Mayor Evans Appoints Chief Data Officer

Mayor Malik Evans revealed that Dhimant Master has been appointed the City's Chief Data Officer. This newly created position will oversee the implementation of a comprehensive data strategy and promote an evidence-based culture within the City workforce.

According to Evans, the appointment of Dhimant Master is expected to bring valuable insights into the practical applications of data. The goal is to improve customer service and develop more effective programs that yield measurable results for the people of Rochester. The data strategy and level of data expertise within the workforce are seen as crucial components in creating a safe, equitable, and prosperous Rochester.

Dhimant Master expressed his enthusiasm for the opportunity to contribute to the City's strategic direction and operational improvements. Throughout his career, he asserted he has focused on fostering data-driven cultures and leveraging data to drive meaningful insights and outcomes. Master said he is grateful to Mayor Evans for entrusting him with this position.

Evans confirmed that, as Chief Data Officer, Master will enhance the City's ability to utilize data in decision-making, program evaluation, and policy implementation. He will collaborate with departmental leaders, staff, and other stakeholders to integrate data analysis into City operations and evaluate the effectiveness of City services for the residents, employers, and visitors of Rochester.

In addition, Master will oversee the City's participation in Bloomberg Philanthropies' What Works Cities Certification process. The believes this initiative aims to establish a standard of excellence for data-driven and well-managed local government. The City of Rochester was one of 11 cities worldwide to be inducted into Bloomberg's City Data Alliance in 2022, which provides consultation, coaching, and engagement opportunities for using data to enhance municipal services.

Dhimant Master brings nearly 20 years of experience to his new role with the City. He most recently served as the head of Business Intelligence, Analytics, Data, and Robotics Process Automation at Crown Castle, a communications infrastructure company. Before that, he held senior management positions at American Tower Corp. and Xerox Corp.

Master holds master's degrees from the University of Rochester and Syracuse University. He is currently pursuing a master's degree in data science at Harvard University.