Illinois Appoints Tamara Roust Chief AI Officer

The state has tapped Tamara Roust to lead its strategy for the safe and innovative implementation of artificial intelligence.

Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in People

Isometric editorial illustration of a modular server rack unit, symbolizing state data infrastructure and governance. — Illinois has appointed Tamara Roust as the state’s second chief AI officer to oversee the integration and governance of artificial intelligence systems. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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The Illinois Department of Innovation and Technology has officially appointed Tamara Roust to serve as the state's second chief AI officer. Roust stepped into the role on October 16, 2026, following the departure of the state's inaugural chief AI officer, Kader Sakkaria.

Why it matters

As the state's new chief AI officer, Roust is tasked with guiding the statewide strategy for the safe, responsible, and innovative use of artificial intelligence technology. Her leadership aims to oversee the integration of these systems across state functions.

Tamara Roust brings 25 years of professional experience in AI and data leadership to the role. She earned her doctorate in management information systems in 2008.

The players

Tamara Roust

She is the new chief AI officer for Illinois and previously served as the state's chief data officer.

Kader Sakkaria

He served as the inaugural chief AI officer for the state of Illinois until July 2026.

Illinois Department of Innovation and Technology

This is the state agency responsible for managing Illinois' information technology services and digital strategy.

The details

Roust transitions into this position with an extensive background in data governance, having previously served as the state's chief data officer starting in November 2019. Her prior resume includes high-level roles at the U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission and the U.S. Department of the Treasury.

November 2019: Roust began her tenure as Illinois state chief data officer.
April 2019: Roust received a machine learning certification from Stanford University.
May 2025: Roust founded FAIT Consulting.
July 2, 2026: Kader Sakkaria served his final day as the state's inaugural chief AI officer.
October 16, 2026: Tamara Roust officially began her role as chief AI officer.

Market Landscape

The appointment of a chief AI officer reflects a broader trend among state governments to centralize authority over emerging digital tools. By formalizing this role, Illinois aims to remain competitive with other states and private sector entities integrating AI systems.

The transition to a new AI chief may shift how state services interact with residents through automated systems and data processing. Citizens may notice changes in the digital accessibility or security of state resources as new policies are implemented.

The takeaway

The appointment of a dedicated AI lead suggests that Illinois is prioritizing the structured management of automated technologies in the public sector. Residents can expect the state to emphasize safety and responsibility as these digital capabilities continue to evolve.