The Department of Human Services has restructured its chief information officer group.

Reports say the department is preparing for its next-generation technology strategy by replacing the CIOG’s chief technology office with two separate divisions focused on strategy and implementation and architecture and innovation.

It comes after former ANZ architecture executive Michael McNamara joined the major government IT operation as its permanent chief information officer in January.

“The restructure allows for an increased focus on forward planning as the department’s Technology Plan 2016-20 wraps up and the next generation strategy takes shape,” a spokesperson told tech media outlet ITnews.

“Restructures are a regular part of managing such a large organisation to ensure capabilities are aligned with operational needs.”

Functions previously performed by the chief technology officer have been “absorbed under the restructured divisions”.