Lincoln Launches Search for New IT Systems Director
The city seeks a new leader to manage technology infrastructure and cybersecurity for both Lincoln and Lancaster County.
Updated on Oct. 31, 2026 in People
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The city of Lincoln has launched a search for a new information systems director following the resignation of chief information officer Carl Steffen. The department oversees critical technology support for both the city and Lancaster County agencies.
Why it matters
The transition marks a pivotal shift for the Information Services Department, which manages technology strategy, cybersecurity, and innovation infrastructure for municipal and county operations.
The department currently provides technology support across the entire scope of Lincoln and Lancaster County operations, following a tenure for the outgoing CIO that began in 2025.
The players
Carl Steffen
The outgoing chief information officer who has led technology strategy for the city and county since 2025.
Gaylor Baird
The Mayor of Lincoln who is overseeing the transition and recruitment of new departmental leadership.
The details
The city is prioritizing candidates who can provide leadership for core technology initiatives, including strengthening cybersecurity protocols and fostering digital innovation. The incoming director will assume responsibility for an infrastructure that serves as the technical backbone for multiple county and city agencies.
Timeline
2025: Carl Steffen began serving as chief information officer.
Oct. 30, 2026: Mayor Gaylor Baird announced the search for a new director.
Nov. 6, 2026: Carl Steffen completes his final day as full-time director.
Dec. 1, 2026: Carl Steffen concludes his part-time transition support.
Market Landscape
The director role operates within the shared technology framework established by the interlocal agreement between the city of Lincoln and Lancaster County. This search reflects a transition in the management of that combined infrastructure as the department continues to balance dual-agency demand.
Operators in the region should monitor the new director's stated priorities for cybersecurity and digital service availability. Any shifts in technology procurement or department-wide service standards following the transition could affect vendors and contractors working with city and county agencies.
The takeaway
Leadership transitions in municipal IT departments can create temporary shifts in vendor engagement and project timelines. Monitor the city's official procurement portals for changes in software or service requirements as the department transitions to new leadership.
What happens next
Carl Steffen concludes his transition support on Dec. 1, 2026, marking the end of his official involvement with the department.
Further reading
For more on local leadership changes, visit People.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Omaha World-Herald.
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