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I am honored to submit this nomination for Feroz Merchhiya for the Technology Executive of the Year Award. Feroz has consistently demonstrated outstanding leadership, innovation, and transformative impact across multiple organizations and public sectors. Below, I highlight some of the key achievements and accolades that underscore Feroz’s exceptional contributions to the field of information technology.
Nucleus Research ROI Award Winner 2024
Feroz’s pioneering efforts in implementing a GenAI-based solution for the City of Glendale, Arizona, earned the prestigious 2024 Nucleus Research ROI Award. This initiative, the first in Arizona, significantly enhanced operational efficiency and demonstrated an impressive return on investment. The solution’s success highlights Feroz’s ability to leverage emerging technologies to drive tangible value for public sector organizations. The following are the results as assessed by Nucleus Research:
a. Cost-Benefit Ratio 1:6.2
b. Annual ROI 514%
c. Payback 0.3 Years
SustainableIT Social Impact Award Winner 2024
In 2024, Feroz led the development of a Modern Data Platform and GIS Center of Excellence, which facilitated the creation of sustainability dashboards for water conservation. This project won the 2024 SustainableIT Social Impact Award. It underscored Feroz’s commitment to using technology for environmental and societal benefits, setting a new standard for sustainable IT practices in municipal governance.
Leadership in High-Profile Events
Feroz was critical in leading technology initiatives for significant events such as the Super Bowl 2023, NCAA Final Four 2024, Fiesta Bowl, and Copa America 2024. These events required meticulous planning and robust IT infrastructure to manage the influx of visitors, media personnel, and heightened security needs. Feroz’s leadership ensured seamless technology operations, demonstrating a remarkable ability to manage high-pressure, large-scale projects with precision and excellence. His work was utilized this year when the Rams and Vikings game was moved to Glendale due to the LA fire.
2025 CIO Hall of Fame Nominee
Recognition as a nominee for the CIO Hall of Fame further cements Feroz’s status as a visionary leader in the technology industry. This nomination reflects a career marked by sustained excellence, innovation, and significant contributions to advancing the role of technology in organizational success.
SaaS Innovation 2023 CIO 100 Award
Under Feroz’s leadership, Glendale became the first city in Arizona to develop and deploy a Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) solution that is now utilized by 40% of cities across the state. This groundbreaking initiative provided a scalable technology solution for urban operations and established Glendale as a technology leader among Arizona cities. The success of the SaaS product exemplifies Feroz’s innovative approach to turning an IT department into a startup. In 2023, Feroz won the CIO 100 award for his groundbreaking work.
Multiple industry Recognitions
Feroz has been recognized with numerous prestigious awards, including the CIO Impact Award, Orbie Award, and Oracle Markie Award. Invited keynote speaker at industry events globally demonstrating consistent recognition from peers and industry leaders, acknowledging the significant impact of Feroz’s strategic leadership in driving digital transformation.
Proclamation from the City of Glendale
In 2024, the City of Glendale awarded Feroz a Proclamation to recognize the transformative impact on the city’s technology landscape. This honor highlights Feroz’s dedication to enhancing municipal services through innovative technology solutions, ultimately improving the quality of life for residents and setting a benchmark for other cities to follow.
Conclusion
Through a blend of visionary leadership, technological innovation, and commitment to public service, Feroz has consistently delivered outstanding results across multiple domains. Whether leading high-profile events, driving sustainable IT initiatives, or pioneering SaaS solutions for municipalities, Feroz has proven to be an exemplary CIO whose contributions have left an indelible mark on the industry. With great enthusiasm, I nominate Feroz for the Technology Executive of the Year Award, a recognition truly befitting of Feroz’s remarkable achievements and enduring legacy in the field of information technology.
This nomination acknowledges past accomplishments and anticipates the continued impact Feroz will have on the future of technology leadership.
Nominator: Iffat Tariq CDO I&I Software
Nomination Title: Feroz Merchhiya, Chief Information Officer
