Obama names America's chief information officer

Vivek Kundra is the new US chief information officer

President Barack Obama has officially named Vivek Kundra as the country's chief information officer (CIO).

Kundra will work within the White House and the Federal government in general to oversee IT spending for government computer systems. He will also work with the nation's chief technology officer, who has yet to be named, on larger technology initiatives.

Prior to his appointment, Kundra held the chief technology office for the District of Columbia, overseeing technology operations within the capital and its various agencies.

"As CIO he will play a key role in making sure our government is running in the most secure, open and efficient way possible," said Obama.

"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."