Los Angeles has a tech czar

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Peter Marx, LA’s new tech czar

Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti today named Peter Marx as his Chief Innovation Technology Officer.

The city’s first tech czar will be in charge of revamping the city’s websites and mobile app in order to make LA services more efficient. He’ll also oversee the analysis and release of data collected by city agencies and departments.

“I’m thrilled to have him on the team and look forward to working with him to better serve Angelenos and foster the already strong tech ecosystem here in the City of Angels,” Garcetti said in a statement. “Harnessing technology is critical to the future of our economy and improving city services.”

Marx is a former executive at wireless tech company Qualcomm Labs, where he worked on making smartphones more aware of their surroundings. He also held posts at Electronic Arts, Universal Studios, and Mattel. He starts on Monday.

KCRW’s Steve Chiotakis spoke with Marx about his plans to make LA more tech-savvy.