jeff merritt (born may 16, 1978) is an internationally-recognized leader in the area of smart cities, the internet of things (iot), emerging technology and government innovation. he currently serves as head of iot, robotics and smart cities for the world economic forum. merritt previously worked as director of innovation for the city of new york as part of the mayor's office of technology and innovation. he is also known for his work as founder of the new york city nonprofit organization, grassroots initiative, where he organized the first exclusively online public election in the united states.