Whether fortifying cybersecurity defenses or navigating the AI onslaught, having an adept technology leader at the helm can make all the difference. Top-tier executives balance expertise, passion, and a commitment to innovation for continued success.
Join us in celebrating these technology leaders for their outstanding contributions to the industry, and extend our best wishes as they embrace their new roles.
Jason Strle – Chief Information Officer at Discover Financial Services
Discover Financial Services (DFS), a digital banking and payment services company and one of the most recognized brands in U.S. financial services, has appointed Jason Strle as Chief Information Officer. As CIO, Strle will be in charge of implementing cutting-edge technology across the organization and continuing to deliver consistent and more secure products for customers. Strle brings over 20 years of industry experience and joins Discover from Wells Fargo, where he served as EVP & Group CIO of its payments, virtual solutions, innovation, and community banking business units and more recently oversaw enterprise functions. Technology is the foundation of every element of our digital banking and payments strategy, allowing us to provide innovative solutions and a superior customer experience,” said Roger Hochschild, CEO and president of Discover. “Jason’s vast experience with a product-centric model and agile way of working will help grow, improve, and expand our digital banking and payments capabilities.
Tom Cullen – Chief Information Officer at Chobani
Chobani, the modern food company originally known for its Greek yogurt, appointed Tom Cullen as Chief Information Officer. As CIO, Cullen will be responsible for the design and implementation of best-in-class information systems and technical capabilities to power efficient operations and innovation to ensure that Chobani has a competitive edge in the market. Cullen brings over 25 years of technology and operations leadership experience, having worked with an impressive array of companies, including Electronic Arts, Peet’s Coffee & Tea, Driscoll’s, and most recently, Corsair, a leading global developer and manufacturer of high-performance gaming and streaming gear, where he served as CIO.
Lúcia Soares – Chief Information Officer and Head of Technology Transformation at Carlyle
Carlyle, a global investment firm with deep industry expertise that deploys private capital across the global private equity, global credit, and global investment solutions business segments, promoted Lúcia Soares to Chief Information Officer and Head of Technology Transformation. In this capacity, Soares will spearhead the firm’s global technology strategy and lead the Global Technology Solutions organization. Moreover, she will dedicate effort toward business process transformation, digitization, automation, and data innovation for the firm. Soares brings over 25 years of technology leadership experience, having worked with companies including SBI and Company, Johnson & Johnson, and Health2047 Inc. before joining Carlyle as Managing Director, Portfolio CIO Americas in 2019. “I am honored to take on this new role at Carlyle and work collaboratively across the firm to optimize the use of technology as a competitive advantage. Over the course of my career, I have seen first-hand the impact technological transformation can have on company results. I look forward to inspiring a culture of technology adoption that drives greater efficiencies and innovation that we believe will ultimately maximize value for the firm,” said Soares in a release.
Justin Dean – Chief Technology Officer at DRINKS
DRINKS, the pioneering and leading operating system for alcohol e-commerce, selected Justin Dean as Chief Technology Officer. As CTO, Dean will be responsible for accelerating the optimization, development, and adoption of DRINKS technology, including the DRINKS Shopify App, WaaS®, and its proprietary AI-suite, PAIR (Predictive Artificial Intelligence Retailing). Dean brings over 30 years of industry experience to the role, having worked with companies such as B3 Corp, Shopzilla, Ticketmaster, and most recently, Weedmaps, where he served as Chief Technology Officer & Chief Information Officer. I love what DRINKS stands for at its core – using technology to revolutionize an entire industry,” said Dean. “Zac and his team have built an incredible foundation that is changing how alcohol is bought and sold online, and I look forward to shaping its continued evolution and expansion.”
Paul Tuscano – Chief Digital Officer at KFC U.S.
KFC is one of the world’s most popular chicken restaurant chains and a division of Yum! Brands, the world’s largest restaurant company, appointed Paul Tuscano as Chief Digital Officer of KFC U.S. on August 1st. As CDO, Tuscano will drive digital priorities for KFC U.S. by leading their digital roadmap and increasing the company’s capabilities to support the customer better. Tuscano’s extensive background includes technology leadership roles with Motorola, Nextel, CTIA, Verizon Wireless, and Marriott International, where he spent seven years working in product management for the company’s digital organization, finishing his tenure as Vice President of Onsite Digital and Mobile Products. In a LinkedIn post celebrating his new role, Tuscano said, “I am very excited to announce that I will be joining Yum! Brands as their Chief Digital Officer for KFC US. This is an exciting time at KFC US, as I will be joining a great new leadership team that will rejuvenate this iconic brand! I am greatly honored to be given this opportunity and look forward to many successes with my new team.”
Matt Emmerich – Senior Vice President and Chief Information Officer at Ingersoll Rand Inc.
Ingersoll Rand Inc. (IR), a global provider of mission-critical flow creation and industrial solutions, named Matt Emmerich as Senior Vice President and Chief Information Officer. In this capacity, Emmerich will be responsible for leading the company’s global information technology organization across infrastructure, technology operations, applications, and information security. Emmerich joins the company from Polaris Inc., where he spent nearly 19 years driving technology initiatives, finishing his time as Vice President of Global Digital & Information Technology. “Matt has a unique background at the convergence of business and technology,” said Vicente Reynal, Chairman, President, and Chief Executive Officer of Ingersoll. “His established track record in driving transformation while maintaining seamless daily technology operations makes him uniquely qualified to help us solidify IT as a competitive advantage within Ingersoll Rand.”
Heather Abbott – Chief Information Officer for the State of West Virginia
Heather Abbott was promoted to Chief Information Officer for the State of West Virginia. Abbott previously served as the state’s Chief Operations Officer for the last five years and is experienced in multiple areas of IT, having assisted with various IT operations throughout the government. These aren’t the only roles she’s held with the state. In fact, Abbott has served in a multitude of technology roles with the State of West Virginia over her 27-year career. “I’m proud to appoint Heather to this role, and I am confident she will do a wonderful job,” Governor Justice said.
Matthew Kull – Chief Information and Digital Officer at Inova Health System
Inova Health System, Northern Virginia’s leading nonprofit healthcare provider, named Matthew Kull Chief Information and Digital Officer. As CIDO, Kull will be responsible for spearheading digital health innovation and improved care delivery through IT to patients, team members, and the community for Inova as well as working on developing the health system’s overall technology strategy. Kull joins the health system from Cleveland Clinic, where he served as Chief Information Officer and was responsible for all operational functions across Digital, Clinical, Infrastructure, and M&A technology domains, according to his LinkedIn. “Matt is a recognized technology leader who brings with him a wealth of experience and expertise in global organizational technology, digital innovation, and operations that will benefit Inova, our team members, and patients,” said Inova CEO and President Dr. J. Stephen Jones in a statement. “His leadership will undoubtedly drive our digital transformation initiatives forward, and we are thrilled to welcome him to the Inova team.”
Amaya Capellan – Chief Information Officer for the State of Pennsylvania
Amaya Capellan was named Chief Information Officer for the State of Pennsylvania. Capellan joins the state from Comcast, where she spent the past six years in various technology leadership positions, ending with Vice President of Product Management. While at Comcast, she notably helped to launch their Xfinity App and Xfinity Mobile service. Prior to Comcast, she served in various positions with FCB Global, Booz & Company, and PeopleLinx, among other companies. “I look forward to collaborating across our customer agencies, the Governor’s Office, CODE PA, and the tech community to transform the technology systems that support the Commonwealth’s operations and deliver exceptional digital services for the people of Pennsylvania,” Capellan said in a press release.
Tiffany Kane – Vice President and Chief Information Officer at recteq
recteq, a leading designer, marketer, and direct seller of premium pellet grills and outdoor lifestyle products, named Tiffany Kane, Vice President, and Chief Information Officer. Kane joins the company from Levolor, where she served as Head of Technology, VP IT & e-Commerce. Prior to that, she served in technology leadership roles with companies such as The Home Depot, Verizon Telematics Inc., and W.C. Bradley Co., to name a few. She brings an impressive track record of building innovative solutions using technology to transform the business and increase profits by rebuilding development teams, leading Agile and digital transformations, creating scalable delivery models, and drastically improving the relationship of IT with the business. In a recent LinkedIn post celebrating her new role, Kane said, “I am excited to share that I have started a new position as VP and CIO at recteq. I am on day five and can’t thank the team enough for being so accommodating and welcoming!”
Yonesy Núñez – Chief Information Security Officer at The Depository Trust & Clearing Corporation
The Depository Trust & Clearing Corporation (DTCC), the premier post-trade market infrastructure for the global financial services industry, appointed Yonesy Núñez as Chief Information Security Officer. As CISO, Núñez will lead Information Security and Technology Risk Management as the firm advances its technological modernization efforts. He joins DTCC from Jack Henry & Associates, where he served as CISO. Prior to that, he held key positions in cyber and information security at Wells Fargo, Citi, Price Waterhouse Coopers, The New School, and Pall Corporation, to name a few. In a LinkedIn post about his new role, Núñez said “A heartfelt thank you to everyone for the warm welcome I’ve received at DTCC! This immediately speaks volumes about the vibrant culture here, and I am thrilled to start collaborating with my new team, our partners, and our valued customers. Joining DTCC, a standout leader known for its dedication to excellence, innovation, and integrity, is truly an honor.”
Priya Almelkar – Senior Vice President, IT and Chief Information Officer at Wolfspeed
Priya Almelkar has been promoted to Senior Vice President, IT and Chief Information Officer at Wolfspeed Inc. (WOLF), the global leader in silicon carbide technology. In her previous role as Vice President of IT Manufacturing Operations, Almelkar drove initiatives around the company’s transition to automation, enabling improved tracking of customer deliveries, valuable market and competitor insights, and greater operational efficiency. “Wolfspeed’s ambitious growth strategy presents ample opportunities to improve IT process efficiency and compliance,” said Almelkar. “I am thrilled to continue collaborating with such knowledgeable and entrepreneurial colleagues to strengthen our digital footprint and advance our mission of energy conservation through silicon carbide.” Prior to joining Wolfspeed, Almelkar served in technology leadership roles with GlobalFoundries, Payless ShoeSource, and Sprint.
Barry Cotter – Chief Information Officer at FastTrack
FastTrack, a leader in the Life & Disability Insurance vertical, announced Barry Cotter as its new Chief Information Officer. As CIO, Cotter will be responsible for executing the company’s technology roadmap and helping to drive its digital strategy, with added focus on optimizing its IT infrastructure and leading new initiatives to improve operational efficiency and productivity. Before joining FastTrack, Cotter served with companies including Croix Bleue du Quebec, ClaimVantage, Majesco, and GoContractor. “FastTrack extends its warmest welcome to Barry and expresses our excitement in embarking on this new chapter of technological advancement. We firmly believe that Barry’s exceptional leadership skills, industry knowledge, and commitment to excellence will greatly benefit our organization and position us at the forefront of technological innovation in the Life and Disability claims vertical,” said Michael Fredkin, President of FastTrack.
Jason James – Chief Information Officer at Aptos
Aptos, the global leader in unified commerce solutions for retailers, named Jason James as Chief Information Officer. Jason joins the company with over two decades of experience in cloud operations, cybersecurity, IT infrastructure, and digital transformation. He’s held key roles with a number of companies, including Servigistics, PRGX Global Inc., EarthLink Internet, Optima Healthcare Solutions, and Net Health, where he served as Chief Information Officer. As CIO at Net Health, Jason led the strategy, development, and digital transformation of all IT applications, remote work strategy, data management/modernization, cybersecurity, infrastructure, IT Service Desk, DevOps, SREs, DBAs, FinOps, and operations. Jason earned his Bachelor of Science from Oregon State University and his Master of Applied Information Management from the University of Oregon.
Jeff Knowlton – Chief Information Officer at Sonesta International Hotels Corporation
Sonesta International Hotels Corporation (Sonesta), the 8th largest hotel company in the U.S., has appointed Jeff Knowlton as Chief Information Officer. Knowlton brings 25 years of experience building and leading successful IT organizations within the hospitality industry. “As an accomplished technology executive, Jeff has the comprehensive experience that we believe will fuel Sonesta’s growth and drive innovation in our business,” said John Murray, President and CEO at Sonesta. He joins Sonesta from Pursuit Collection, a Denver-based hospitality and attractions company, where he served as Vice President of Information Technology and built the IT department to help support the company’s growth. Prior to Pursuit Collection, Knowlton served in technology leadership roles with Sage Hospitality, Grand Geneva Resort, and Vail Resorts, among other companies.
Warren Sergeant – Chief Information Officer at Health Care and Rehabilitation Services
Health Care and Rehabilitation Services (HCRS), southeastern Vermont’s non-profit community mental health agency, recently promoted Warren Sergeant to Chief Information Officer. Sergeant originally joined HCRS as a Systems Analyst over 21 years ago. He was then promoted to Information Technology Manager in 2004 and subsequently to Director of IT in 2014 before eventually earning the CIO role. “We are delighted to be able to recognize Warren’s significant efforts to advance HCRS’ computer systems, online security, detailed reporting, and dedicated staff support through this promotion,” said Anne Bilodeau, HCRS Chief Operating Officer.
Shridhar Venkatraman – Chief Technology Officer at Virtana
Virtana, the leading provider of applied hybrid IT infrastructure monitoring and observability solutions, named Shridhar Venkatraman as Chief Technology Officer. Venkatraman recently served as co-founder of OpsCruise, a company providing trailblazing AI-powered Kubernetes and Cloud-native observability solutions, which was acquired by Virtana in June. Prior to that, he served with and founded a number of companies, including NeemTree Technologies, Reliance Communications, ESQ Business Services, Inc., RetailWave Technologies, Intenate LLC, and The Fabric. “I am glad to join Virtana and be part of an organization with incredible technological capabilities and a remarkable leadership team,” said Shridhar Venkatraman, newly appointed CTO of Virtana. “Virtana’s commitment to innovation and its focus on delivering cutting-edge solutions for hybrid IT infrastructure & application management and observability is inspiring. I look forward to accelerating Virtana’s technical capabilities and working alongside the talented team to drive the next phase of growth and success.”
Chad LeMaire – Chief Security Officer at Echelon Risk + Cyber
Echelon Risk + Cyber, a cybersecurity professional services firm built on the belief that privacy and security are basic human rights, appointed Chad LeMaire as Chief Security Officer. LeMaire served in the U.S. Air Force for 31 years and brings a multitude of experiences within cybersecurity, including strategy, secure networking, intrusion response, vulnerability assessments, and risk assessments. He holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology, a master’s in information resources management, and a master’s degree in strategic studies. In a recent LinkedIn post, LeMaire said, “I am very excited to announce that I am the Chief Security Officer at Echelon Risk + Cyber! I am honored to be on this diverse team of phenomenal people with outstanding capabilities and talent! Echelon has a superb culture, core values, and mission.”
Gaudy Jandron – Chief Information Officer at US Signal
US Signal, a leading provider of network and data center services, named Gaudy Jandron as Chief Information Officer. She brings over 25 years of experience to the role and joins the company from EnergyUnited, where she served as Executive Vice President of Information Technology. Before that, Jandron worked with companies including NorthState Technology Solutions, Novant Health, Belk, LPL Financial, and Carolinas Healthcare System, among others. In a LinkedIn post celebrating her role with US Signal, Jandron said, “I am thrilled to join US Signal, a leading technology company committed to growth, operational excellence, and innovation. I look forward to collaborating with extraordinarily talented professionals who have a shared passion for pushing boundaries and crafting solutions that empower organizations of all sizes and across diverse industries to thrive in today’s highly competitive and dynamic market. The collective drive to create impactful and transformative solutions for our clients resonates deeply with me, and I am eager to contribute my skills to this shared mission.”
Scott Bader – Chief Information Officer at Five Star Bank
Scott Bader has been promoted to Chief Information Officer at Five Star Bank. As CIO, Bader will be responsible for “the execution and evolution of the Bank’s comprehensive information and cybersecurity program, as well as compliance with statutory and regulatory requirements regarding information access, security, and privacy,” according to a press release. Bader joined the bank in 2008 and has been moving through the ranks ever since, with his most recent role as Senior Vice President and Technology Services Director, where he helped significantly with the bank’s digital transformation efforts. Prior to joining Five Star Bank, Bader served in progressive technology roles at retailer Chico’s FAS, Inc.
Marshall Erwin – Chief Information Security Officer at Fastly
Fastly, Inc. (FSLY), a leader in global edge cloud platforms, appointed Marshall Erwin as Chief Information Security Officer. Before joining Fastly, Erwin was the Chief Security Officer at Mozilla, where he was a key player in building the company’s reputation as a strong defender of its end-user. Prior to that, he served in the US intelligence community, where he served as the cybersecurity and counterterrorism advisor on the Senate Homeland Security and Government Affairs Committee. “Fastly is focused on building a better, safer internet and that means ensuring security for our customers, our end-users, our platforms, and our own enterprise,” said Nightingale. “Marshall brings deep security operations, product development, and trust and privacy knowledge to enhance our ability to make online experiences safer for everyone.”
Prashant Budhale – Chief Technology Officer at Modern Restaurant Concepts
Modern Restaurant Concepts, a leading fast-casual restaurant platform comprised of the QDOBA and Modern Market Eatery brands, selected Prashant Budhale as Chief Technology Officer. Budhale brings over 28 years of technology leadership to the role, having worked with companies such as Capgemini, Fujitsu, and Yum! Brands, and most recently, SONIC Drive-In, where he served as Head of Technology and was responsible for the vision, development, and implementation of all of the company’s technology initiatives. “We are excited for Prashant to join the MRC team,” said John Cywinski, CEO of Modern Restaurant Concepts. “I view technology as a foundational enabler of all that we do in the restaurant business, from a guest, team member, and corporate enterprise perspective. Prashant will lead our strategy to drive technology as a powerful brand differentiator, and he will be a terrific collaborator with our existing leadership team as well as our franchise partners moving forward.”
Michael Lyons – Assistant Vice President and Chief Information Officer at Massachusetts Bay Community College
Massachusetts Bay Community College, an institution offering more than 70 programs of study and located in Wellesley Hills, MA, recently promoted Michael Lyons to Assistant Vice President and Chief Information Officer. Lyons worked for the college for nearly ten years as Director of Technical Services and Chief Information Officer until mid-2020 before taking a brief tenure at the University of Massachusetts Boston. He is a professional IT problem solver with over three decades of experience and is a highly effective higher education IT executive, project manager, and solutions engineer with a passion for education and mentoring.
Tony Opheim – Vice President and Chief Information Officer at Washington State University
Washington State University (WSU) recently named Tony Opheim Vice President and Chief Information Officer following a six-month stint in an interim capacity. Opheim kicked off his time with WSU in 2012 as Associate Vice President for Infrastructure and has provided immense value for the university ever since. Prior to joining WSU, Opheim led technology efforts at the University of Idaho. “Having grown up in land grant institutions and with this being what I wanted to do since I was 12, it’s an honor and a privilege to be in this position,” he said. “My organization and I are here to serve this vital institution, to make sure students are able to grow and thrive, as well as ensure instructional and research faculty have the tools and infrastructure they need to do their important work.”
Wayne Sadin – Chief Information Officer at PriceSmart
PriceSmart, Inc. (PSMT), which is headquartered in San Diego and owns and operates U.S.-style membership shopping warehouse clubs in Latin America and the Caribbean, announced Wayne Sadin as Chief Information Officer. As CIO, Sadin will be responsible for managing all aspects of the company’s technology systems, data management, cybersecurity, and digital innovation. He brings a “30-year IT career spanning Logistics, Financial Services, Energy, Healthcare, Manufacturing, Direct-Response Marketing, Construction, Consulting, and Technology. He’s been CIO, CTO, CDO, advisor to CEOs/Boards, Angel Investor, and Independent Director at firms ranging from start-ups to multinationals.” Some of the companies in which Sadin has led technology efforts at include Fifth Third Bank, Aegis Mortgage Company, Loomis US, and The Go Solution, among others.
Danny Rittman – Chief Information Security Officer at Avant Technologies, Inc.
Avant Technologies, Inc., an artificial intelligence technology company specializing in acquiring, creating, and developing innovative and advanced technologies utilizing artificial intelligence, selected Danny Rittman as Chief Information Security Officer. As CISO, Rittman will lead Avant’s technology risk management and information security, as well as implement an information security culture within the company and build and manage annual information security training at the corporate level. He brings over 25 years of experience in the IT space and joins the company from GBT Technologies, where he served as GBT’s Chief Technology Officer. “Danny is a deeply experienced technology leader with a proven track record of driving innovation and developing solutions with cybersecurity frameworks. As we continue to build a world-class organization, Danny will be instrumental in advancing our path forward in the AI sector by providing the expertise needed to protect the Company, our AI solutions, and our product pipeline,” said Avant’s Chief Operating Officer, Paul Averill.
Kelly McVeigh – Chief Information Officer at Cecil College
Cecil College, a comprehensive, open admission, learner-centered institution located in Northeast, Maryland, named Kelly McVeigh as Chief Information Officer. As CIO, McVeigh will support the college’s strategic initiatives by leading and further developing its technology solutions, information management, institutional research, and services. She brings over two decades of IT experience and joins the college from Delaware Technical Community College, where she served as Vice President for Information and Instructional Technology. “I’ve had the privilege of spending much of my career working at the intersection of teaching, learning, and technology. This has given me the ability to work with and learn from amazing faculty, student services professionals, instructional designers, administrators, and skilled technologists at two- and four-year institutions of higher education. I’m excited to bring this perspective to Cecil College to work collaboratively with students, faculty, and staff, support the distinct technology needs of credit and non-credit programs, and to leverage both data and technology to improve student success and organizational operations,” said McVeigh.
Kevin Paige – Chief Information Security Officer and VP of Product Strategy at Uptycs
Uptycs, provider of the first unified CNAPP and XDR platform, appointed Kevin Paige as Chief Information Security Officer and Vice President of Product Strategy. Paige, who was a former Uptycs customer, will leverage his 30 years of security experience to safeguard Uptycs employees and customers, as well as further accelerate product innovation in this dual role. Before joining the company, Paige served as Vice President and CISO at Flexport and has served in IT leadership roles with the U.S. Air Force, the U.S. Army, CACI International, iBASEt, Salesforce, MuleSoft, and xMatters. “Cybersecurity has become a complex, big data problem. Uptycs is extraordinary in its ability to help security teams leverage their security data to get the answers they need faster and reduce the time it takes them to fix a vulnerability or block or remove a threat. I’m excited to join the team to continue to drive product innovation and help organizations shift up their cybersecurity, said Paige.
Fredrick Lee – Chief Information Security Officer at Reddit
Reddit, a network of more than 100,000 communities where people can dive into anything through experiences built around their interests, hobbies, and passions, named Fredrick Lee Chief Information Security Officer. As CISO, Lee will be responsible for identifying and mitigating risks and challenges around information security, privacy, and compliance. “I believe Reddit uniquely helps its users build meaningful connections and conversations around the areas or interests they are most passionate about,” said Reddit’s new Chief Information Security Officer, Fredrick “Flee” Lee. “As Reddit grows, it is crucial that our security and trust systems remain resilient and agile to adapt to the ever-evolving threat landscape. I’m thrilled to be joining such an exciting platform, and looking forward to helping reinforce the platform’s existing safety infrastructure and cybersecurity defenses and continue advancing the systems that protect Redditors and their communities.” Lee brings more than 20 years of experience leading global information security and privacy efforts and joins the company from Gusto, where he served as Chief Security Officer and Head of IT. Prior to that, he served in key security leadership roles with organizations such as Square, NetSuite, Twilio, and Betfair, to name a few.
Ben Shepherd – Chief Information and Technology Officer at Puttshack
Puttshack, the world’s first and only upscale tech-infused mini golf experience featuring craft cocktails, local beers, and globally inspired dishes, recently promoted Ben Shepherd to Chief Information and Technology Officer. In this capacity, Shepherd will lead the company’s technology department forward and oversee all technical and business aspects of its technology strategy. Shepherd was originally hired as Puttshack’s Executive Vice President of Software Engineering & Architecture in 2021, where he managed the development of the company’s gaming software, information, and cloud architecture. “Puttshack’s proprietary cloud technology sets us above the rest of the industry, and I am ecstatic to work with our growing team as we continue to lead the competitive socializing sector,” said Shepherd. “Our use of technology as a key component in creating an unparalleled guest experience makes this an ideal opportunity to attract and build a top-level team to support our infrastructure as we grow rapidly.”
Jeffrey Goethals – Executive Vice President, Chief Information Officer at Centric Brands
Centric Brands LLC, a leading global lifestyle brand collective that has unparalleled expertise in product design, development and sourcing, retail and digital commerce, marketing, and brand building, named Jeffrey Goethals as Executive Vice President, Chief Information Officer. Goethals joins Centric Brands from Ross Stores, Inc., where he ended his 17-year tenure serving as SVP of Merchandise Operations, Technology & Insights. In this role, he “catapulted the organization forward both operationally and technologically with a Digital Merchandising Evolution, Micro Merchandising transformation, and cutting-edge automation and AI capabilities.” Prior to his time with Ross, he served in key technology leadership roles with IBM, PwC, and Toys “R” Us.
Anna Ransley – Chief Digital Information Officer at Quaker Houghton
Quaker Houghton (KWR), the global leader in industrial process fluids, appointed Anna Ransley as Chief Digital Information Officer. In this capacity, Ransley will be responsible for spearheading the company’s information technology organization and transforming its global digital strategy. She brings over two decades of industry experience and joins the company from Godiva Chocolatier, where she served as Chief Information Officer. Before that, Ransley served as Chief Information Officer and Vice President, Digital and Technology at Heineken USA. “Anna is a seasoned executive with valuable leadership experience across multiple industries, leading, transforming, and enhancing global IT organizations. I am pleased to welcome her to Quaker Houghton, where she will build on our existing capabilities and develop our digital roadmap, further enhancing our differentiated customer intimacy model,” stated Andy Tometich, Chief Executive Officer and President of Quaker Houghton.
Richard Butgereit – Chief Information Officer at Sanborn
The Sanborn Map Company, Inc (Sanborn), an innovator in the modern geospatial industry, delivering state-of-the-art mapping, visualization, and 3D solutions for customers worldwide, selected Richard Butgereit as Chief Information Officer. As CIO, Butgereit will oversee Sanborn’s Information Technology needs and be responsible for managing and implementing hardware and software technology as well as software development to assist with the company’s goals. Butgereit brings decades of IT leadership experience to the role, having served with the Florida Division of Emergency Management and the Geospatial Insurance Consortium. “Joining Sanborn is a great opportunity, and I am excited to work with the talented, highly experienced, and dedicated team in place here at Sanborn,” said Butgereit. “Sanborn is already an established leader in data acquisition and the creation of innovative geospatial tools and SAAS solutions that serve our customers, and with the addition of our AppGeo Division rounding out our complete geospatial solutions, I am looking forward to leading our IT strategy across the company to new heights.”
Steven Carroll – Chief Information Officer at Saint Leo University
Saint Leo University, one of the largest Catholic universities in the nation, named Steven Carroll as Chief Information Officer. As CIO, Carroll will be responsible for “overseeing the development and maintenance of IT infrastructure, systems, and applications, ensuring their optimal performance, security, and scalability.” This isn’t his first time with the university, though. Carroll earned his MBA in Information Security and Business from Saint Leo in 2009 and went on to serve in key technology leadership positions, ending his tenure as Associate Vice President and Chief Information Officer in 2016. Following that, he joined the University of Tampa and spearheaded IT operations for seven years up until July 2023.
Eugene Saksonov – Chief Technology Officer at Flores & Associates
Flores & Associates, a premier administrator of employer-sponsored reimbursement plans, appointed Eugene Saksonov as Chief Technology Officer. Saksonov brings over 30 years of industry experience, having driven technology initiatives at companies and organizations including such as Kronos Incorporated, FIS Healthcare Payment Solutions, Alegeus Technologies, and most recently, Hurdle, where he served as Chief Technology Officer. He earned his Master of Mathematics and Computer Science from V. N. Karazin Kharkiv National University in Ukraine and specializes in areas such as enterprise architecture, AI/ML-powered data analytics solutions, and security and compliance, to name a few.
Brian Benn – Vice President and Chief Information Officer at Clark Atlanta University
Clark Atlanta University, a comprehensive, private, urban, coeducational institution of higher education, selected Brian Benn as Chief Information Officer. Benn brings three decades of industry experience and is a motivated, innovative, and dynamic IT executive with expertise in building and executing global strategies to maximize productivity, profitability, and long-term results in alignment with business objectives. Prior to joining Clark Atlanta University, Benn served as Chief Information Officer with the Atlanta Housing Authority, where he led the agency’s digital transformation through various initiatives. “Brian Benn is bringing to the University an incredible wealth of knowledge and connections throughout the Atlanta IT ecosystem,” said CAU President George French, Jr. “He is passionate about bridging the digital divide not only as a professional but also as a servant leader. We are grateful that he will carry out his personal mission to mentor and empower others to maximize their potential both individually and collectively at our great institution.”
Tommy Meek – Chief Information Officer at PGA TOUR Superstore
PGA TOUR Superstore, golf and tennis’ leading equipment and apparel destination across the United States selected Tommy Meek as Chief Information Officer. Meek joins the company from The Aaron’s Company, Inc., where he served as Chief Information Officer and oversaw the operations of the enterprise technology solutions organization. Aside from Aaron’s, Meek has also served in key positions for Hewlett-Packard, Novartis, and Cbeyond over his 25-year career in the technology space. Meek brings an “extensive record of achievement in delivering technology innovation, client satisfaction and smooth operations in fast-paced, high-volume environments,” as stated in his LinkedIn. He has also been recognized for his strengths in achieving success with new products and technologies and is highly capable of building and propelling teams to grow and excel.
Steven Shi – Chief Technology Officer at Pager
Pager, a leading virtual care, navigation, and collaboration platform, appointed Steven Shi as Chief Technology Officer. As CTO, he will develop and implement the company’s technology strategy and capabilities, including product engineering, platform engineering, architecture, security, and corporate IT, and lead the company’s continuing initiatives to transform the consumer healthcare experience for its 23 million members. Shi joins Pager from Vault Health, where he served as CTO and led IT, security, engineering, and site reliability functions. “To have someone with Steven’s depth of expertise and industry knowledge join our team is a powerful endorsement of what we’ve already achieved as well as the new transformative technologies we’re currently developing,” said Walter Jin, CEO and Chairman of Pager. “Steven’s leadership will play a pivotal role in improving and expanding our all-in-one care experience as we continue to develop innovative solutions that address two of the most challenging issues in healthcare: fragmentation and engagement.”
Adarryl Roberts – Chief Information Officer at the Defense Logistics Agency
Adarryl Roberts has been promoted to Chief Information Officer at the Defense Logistics Agency, the nation’s combat logistics support agency. Roberts has been with the DLA for more than a decade, starting as a Portfolio Manager for Enterprise Sourcing, Medical, and Contingency in 2012, followed by an 8-year tenure as the Director of the Defense Business Systems Center of Excellence and an eventual elevation to Program Executive Officer before becoming CIO. He is passionate about public service and making “the world better than when we eventually leave it and support others with the opportunity to be great contributors to our society,” as stated in a recent LinkedIn post. Roberts earned his Bachelor’s of Business Administration from Fayetteville State University in North Carolina.
Dean Brown – Chief Operations and Technology Officer at Blue Ridge Bank
Blue Ridge Bank, a leading community bank that supports families and businesses through a wide range of financial services, appointed Dean Brown as Chief Operations and Technology Officer. In this capacity, Brown will deliver executive leadership to the information technology and bank operations functions. “Dean brings years of experience aligning business and technology strategies which we will certainly capitalize on. He’s a respected leader in the field of information technology with much of his career rooted in the financial industry,” said Billy Beale, Chief Executive Officer at Blue Ridge Bank. He brings over 30 years of technology leadership experience and has served with companies such as Revolution Money, Advance America, Intersections Inc., and Atlantic Union Bank.
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