“Queensland’s Chief Customer and Digital Officer Poised to Leave This Week”
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Quick Overview
- Chris McLaren, Queensland’s Chief Customer and Digital Officer, is departing after almost three years.
- A newly formed Department of Customer Services, Open Data, and Small and Family Business has been unveiled.
- This department intends to simplify government services and advance digital transformation.
- Andrew Spina has been designated as Acting Chief Customer and Digital Officer, while Chris Lamont will become the new Director-General starting January 2025.
- Among McLaren’s significant achievements are advancements in AI, the implementation of Starlink for First Nations communities, and initiatives to improve digital skills.
- The launch of the new digital services platform is anticipated in 2024, featuring cutting-edge products and services.
Leadership Change During Government Restructuring
Chris McLaren, Queensland’s Chief Customer and Digital Officer, is set to resign this week as part of an extensive governmental reshuffle. This reorganization follows the state elections in October and merges the government’s digital and business services into a newly established Department of Customer Services, Open Data, and Small and Family Business.
Steve Minniken, the Minister overseeing the portfolio, announced that Andrew Spina would take on the role of Acting Chief Customer and Digital Officer throughout the transition, with Chris Lamont stepping in as Director-General on January 6, 2025.
Aims of the New Department
The formation of this new department intends to enhance the efficiency of government services for Queensland residents and small businesses by bringing together customer service across all government sectors. The objective is to create Australia’s most customer-centric government, improving accessibility and efficiency in service provision.
Chris McLaren’s Contributions
During his time in office, McLaren directed the Customer and Digital Group, focusing on IT infrastructure, shared services, cybersecurity, data management, and artificial intelligence. Looking back on his accomplishments, he expressed satisfaction with his team’s commitment to achieving transformative results for the people of Queensland, often working behind the scenes without gaining publicity.
Among the notable initiatives under McLaren’s leadership are:
- Creation of an AI risk evaluation framework and guidelines.
- Broadened deployment of the AI-assisted QChat throughout public services.
- Implementation of Starlink low-earth orbit (LEO) internet access to 16 Queensland First Nations communities.
- Significant relocation of data centers and the establishment of a digital service platform alongside a design system.
- Equipping Queenslanders with vital digital skills to fulfill the requirements of future job markets.
Upcoming Plans: Digital Services Platform
McLaren also emphasized the forthcoming digital services platform, expected to debut in 2024. This platform will present a range of new digital products and services designed to further modernize public service delivery. Its emphasis will be on accessibility, efficiency, and innovation, bolstering Queensland’s continuous digital transformation initiatives.
What Lies Ahead for Chris McLaren?
As he prepares for his departure, McLaren intends to take a well-earned break before pursuing new ventures. “I’m eager to discover what’s next for me,” he mentioned, hinting at his ongoing passion for digital innovation and impactful projects. He also expressed hope that the government would sustain its focus on priorities such as digital inclusion, regional connectivity, and workforce development.
Conclusion
Chris McLaren’s exit signifies the end of a pivotal era for Queensland’s digital services. Under his guidance, the state attained remarkable advancements in AI, connectivity, and customer service innovation. Moving forward, the government’s dedication to digital transformation is set to persist, with the anticipated launch of a new digital services platform and the creation of a department focused on customer service and support for small businesses.
Q: What stands out as Chris McLaren’s key achievement?
A:
One of McLaren’s most significant accomplishments is the introduction of Starlink LEO internet services to all 16 First Nations communities in Queensland, greatly enhancing digital inclusion and connectivity in secluded regions.
Q: What is the mission of the new department?
A:
The newly formed Department of Customer Services, Open Data, and Small and Family Business aims to improve government services, amplify customer-centric initiatives, and aid small and family businesses through integrated digital and service delivery frameworks.
Q: Who will succeed McLaren?
A:
Andrew Spina is set to act as Chief Customer and Digital Officer, while Chris Lamont will join as the new Director-General starting January 6, 2025.
Q: What is the importance of the upcoming digital services platform?
A:
Launching in 2024, the digital services platform will provide innovative digital offerings and services, further advancing Queensland’s approach to modern public service delivery and improving accessibility for both residents and businesses.
Q: In what ways did McLaren influence AI initiatives?
A:
McLaren played a vital role in crafting an AI risk assessment framework, defining AI protocols, and broadening the implementation of the QChat AI-powered assistant across public services.
Q: What are McLaren’s plans moving forward?
A:
McLaren intends to take time off before pursuing new opportunities where he can continue to exert influence, especially in the realm of digital innovation and transformation.
