This month, we’re thrilled to spotlight 40 CIOs, CTOs, and CISOs stepping into new roles across a diverse range of industries. These dynamic leaders are set to drive innovation, lead digital transformations, and tackle critical challenges with their wealth of experience and fresh perspectives.
From enhancing cybersecurity to revolutionizing IT strategies, these 40 executives are poised to shape the future of their organizations. Congratulations to each of them as they embark on this exciting next chapter!
Marc Kermisch – Chief Technology Officer at Emergent Software
Emergent Software, a leading provider of business technology solutions, has appointed Marc Kermisch as Chief Technology Officer. Kermisch, formerly the Global Chief Digital and Information Officer at CNH Industrial, brings extensive experience across industries such as manufacturing, retail, healthcare, and financial services. In his new role, he will drive Emergent Software’s technology strategy, solution offerings, and customer engagements. CEO Jamie Anderson praised Kermisch as a visionary leader whose expertise aligns with the company’s mission to deliver transformative business outcomes through innovation.
Marquess Lewis – Chief Technology Officer at Echo360
Echo360, a global leader in SaaS solutions for education and business, has named Marquess Lewis as Chief Technology Officer. Lewis brings extensive expertise in AI, data architecture, secure digital infrastructures, and strategic transformations from roles at Scholastic, Pearson, Unicon Inc., and Starz. He will lead innovation and scalability efforts during a period of rapid growth for Echo360’s Echosystem™ Learning Transformation Platform™. Echo360 CEO Murad Velani praised Lewis’s proven ability to deliver scalable, secure solutions that enhance learning outcomes.
Prakash Pandian – Chief Information Officer at Kindeva Drug Delivery
Kindeva Drug Delivery has appointed Prakash Pandian as Chief Information Officer to lead its digital transformation initiatives aimed at enhancing manufacturing automation, operational efficiency, and revenue growth. With over 25 years of IT and digital leadership experience, including roles at Curia, Biogen, Millipore Corporation, and Merck KGaA, Pandian will develop a global IT roadmap to future-proof processes and drive technology adoption across the organization. CEO Milton Boyer emphasized Pandian’s role as pivotal to Kindeva’s growth strategy, leveraging cutting-edge technologies to deliver enterprise value.
Michael Schnabel – Chief Information Officer at UT Health San Antonio
UT Health San Antonio has named Michael Schnabel as Vice President and Chief Information Officer. Schnabel, a UT Health veteran since 2013, previously served as Chief Information Security Officer and Assistant Vice President of Information Security and Operations, where he modernized IT operations and advanced cybersecurity infrastructure. With prior leadership roles at City of Hope National Medical Center and Gateway Business Bank, Schnabel brings extensive experience in IT management, cybersecurity, and data governance.
Mike Shelton – Chief Information Officer at The University of Alabama
Mike Shelton has been appointed as the Vice Provost and Chief Information Officer at The University of Alabama, set to assume his new responsibilities on December 1. Shelton, currently the deputy CIO at UA’s Office of Information Technology, brings over 25 years of IT experience, including a deep commitment to the university community since he began as a programmer in 2006. Throughout his tenure, Shelton has led several transformative initiatives, such as developing the Office of Information Technology’s strategic plan, centralizing email and collaboration services, and advancing cloud technology adoption. In his new position, Shelton will spearhead the strategic direction for UA’s IT organization, enhancing digital infrastructure to support academic, research, and administrative goals.
Chris Harle – Chief Information Officer at Regenstrief Institute
Regenstrief Institute has appointed Chris Harle, Ph.D, M.S. as Chief Information Officer. Dr. Harle will lead Regenstrief Data Services (RDS), overseeing operations, researcher access to the Indiana Network for Patient Care (INPC), and supporting innovative healthcare solutions. Retaining his academic roles at Indiana University, Dr. Harle brings extensive leadership experience, including his prior position as Chief Research Information Officer at the University of Florida Health. Known for his impactful work on clinical decision support tools like the Chronic Pain OneSheet, Dr. Harle’s research bridges healthcare, IT, and public health, earning him recognition as a Fellow-elect of the American College of Medical Informatics.
Stephanie Benes – Chief Information Officer at High Plains Bank
High Plains Bank has announced the appointment of Stephanie Benes as Chief Information Officer, bringing over 20 years of expertise in technology leadership, IT modernization, and product development. Benes, a Longmont resident, expressed enthusiasm for joining the organization, citing her admiration for the bank’s growth mindset and community-focused values. As CIO, she will lead the IT department, develop strategic initiatives, and foster organizational collaboration. Brian Otteman, Chief Experience Officer, praised Benes’ technical expertise and collaborative spirit, emphasizing the positive impact her leadership will bring to the bank’s infrastructure and community engagement.
Kelli Lane – Chief Technology Officer at Hoover City Schools
The Hoover Board of Education has promoted Kelli Lane to Chief Technology Officer. Lane, who has been with Hoover City Schools since 2014 as Director of Technology Integration, brings over 20 years of experience in educational technology. Recognized for advancing classroom innovation and leading data-driven technology initiatives, Lane has managed the district’s instructional software, professional development, and technology infrastructure. A Google for Education Advisory Board member, Lane is also credited with developing a statewide certification program for technology leaders. As CTO, she will oversee districtwide technology initiatives, budgets, and infrastructure while continuing to drive innovation in education.
William Walders – Chief Digital and Information Officer at The Joint Commission
The Joint Commission enterprise, comprising The Joint Commission, Joint Commission International, Joint Commission Resources, and the National Quality Forum, has appointed William Walders as Vice President and Chief Digital and Information Officer. Walders brings extensive expertise in IT strategy, digital transformation, and data management, and will lead the enterprise’s IT and digital operations, including expanding digital product offerings and enhancing data analytics through modern infrastructure. Walders joins from BayCare, where he was Senior Vice President and CIO, and has also held leadership roles at Health First and VMware, alongside 22 years of distinguished service in the U.S. Navy.
Serena Sacks-Mandel – Chief Technology Officer at MGT
MGT, a leader in technology and advisory solutions, has appointed Serena Sacks-Mandel as Field Chief Technology Officer (CTO). With a distinguished career spanning leadership roles at Microsoft, Walt Disney World, and IBM, Sacks-Mandel brings transformative expertise to drive MGT’s integration of strategic advisory, technology solutions, and SaaS offerings. Most recently, as Global CTO for education at Microsoft, she revolutionized learning through student-centered technology innovations. At MGT, Sacks-Mandel will also lead AI initiatives to empower clients in education, government, and commercial markets while advancing social impact goals.
Andrew Bronson – Chief Information Officer at Streamline Healthcare
Andrew Bronson has joined Streamline Healthcare Solutions as Chief Information Officer, bringing over 25 years of experience in software engineering, IT infrastructure, and client management. Bronson’s expertise in aligning technology strategies with business objectives, optimizing operations, and enhancing security standards will be instrumental in advancing Streamline’s mission to empower behavioral health and human services organizations. Previously, Bronson held leadership roles at Mental Health Partners and Cognizant, where he implemented innovative IT strategies and achieved significant operational improvements.
Chris Della Rocca – Chief Information Officer at Johnson & Johnson
Johnson & Johnson has appointed Chris Della Rocca as Senior Vice President and Chief Information Officer for Corporate Business Technology. With nearly 20 years at J&J, Della Rocca previously served as CIO for Technical Operations and Risk. In his new position, he will oversee the technology strategy for corporate functions including HR, finance, legal, corporate affairs, and technical operations. Reporting to EVP and CIO Jim Swanson, Della Rocca brings extensive experience from multiple CIO roles within J&J, including leadership in the Janssen Pharmaceuticals Americas division.
Steve Frank – Chief Information Security Officer at KPMG
Steve Frank, a distinguished cybersecurity executive, has been named Chief Information Security Officer for both KPMG and KPMG Americas. Frank announced his appointment on LinkedIn, succeeding John Israel, who has transitioned to the role of Global AI Security and Data Security Lead at KPMG. Frank brings an impressive background to his new role. Most recently, he served as Deputy CISO and Executive Director of the Cyber Risk Defense Center (CRDC) at Kaiser Permanente. There, he led enterprise cybersecurity operations, including incident detection and response, digital forensics, threat intelligence, and SOC infrastructure management. Frank’s career also includes a notable tenure at the CIA, where he spent over 15 years in leadership positions such as Technical Director of the Cyber Technology Office, Chief of Cyber Defense, and Deputy CISO. Additionally, he has served on the Board of Advisors at Praetorian.
Matt Mehlbrech – Chief Information Officer at Bio-Technel
Matt Mehlbrech has joined Bio-Techne, a global developer, manufacturer, and supplier of high-quality reagents, analytical instruments, and precision diagnostics, as Vice President, IT & Chief Information Officer. With over 25 years of leadership experience in IT strategy and operations, Mehlbrech brings a strong track record of driving innovation and aligning technology with business objectives. Prior to this role, he served as Vice President of Information Technology at CoorsTek, Inc., and held multiple IT leadership roles at Eaton.
Guy Peri – Chief Information and Digital Officer at McCormick & Company
McCormick & Company has appointed Guy Peri as Chief Information and Digital Officer, tasking him with leading the company’s digital transformation and enterprise IT strategy. With nearly 30 years of expertise in digital strategy, including AI, cloud, and predictive analytics, Peri joins McCormick from Procter & Gamble, where he served as Chief Digital and Information Officer for the healthcare sector and spearheaded digital strategies for brands like Crest, Oral-B, and Vicks. At P&G, he also developed the company’s first enterprise-wide data and analytics strategy and led teams that integrated digital tools into consumer experiences, supply chains, and product innovation.
David Speicher – Chief Technology Officer at SEMA
SEMA has appointed David Speicher as its first Chief Technology Officer, tasking him with developing and implementing a forward-looking technology strategy that aligns with the association’s business objectives. With over 20 years of experience in process automation, software development, and infrastructure design, Speicher has a proven track record of modernizing legacy systems and enhancing performance, most recently as CTO of Vital Incite. Reporting to SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola, Speicher will focus on driving innovation, enhancing member services, and positioning SEMA for sustained growth in the automotive aftermarket industry. Spagnola highlighted Speicher’s expertise in transforming systems into agile, scalable platforms.
Chamath Wijewardane – Chief Information Officer at Mississippi Hospital Association
The Mississippi Hospital Association (MHA) has named Chamath Wijewardane as its new Chief Information Officer, bringing over 20 years of healthcare IT leadership experience. Previously the CIO for the Mississippi Division of Medicaid, Wijewardane also held leadership roles at the University of Mississippi Medical Center, Baptist Memorial Healthcare Corporation, St. Dominic Hospital, and OCH Regional Medical Center. He is returning to MHA, where he previously served as Director of IT Solutions, enhancing statewide health information exchange capabilities and delivering innovative IT solutions for member hospitals. MHA President and CEO Richard Roberson praised Wijewardane’s expertise in healthcare IT and his dedication to improving patient outcomes.
Giuseppe Robbiano – Chief Information Officer at Atlas
Atlas Technical Consultants, Inc. (Atlas), a leader in infrastructure and environmental solutions, has named Giuseppe Robbiano as Chief Information Officer. With over 25 years of expertise in IT strategy, systems design, data analytics, and cybersecurity, Robbiano will oversee Atlas’ technology operations and drive the company’s IT innovation. Previously Vice President of IT at Cooper Machinery Services, he has led global teams through major platform integrations. Robbiano’s leadership is expected to strengthen Atlas’ IT infrastructure, enhancing agility and service delivery as the company continues its growth trajectory.
Erik Nordin – Chief Technology Officer at Boston’s GBH
GBH has promoted Erik Nordin to Chief Technology Officer after serving as interim CTO since October 2023. A GBH team member since 2016, Nordin will lead the strategic design and management of the broadcaster’s enterprise-wide technology infrastructure, overseeing teams across Engineering, Product, Design, and Software Engineering to support GBH’s mission. With prior experience in business analysis and project management at John Hancock and Bank of America, Nordin’s promotion follows a year of key leadership changes at GBH.
Jennifer Wendel – Chief Information Officer at The Department of Health and Human Services
The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has appointed Jennifer Wendel as its permanent Chief Information Officer. Wendel, who has served as acting CIO since December 2023, oversees IT systems and security for HHS’s 83,000 employees and manages a $9.5 billion IT portfolio, advancing policies and strategic investments to support the department’s mission of enhancing public health. With nearly 30 years at the FBI, where she progressed from forensic DNA expert to acting Deputy CIO, Wendel brings extensive expertise in IT governance, cybersecurity, and innovation to her leadership at HHS.
Brian Sawyer – Chief Information Officer at EyeCare Partners
EyeCare Partners LLC has appointed Brian Sawyer as Chief Information Officer, a role he has held on an interim basis since September. Reporting to CFO Joel Day, Sawyer will oversee IT strategy, operations, and resources, focusing on leveraging technology to enhance efficiency, scalability, and patient care. Since joining the company in 2020, he has played a key role in developing the proprietary E360+ PM/EMR platform and transforming digital systems. With over 25 years of experience in enterprise digital transformations across healthcare, retail, and travel, Sawyer will align technology with strategic goals, using data, cloud platforms, and digital tools to streamline operations and improve experiences for patients and employees.
Edmundo Valdez – Chief Technology Officer at U.S. Century Bank
U.S. Century Bank has announced the promotion of Edmundo Valdez, previously Senior Vice President and IT Director, to Chief Technology Officer. With over 20 years of experience in financial information systems, including roles at Gibraltar Private Bank & Trust and BMI Financial Group, Valdez now oversees all technical operations and leads the bank’s IT strategy team. In his role, he focuses on safeguarding customer information, managing fintech partnerships to enhance user experience, and ensuring technology initiatives align with the bank’s strategic goals.
Renana Friedlich – Chief Information Security Officer at LPL Financial
LPL Financial LLC, a leader in the wealth management industry, has named Renana Friedlich as Executive Vice President and Chief Information Security Officer. With over 20 years of cross-sector cybersecurity experience, Friedlich will oversee LPL’s cybersecurity strategy, protecting its IT infrastructure, networks, and data. Reporting to Greg Gates, Chief Technology and Information Officer, she joins from PayPal, where she was Deputy CISO and Senior Director of Cyber Threat Management, and previously held roles at EY and in the military.
Ryan Weeks – Chief Information Security Officer at Vimeo
Vimeo, the leading platform for professional video creators, has announced the appointment of Ryan Weeks as Chief Information Security Officer. Weeks will oversee Vimeo’s security, compliance, and risk management functions, furthering the company’s mission to provide a trusted and secure video experience for its global user base. He brings nearly 20 years of information security expertise to Vimeo. Before joining, he served as CISO at Datto, Inc., where he established and scaled the company’s security program. He also contributed significantly to the broader cybersecurity community, including working with the Ransomware Task Force to mitigate ransomware risks.
Mike Goodwin – Chief Information Officer at P10
P10 (PX) has appointed Mike Goodwin as Chief Information Officer, effective immediately. In his new role, Goodwin will lead P10’s data, technology, and infrastructure functions, driving key initiatives such as data aggregation, performance metrics, and the strategic integration of artificial intelligence across the company’s platform. He brings extensive experience from his previous position as Chief Technology Officer and Chief Information Security Officer at a private equity real estate investment firm.
Nate Wiger – Chief Technology Officer at Pipe
Pipe has appointed Nate Wiger as Chief Technology Officer to lead its technology strategy and innovation efforts. With 25 years in the tech industry, Wiger has held leadership roles at Intuit, Amazon, AWS, and PlayStation. At Intuit, he led the development of mobile-first, AI-driven experiences for TurboTax, enabling users to complete taxes in just minutes, and at Amazon, he spearheaded engineering for Amazon Fresh Ordering and founded the Amazon San Diego engineering site, growing it to hundreds of engineers. Wiger’s expertise in scaling technology platforms positions him to drive Pipe’s mission of delivering innovative financial solutions for SMBs.
Joey Ricard – Chief Technology Officer at Blue Ridge Capital
Blue Ridge Capital Fund, a leader in real estate investments focused on high-growth, dental-anchored properties, has named Joey Ricard as Chief Technology Officer to drive its technological and operational innovation. Ricard will leverage advanced technologies like AI, big data, and predictive analytics to optimize property acquisitions, streamline leasing operations, and deliver superior value to investors. With a career marked by pioneering achievements, including developing proprietary real estate investment software, mentoring startups at Google Launchpad, and creating Pied Parker, a patented blockchain-based parking system, Ricard is expected to bring unmatched expertise in data-driven solutions.
John Arnott – Chief Technology Officer at Ad Astra
Ad Astra has appointed John Arnott as Chief Technology Officer, bringing over 25 years of experience in digital transformation and AI implementation, including his recent role as CEO of C1M.ai. Arnott will spearhead the development of Ad Astra’s proprietary AI platform aimed at transforming cross-cultural communication. “I’m thrilled to lead our journey as an AI-powered technology company,” Arnott said, highlighting his commitment to creating scalable AI solutions that enable clients to bridge cultural and linguistic divides.
Anand Kangala – Chief Information Officer at Trex Company
Trex Company, Inc., the world’s largest manufacturer of wood-alternative decking and railing, has appointed Dr. Anand Kangala as Vice President and Chief Information Officer to lead global IT functions and enterprise technology strategy. Dr. Kangala brings extensive experience from leadership roles at Home Depot, Edward Jones, and IBM, where he drove digital transformation and data-driven strategies. Trex CFO Brenda Lovcik highlighted his expertise in aligning technology with business objectives to fuel growth and enhance customer experiences.
Brian McKee – Chief Information Officer for the City and County of Honolulu
Mayor Rick Blangiardi has appointed Brian McKee as Chief Information Officer and Director of the Department of Information Technology (DIT) for the City and County of Honolulu. McKee, a seasoned IT leader with nearly 15 years of experience in the governmental and utility sectors, including roles with the City of Sacramento and Honolulu Board of Water Supply, will lead efforts to modernize city services for greater transparency, efficiency, and responsiveness. His appointment follows a year-long national search to replace longtime CIO Mark Wong, who retires after 12 years of transformative service.
Ryan Smith – Chief Digital and Information Officer at Intermountain Health
Intermountain Health has named Ryan Smith as Chief Digital and Information Officer. Smith, a seasoned healthcare technology leader, returns to Intermountain, where he previously served as CIO from 2020 to 2022, and brings experience from executive roles at Health Catalyst, Banner Health, and Graphite Health, where he is currently interim president and CEO. Reporting to Chief Strategy Officer Dan Liljenquist, Smith will oversee Digital Technology Services (DTS), including operations, digital services, data services, clinical informatics, IT, and information security. CEO Rob Allen praised Smith’s ability to navigate healthcare complexities and lead innovations to enhance the patient and caregiver experience.
Lester Godsey – Chief Information Security Officer at Arizona State University
Arizona State University (ASU) has appointed Lester Godsey as Chief Information Security Officer. An ASU alumnus, Godsey began his IT career at the university and returns with nearly 30 years of experience, including a decade as CISO for the City of Mesa and Maricopa County. Reporting to CIO Lev Gonick, Godsey will oversee ASU’s cyber and information security strategy, ensuring a secure digital ecosystem that supports the university’s research, innovation, and learning. Known for his expertise in cybersecurity, data management, and organizational strategy, as well as his passion for teaching, Godsey expressed excitement about contributing to ASU’s mission of driving impactful change on a national and global scale.
Michael Reinhold – Chief Information Security Officer at Arch Systems
Arch Systems has named Michael Reinhold as its Chief Information Security Officer. In his new role, Reinhold will lead efforts to secure the company’s digital assets and information channels against evolving cyber threats. Formerly the CISO at RELI Group, he brings over two decades of experience in cybersecurity and technology leadership, including 13 years in senior roles at the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. Reinhold aims to leverage his expertise to deliver secure and efficient solutions to the federal government.
Viral Tripathi – Chief Information Officer at C1
C1 has appointed Viral Tripathi as Chief Information Officer, bringing over two decades of experience in IT and technology leadership from organizations like Ascendion, Collabera, KPMG, and the Associated Press. Recognized as Tech Executive of the Year by the Stevie Awards, Tripathi will focus on accelerating innovation, increasing productivity, and developing solutions that drive business value and create new revenue opportunities. His leadership will play a pivotal role in advancing C1’s mission to deliver innovative, connected human experiences.
George Molnar – Chief Technology Officer at SpectraRep
SpectraRep, a leading provider of datacasting solutions, has named George Molnar as Chief Technology Officer. With 25 years of experience in crisis and emergency management technologies, Molnar will lead the expansion of SpectraRep’s nationwide public alerting datacasting network, which supports public safety and government communications. Molnar’s background includes senior roles at WTOP Washington, D.C., and PBS’s WARN Project, where he spearheaded technical innovations for emergency alert systems.
Damian Laviolette – Chief Information Officer at OnPoint Community Credit Union
OnPoint Community Credit Union has promoted Damian Laviolette to Senior Vice President and Chief Information Officer, where he will lead technology and digital banking initiatives to enhance member services and strengthen cybersecurity. Laviolette, who joined OnPoint in 2022 as Vice President and Chief Information Security Officer, brings over 30 years of IT and cybersecurity experience, including roles at Webster Bank, Umpqua Bank, and 20 years in the U.S. Army Signal Corps.
Ananth Ramkrishnan – Chief Information Officer at WellBe Senior Medical
WellBe Senior Medical has appointed Ananth Ramkrishnan as Chief Information Officer, bringing extensive expertise in healthcare technology and innovation to the leadership team. Ramkrishnan has held pivotal roles in value-based healthcare organizations, including as CIO at Zing Health and as the first Chief Technology Officer at Landmark Health, where he built technology solutions to support growth. Most recently, he served as an operating partner at Rubicon Founders. At WellBe, Ramkrishnan will leverage his experience to drive technological advancements that enhance patient care and operational efficiency.
Kevin Cusimano – Chief Information Officer at the City of Carmel
The City of Carmel has appointed Kevin Cusimano as its new Chief Information Officer. With extensive experience in IT leadership, data analytics, and governance, Cusimano will lead the city’s technology initiatives, overseeing enterprise systems to enhance operations and support strategic goals. Previously, he held leadership roles in healthcare and higher education, including serving as Executive Director at Indiana University Health. Cusimano, who holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Indianapolis and an MBA from Anderson University, expressed his commitment to leveraging technology to strengthen Carmel’s infrastructure for businesses and residents.
Scott Gilreath – Chief Information Officer at the University of Alaska Southeast
Scott Gilreath has been appointed Chief Information Officer for the University of Alaska Southeast, a public institution focused on academic excellence and research, serving communities across Southeast Alaska. With over 20 years of leadership experience in IT strategy and operations, Gilreath brings expertise in data analytics, digital transformation, and aligning technology with institutional goals. Previously, he served as Vice President for Digital Transformation and CIO at Indiana Wesleyan University and held technology leadership roles at Saint Joseph’s College and Excelsior College. Gilreath’s extensive experience is expected to be pivotal in advancing the university’s technology and data capabilities.
Maria Demaree – Chief Information Officer at Lockheed Martin
Maria Demaree has been named Senior Vice President of Enterprise Business and Digital Transformation and Chief Information Officer at Lockheed Martin, effective January 2024. With over 34 years at the company, she currently serves as Vice President and General Manager of National Security Space, leading a $6.6 billion portfolio and a workforce of over 8,000 employees. A recognized expert in national security and space systems, Demaree has driven innovation in AI/ML, autonomous systems, and software-defined satellite architectures.
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