The city of Long Beach, Calif., announced on Oct. 22 that it appointed Tendaji K. Jamal as its new director of technology and innovation, effective Nov. 16, 2026, to oversee the city’s technology modernization, cybersecurity, and digital services initiatives.
Jamal brings more than 25 years of public-sector technology leadership experience to the role, according to the city’s press release. He will lead the city’s Technology and Innovation Department (TID), including implementation of its four-year TID28 strategic roadmap, which outlines 31 projects to improve technology infrastructure and government services.
“Tendaji brings a wealth of experience in modernizing complex technology systems and developing strategic solutions that support organizational goals,” said Long Beach City Manager Tom Modica. “His leadership and expertise in cybersecurity, digital transformation and collaborative technology planning will be instrumental as we continue to strengthen our infrastructure and improve the delivery of City services.”
As Long Beach’s new technology director, Jamal will prioritize modernizing critical IT infrastructure, strengthening cybersecurity protections, and improving coordination across city departments.
His initial work will include conducting a comprehensive assessment of city technology systems and operational needs, meeting with departments and staff, and establishing transparent processes to prioritize technology investments and projects.
Those priorities align with the city’s TID28 strategic roadmap, which was approved by the City Council in May 2025 and aims to improve technology reliability, security, and service delivery.
Jamal also plans to streamline internal workflows, improve data sharing across departments, and expand digital services that let residents and businesses access city resources more easily.
City officials said those efforts will emphasize language accessibility, digital inclusion, and equitable access to technology, particularly for historically underserved communities.
“Technology in local government is ultimately about serving people by delivering dependable services, safeguarding public trust through robust cybersecurity and ensuring every resident has equitable access to City resources,” Jamal said.
“I look forward to working alongside the talented Technology and Innovation team and all departments across the City to build secure, reliable, and accessible services that make a meaningful difference in the lives of Long Beach residents,” he added.
Jamal’s appointment follows a leadership transition within the Technology and Innovation Department. Deputy City Manager Meredith Reynolds has served as acting director since April 4, 2026, overseeing the department during a period of restructuring.
Reynolds will return to her role as deputy city manager on Nov. 13, ahead of Jamal’s Nov. 16 start date.
