Description

Technology in local government is more than servers and software—it’s about people and outcomes. In this conversation, Hugh Plappert talks with Bob Leek, CIO of Clark County, Nevada, about how leadership, community impact, and innovation intersect in the public sector.

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Bob Leek shares stories from a career that’s moved from private industry to public service—from Egghead, Banfield, and Kaiser Permanente to leading one of the largest counties in the nation. He discusses the shift from profit-driven technology to mission-driven outcomes, the importance of “success skills” like empathy and communication, and how Clark County’s IT team supports everything from public safety to social services.

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Listeners hear firsthand how technology enables healthy, thriving communities and why careers in public service technology offer both purpose and opportunity.

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👤 Guest Bio

Bob Leek serves as CIO for Clark County, Nevada. With experience spanning private sector technology and public service, his focus is on leveraging technology for better community outcomes. His leadership emphasizes people-centered IT, workforce development, and mission-driven innovation in one of the largest counties in the U.S.

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📌 What We Cover

• Bob Leek’s career path from private sector tech to public service
• How early exposure to computers inspired a lifelong focus on outcomes through technology
• Lessons from roles at Egghead, Banfield Pet Hospital, and Kaiser Permanente
• The transition from profit-based business models to mission-driven government work
• Leading Clark County’s IT organization serving 2.5 million residents and 50 million annual visitors
• Building healthy teams through “success skills,” empathy, and mindfulness
• How technology supports residents, business owners, visitors, and employees
• Frameworks for accessibility, inclusion, and community-centered service design
• Advice for students, veterans, and professionals exploring careers in public sector IT
• The long-term rewards and stability of a career in local government technology

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🔗 Resources Mentioned

• Clark County Nevada – job opportunities and IT department homepage
• Society for Information Management – Las Vegas Chapter

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(Show Notes prepared for Ground Floor Government, hosted by Hugh Plappert and produced by PhoneLive.io.)