United States President Barack Obama [Images] named Vivek Kundra as the Federal Chief Information Officer at the White House on Thursday.

Vivek Kundra had formerly served as the Chief Technology Officer for the District of Columbia, and was responsible for technology operations and strategy for 86 agencies. 

He has been recognized among the top 25 CTO's in the country and as the 2008 IT Executive of the Year for his pioneering work to drive transparency, engage citizens and lower the cost of government operations. Kundra is also recognized for his leadership in public safety communications, cyber security and IT portfolio management.

Before serving the District of Columbia, Virginia Governor Timothy M Kaine appointed him Assistant Secretary of Commerce and Technology, the first dual cabinet role in the state's history. 

Kundra's diverse record also includes technology and public policy experience in private industry and academia. He is a graduate of the University of Virginia's Sorensen Institute for Political Leadership and holds a Masters in Information Technology from the University of Maryland.

The Federal Chief Information Officer will direct the policy and strategic planning of the federal information technology investments and will be responsible for oversight of federal technology spending. 

"The Federal CIO establishes and oversees enterprise architecture to ensure system interoperability and information sharing and ensure information security and privacy across the federal government.  The CIO will also work closely with the Chief Technology Officer to advance the President's technology agenda," A White House press release said.

President Obama said, "Vivek Kundra will bring a depth of experience in the technology arena and a commitment to lowering the cost of government operations to this position.  I have directed him to work to ensure that we are using the spirit of American innovation and the power of technology to improve performance and lower the cost of government operations. As Chief Information Officer, he will play a key role in making sure our government is running in the most secure, open, and efficient way possible."