McCarthy as the City’s first Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) to lead the Cybersecurity Team within the Department of Innovation and Technology. This appointment elevates the role previously held by McCarthy and marks a commitment to strengthening efforts to protect the City of Boston’s technology platforms and data from cyber threats.

Since joining the City of Boston’s Cybersecurity Team in 2010, McCarthy has managed the implementation of numerous information security solutions and helped develop the City's first Cybersecurity Awareness Program for employees. In this role, McCarthy will continue to lead efforts to strengthen the cybersecurity capabilities across the City and further the team’s mission through modernizing technology, partnerships, and regular training.  

“Cybersecurity is something we clearly have to take seriously, and there are always new challenges ahead; a humbling reminder that our work in this field is never done," said McCarthy. "It is an honor to be in this position for the City of Boston, and to have the opportunity to lead the City into a new chapter of maturity in how we protect our systems, data, and constituents.”

Prior to joining the City, McCarthy spent five years as a Principal Research Technician at the Rhode Island Department of Corrections. McCarthy holds an undergraduate degree in Criminal Justice and a graduate degree in Information Assurance, both from Northeastern University. He has also earned a Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) certification from ISACA, graduate certification in Project Management from Boston University, and a Project Management Professional (PMP) certification from the Project Management Institute. McCarthy resides in Jamaica Plain with his husband and serves as a Board Member for the Friends of the Jamaica Plain Branch Library.

The City's Department of Innovation and Technology (DoIT) strives to engage, empower, and improve life for residents in the City through technology. The focus areas of their work includes digital engagement and services, data and analytics, and broadband, cable and digital equity. The department oversees the development and implementation of new digital tools, open data, Wicked Free Wi-Fi, mobile apps, and cybersecurity practices. You can learn more about the department online.