Lincoln Searches for New Information Systems Director
Chief information officer Carl Steffen is stepping down after serving the city and Lancaster County since 2025.
Updated on Oct. 31, 2026 in People
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The city of Lincoln is launching a search for a new information systems director following the resignation of chief information officer Carl Steffen. Steffen, who has led the department supporting Lincoln and Lancaster County since 2025, is departing for a position outside the city.
Why it matters
The Information Services Department is responsible for critical technology support and cybersecurity for municipal and county agencies. Finding a replacement is necessary to maintain continuity in the government’s technology strategy and digital innovation efforts.
The city is seeking candidates with demonstrated leadership experience to manage technology strategy, strengthen cybersecurity, and support innovation across city and county agencies.
The players
Carl Steffen
He is the outgoing chief information officer for the city of Lincoln and Lancaster County who has served in the role since 2025.
Gaylor Baird
She is the Mayor of Lincoln who formally announced the city's search for a new information systems director.
The details
Mayor Gaylor Baird announced the search for a new director to lead the Information Services Department as it provides technology support to local government entities. The city is prioritizing candidates capable of guiding long-term digital strategy and infrastructure security.
Timeline
Carl Steffen began his role as chief information officer in 2025.
Mayor Gaylor Baird announced the search for a new director on Oct. 30, 2026.
Steffen will serve his last day as full-time director on Nov. 6, 2026.
Steffen will conclude his part-time transition support on Dec. 1, 2026.
Market Landscape
The search for a new director follows the procedural framework established by city hiring policy. This transition reflects a broader shift in local government leadership as municipalities compete to fill specialized technology roles.
The transition in leadership aims to ensure no service interruptions for technology support provided to residents and county agencies. Citizens should not expect changes to current digital service access during this administrative handover.
The takeaway
Maintaining steady leadership in the Information Services Department is crucial for protecting the cybersecurity of city records. Residents should remain aware that the city is actively working to fill this technical role to preserve operational stability.
Further reading
For more news regarding personnel changes in local government, visit the Lincoln People section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Omaha World-Herald.
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