The ITRG CIO Leadership Awards
Celebrating top performing technology leaders from the CIO Business Vision program.
Register for 2018Participate in the 2018 CIO Awards
The Info-Tech CIO Awards recognize CIOs who receive the highest satisfaction scores on Business Vision. CIO Business Vision is a powerful tool that formalizes IT feedback, helps kickstart IT strategy and delivers a standard to measure great CIOs.
Be eligible for 2018 by completing Business Vision before August 1st.
*IT leaders who complete Business Vision from August 2, 2017 - August 1, 2018 will be entered into the 2018 CIO Awards. Contact your rep for more info.
2016 Enterprise Winners
1
Steve Pilkey
National Manager, IT
Toyota Canada Inc.
1 | Steve Pilkey
Industry: Automotive
Location: Toronto, ON
Key Projects of Last Year
Several projects were completed last year, most notably our implementation of a loyalty program in partnership with Aeroplan. With greater knowledge of our current and prospective customers, we are now able to customize offerings to best suit their needs. We also implemented a new Intranet which has greatly improved internal communication and collaboration. A lot of focus was placed on OCM related to the introduction of the new Intranet which was a key component of this project’s success.
Upcoming Projects
A number of projects are currently underway including a major Application Modernization program with initial focus on replacing the majority of our legacy applications with a modern ERP. We are also actively working on a Connected Vehicle initiative and a CRM implementation to improve communications between our head-office, field associates and dealers.
2
Jason Landrum
Chief Information Officer
Sedgwick
2 | Jason Landrum
Industry: Insurance, Financial Services
Location: Memphis, TN
Key Projects of Last Year
We leveraged web service integration to create a seamless user experience for our internal customers using two of our key platforms. The users felt this was one of the greatest technology deliverables in many years due to the time savings in their workflows. In addition, we made great strides in 2015 standardizing and simplifying our unified communication experience. This helped our customers to more easily communicate with each other.
Upcoming Projects
We are currently implementing an industry leading ERP solution to help provide robust and automated functionality to our finance customers. We are also developing revolutionary ideas for rethinking the claims process and taking a compassionate approach for consumers which we believe will significantly impact the industry we serve. Another upcoming project is Business America, which is our initiative to drive a more efficient process to serve clients of all sizes with the same high level of service as our traditional fortune 500 client base.
3
Leo Sharum
Vice President & Chief Information Officer
ArcBest Technologies
3 | Leo Sharum
Industry: Transportation/Logistics
Location: Fort Smith, AR
Key Projects of Last Year
Modernized the management of ArcBest’s application portfolio, including: launching a portfolio management methodology, bimodal-IT strategy (adaptive to short-term iterative projects and long-term larger-scale initiatives) and augmenting current capabilities; New leadership positions that supported, managed and proactively advanced technical solutions in support of the business while not losing sight of the following major projects: website re-architecture, CRM research, and enterprise quotations platform.
Upcoming Projects
Enhancements to ArcBest’s application portfolio continues with the following: enterprise portfolio management and project management disciplines; implementation of a modernized mobile field operations platform; roll-out of an enterprise CRM system; roll-out of abf.com; implementation of an enterprise performance management system; overhaul of HR's self-service platform; integration of ABF Logistics and Bear Transportation's logistics platforms; and implementation of an enterprise transportation management system.
4
Todd Finders
CIO, VP of Information Technology
Emerson Climate Technologies
4 | Todd Finders
Industry: Manufacturing
Location: St. Louis, MO
Key Projects of Last Year
Key projects of last year include Oracle ERP implementation which drove major progress resulting in 10 successful go-lives; Workforce Productivity which drove changes to collaboration tools and internal services resulting in improved knowledge worker productivity across the organization; ThinkCustomer which drove culture change within IT organization to increase the focus on our internal customers and drive better engagement.
Upcoming Projects
Some upcoming projects involve: Oracle ERP implementation to continue drive for 100% adoption by 2021; Digital Customer Experience which involves the launch of the new Emerson.com web site; ThinkCustomer will continue the journey toward a more customer-focused IT organization; InternetOfThings which involves work with our solution-focused businesses to enhance their IOT approach and drive growth; Data Enablement to improve our delivery of data to the business thereby driving better and faster decision-making.
Quote
There is no question that IT organizations must transform to meet the needs of today's businesses. Speed, agility, engagement, and business acumen must be present in today's IT functions or they can expect to face obsolescence.
5
Diana Salguero
IT Director Americas
Vopak Americas
5 | Diana Salguero
Industry: Oil & Gas
Location: Houston, TX
Key Projects of Last Year
Extended the VDI environment to Latin America sites, changed WAN provider, upgraded JDE XE to JDE 9.1, WIFI implementation in the field (Class1, Div1), pilot intrinsically safe devices in the field.
Upcoming Projects
Many Global applications are being replaced, so the division is updating and replacing most of the IT infrastructure in order to accommodate for the upcoming global projects. Other upcoming projects include WIFI replacement in North America, moving the DR to the cloud and moving the support of the VDI environment to a Managed Service vendor.
Quote
In prosperity prepare for a change; in adversity hope for one. - James Burgh
2016 Large Business Winners
1
Martin Lacock
Chief Information Officer
County of Kenosha
1 | Martin Lacock
Industry: County Governement
Location: Kenosha, WI
Key Projects of Last Year
County-wide election/voting system; public WIFI to downtown and County parks areas; expanded security camera coverage to campus area; implemented new consolidated health system; deployed time/attendance and scheduling for Sheriff; kicked off ERP replacement; upgraded the county to Office 2013; scanned 2+ million documents in to ECM solution.
Upcoming Projects
Complete the evaluation and select ERP solution; continue to expand WIFI coverage; implement version source control; server and SAN replacement; migrate iSeries to hosted cloud solution; refresh of the county website; various upgrades to existing application portfolio; implement door access and security cameras in the jail; extend HCM to include recruiting module.
Quote
I am very proud of the IT professionals that are delivering results across the county. We are fortunate to have a great team as well as a great customer base. Our strength is in customer service and building relationships with our customers.
2
William Lake
Deputy CIO
County of Kane
2 | William Lake
Industry: IT
Location: Geneva, IL
Key Projects of Last Year
Migration to new Court Case Management Application; PC Replacement - 5 year; County Fiber Project - 47 plus miles of County fiber; upgrade CCM Telephone system; replace firewall; platform upgrade of Permitting Software; ECM - Forms implementation.
Upcoming Projects
Go Live: A. Permitting Software, B. Court Case Management Application; SIP Implementation; Colocation of Data Center; Revenue Sharing - fiber optic backbone; Fiber construction - redundant paths and laterals.
Quote
ECC 4:9-12 Two people can accomplish more than twice as much as one; they get a better return for their labor. If one person falls, the other can reach out and help. But people who are alone when they fall are in real trouble...
3
Stefka Yancheva
Supervisor of IT Services
OPSEU
3 | Stefka Yancheva
Industry: Public and Government Services
Location: Toronto, ON
Key Projects of Last Year
In 2015 the most important project was the redesign and re-development of our organization's web site. We significantly improved the information architecture, which elevated the way we author and produce content. We also added a self-serve portal area for our members. We added a number of applications in the application virtualization layer (available on any device, anywhere). We ran numerous infrastructure upgrades, keeping our private cloud up to date.
Upcoming Projects
Continue expanding our portfolio of key online services for our members through further development of the self-serve portal. Further improving collaboration and data processing by implementing cloud-based file share system and a mobile app for the field workers.
Quote
Inspiration exists, but it has to find you working (Pablo Picasso). This award is an incredible recognition of the inspiration, dedication and commitment of the small but strong team we have at OPSEU.
4
Normand Porlier
Vice-President Technology & Innovation
Richter Management Ltd.
4 | Normand Porlier
Industry: Accountig & Financial Professional Services
Location: Montreal, PQ
Key Projects of Last Year
Last year, Richter successfully deployed a new ERP system. This major project has impacted every employee within the firm. From the IT standpoint, we have drastically reduced the number of systems to manage from 12 to 1. This gives us additional time to deliver internal client projects. The new system allows the firm to proactively manage all engagements and provide value to the management of real time revenue information.
Upcoming Projects
We envision re-aligning all internal processes to the new firm strategy. This will bring several projects to be done within a short period of time. Project portfolio management will be a key success factor for us. The IT team will focus and invest time in projects that will help us to reduce support hours and invest the saved time in business projects. Our strategic direction is to provide mobility to our workforce; therefore Richter will definitely look at Office 365.
Quote
IT must develop a business understanding in order to provide the right solution; otherwise IT will not be perceived as a business partner and therefore not considered as a game changer.
5
Craig Munns
Manager Information, Communications and Technology
Hornsby Shire Council
5 | Craig Munns
Industry: Local Government
Location: Sydney, NSW
Key Projects of Last Year
Key previous year projects include: Corporate Systems Replacement Project: including Tender, Evaluation, Selection and Contract; Market Review: Phone, Mobiles, WAN/ Internet communications; Network Platforms/ Disaster Recovery / Network Security review; Continuous Improvement Projects - Corporate Systems upgrades, Server o/s upgrades.
Upcoming Projects
Over the next 12 months I will be managing closely the: Finalising the Corporate System implementation project (Finance/HR/Payroll/Assets and Performance Planning systems); Transition out and finalise contract arrangements with the previous ERP supplier by January 2017; SQL Database Review and Disaster Recovery Test after upgrade; Corporate Continuous Business Improvements; Field Mobility software upgrades; Local Government Council Amalgamations and Reform process.
Quote
If you're going to do something, do it right the first time.
6
Jeff Brooks
Chief Information Officer
Muscogee Creek Nation Casinos
6 | Jeff Brooks
Industry: Gaming and Hospitality
Location: Tulsa, OK
Key Projects of Last Year
Business Intelligence for Gaming and Marketing has been a large cultural paradigm shift for our organization. It has created insights into customer behaviors that we never had before. Casino Management System (CMS) conversion has also been a critical component to our growth as an organization. Features and functionality will be greatly improved with CMS. Other key projects include: Point of Sales System upgrade; Property Management System implementation; Mobile Concierge and Mobile Customer Service Apps; Private Cloud upgrade and expansion.
Upcoming Projects
Enterprise Resource Management (ERP) will replace our current Financial Management, Human Capital Management and Supply Chain Management systems with increased functionality, a more comprehensive product set and all encompassing integrated system. The Document Imaging and Approval Routing (DM) will replace several manual paper processes with streamlined digital processes. This will save hundreds of many hours each year. In addition, we will implement CMS for all properties by one year.
Quote
I am extremely honored and humbled by this award. The team we have at MCNC is one of the best groups I have ever had the pleasure to work with. Their dedication and hard work is the reason I am in the position to receive such an honor.
7
Gary Lee
Chief Technology Officer
Veterans United Home Loans
7 | Gary Lee
Industry: Financial Services
Location: Columbia, MO
Key Projects of Last Year
Vendor Management, Financial Transparency, Launch Enterprise Architecture team, Service Catalog, Document Retention, Desktop Virtualization Pilot, Web Application Firewall, Laptop Encryption, Network Microsegmentation, Security Operations Center, Agile Development Expansion.
Upcoming Projects
Unified Communications replacement, Service Desk 2.0, Architecture Playbook, Single Sign On/Multi Factor Authentication, System and Application Availability, Product Quality, Project Portfolio Management, Security Awareness, Secure Coding Practices, Enterprise Data Warehouse.
Quote
Veterans United Home Loans has always subscribed to the belief that our employees are the one thing that differentiates us from the competition and this award is about the Technology team we have put together.
8
Sunny Cooper
Chief Information Officer
San Francisco Health Plan
8 | Sunny Cooper
Industry: Healthcare
Location: San Francisco, CA
Key Projects of Last Year
P4P Application Development, Care Management System Implementation, Various Application/System Upgrades, CAQH CORE Compliance, ICD10, Business & IT Alignment.
Upcoming Projects
Telemedicine, Provider and Member Portals, Whole Person Care, Health Home Program, Data Warehouse and Business Intelligence, Continuous Process and Quality Improvement on key business processes, System Security Risk Assessment and Remediation and Business Continuity Planning and Practice.
Quote
Great teams always embody two qualities: Belief and Trust
9
Amin Kassem
Chief Information Officer
Parkland College Inc.
9 | Amin Kassem
Industry: Higher Education
Location: Champaign, IL
Key Projects of Last Year
Revamped IT Governance at the College as a whole; revamped the Technology Service Desk; created formal IT strategic planning processes; created a formal Portfolio and Project Management Office; established a formal vendor management processes; migrated the entire organization to office 365; deployed ParklandOne (one person on identity) as well as single sign-on system; redeployed Business Intelligence and reporting infrastructure based on Business Objects; improved Wifi access.
Upcoming Projects
Improve disaster recovery by leveraging cloud based solutions; improve mobile strategy; implement BYOD more widely at the college; improve student, faculty and staff training and deploy Predictive analytics.
Quote
The role of CIO is not only an operator of IT, it is also a business partner and change agent. Effective CIOs must oversee a strong IT team in addition to managing external IT relationships, have a good understanding of technology trends, and understand their institution’s business objectives.
10
Frank Adili
Senior Manager Information Technology
Town of Milton
10 | Frank Adili
Industry: Municipal Government
Location: Milton, ON
Key Projects of Last Year
In 2015, we delivered a multilayered network infrastructure to accommodate the Pan Am/ParaPan Am games; delivered a comprehensive enterprise wide MDM Strategy; Citrix Infrastructure and Virtualization redesign and re-launch. Implemented an advanced Intrusion Protection Systems allowing for increased efficiency and protection; designed and implemented a new Oracle virtualized infrastructure. Revamped IT Governance and developed strategic IT capital planning processes.
Upcoming Projects
Spearhead a new enterprise Recreation and Facility Management software system for the Town; Complete first phase of HRIS strategy; design and implement Fibre interconnected backbone for all Town Facilities; implement Transit Next Stop Announcement system, upgrade Fire Department enterprise software system; implement Archiving and Storage solution; redesign telecommunications infrastructure; finalize Portfolio and Project Management Office.
Quote
Information technology and business are becoming inextricably interwoven. Its hard to talk meaningfully about one, without talking about the other. The essence of the CIO is the ability to master both!
11
David DeCamp
Director, Information Technology
Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric Aids Foundation
11 | David DeCamp
Industry: Non-Profit
Location: Global
Key Projects of Last Year
Financial System Data Warehouse: The DW combined multiple systems into a central location, which utilizes BI and advanced reporting tools to provide a unified reports platform for global Foundation staff; Global WAN Upgrade: Optimized the WAN to reduce latency and bandwidth constraints throughout fifteen Sub-Saharan country offices while providing centralized management. Additional major projects included: hardware refresh, video conferencing, EID project and custom applications development.
Upcoming Projects
Global UTM: Enhancing the security of offices by implementing a global solution throughout the Foundation; Global IT Audit: The audit consists of a five-part IT review focusing on hardware, software, security, network and policies and procedures. Each of EGPAF’s primary 15 countries will be audited. Additional major projects for 2016 include a VoIP overhaul, re-architecting the Foundation intranet, modernizing conferencing technology and revamping web applications with responsive design.
12
Kathy Jones
Director, Information Technology
Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority
12 | Kathy Jones
Industry: Government
Location: Regina, SK
Key Projects of Last Year
Implementation of new Supply Chain Distribution System to support construction and opening of a new state-of-the-art liquor distribution centre.
Upcoming Projects
Implementation of a new corporate website and regulatory compliance application. The website will be integrated to the new backend system and will offer a variety of online service abilities to customers. Significant efforts are also being made on implementing extensive changes to support the rollout of Saskatchewan’s new enhanced private liquor retail system.
Quote
IT at SLGA focuses on building relationships with all clients to demonstrate its role as partner and enabler, committed to helping the organization reach its goals through technology
13
Brian Mackay
AVP IT Services and CIO
Thompson Rivers University
13 | Brian Mackay
Industry: Higher Education
Location: Kamloops BC
Key Projects of Last Year
Student Experience Improvement Project: new tools, streamlined processes; project to improve utilization of campus space and reduce time to graduate by creating more efficient schedules; Research Computing Project, Big Data Analytics, High-Performance Computing, Network Improvements; BC Higher Ed Sector Hosting Services for Learning Systems and DR; IT Risk Management Projects.
Upcoming Projects
ERP User Experience Modernization including Mobile App; creation of a digital strategy For TRU; Learning Systems Standardization Project; implementation of a Space Management System; Degree Audit System; IT Compliance Projects.
Quote
In 2016, TRU IT Services is working to better engage faculty with the effective use of technologies, improve the student experience by implementing more systems of engagement, and work with all stakeholders to build and implement a Digital Strategy.
2016 Mid-Market Winners
1
Monique Sendze
Chief Technology and Innovation Officer
Tulsa City County Library
1 | Monique Sendze
Industry: Education - Library
Location: Tulsa, OK
Key Projects of Last Year
Upgraded our wireless infrastructure to an 802.11ac network and more than doubled the number of access points to 160+ allowing our customers to have the best connectivity; planned & deployed Office365 in 45 days to include Exchange, Office, Skype for Business, SharePoint & OneDrive to drive collaboration, improve business processes & free IT Admin resources; transformed the service desk to a more pro-active & value generating unit, by implementing processes that improved customer satisfaction.
Upcoming Projects
Deploy a BC/DR Disaster Recovery as a Service robust, cost effective cloud platform that allows us to meet our RPO of 30 minutes and RTO of 3 hrs; revamp our Digital Infrastructure to improve customer experiences across touch-points; deploy MS PowerBI to provide insights & enable data driven decisions; launch Cisco Omni-Channel Contact Center in our customer care department to provide customers with a consistent experience across all channels; open our state of the art high tech central library.
Quote
I envision a Tulsa City-County Library that will use information technologies to transform our business processes, enhance patron experience, strengthen our enterprise infrastructure, and build new kinds of collaborative tools and spaces.
2
Troy Garvin
Director of Information Technology
City Of Weatherford
2 | Troy Garvin
Industry: Municipal Government
Location: Weatherford, TX
Key Projects of Last Year
The technology team completed upgrades to existing backup power generation and uninterruptible power supplies at our main distribution facility that increased capacity and reliability for future growth. Also, we replaced existing network storage with current SAN technology that includes onsite primary storage, offsite secondary disaster recovery and a tertiary data site.
Upcoming Projects
My technology team will be focusing efforts this upcoming year on migrating to Office 365 and upgrading the core network infrastructure, which includes 35 locations. Additionally, we will concentrate resources on enhancing current mobile applications to reduce overall labor cost.
Quote
We’re here to remove roadblocks and serve as an enabler for city departments to facilitate cost effective solutions, accurate decisions, and timely citizen response. Focus on why you provide technology solutions and the what or how are easy
3
Dave Hildebrand
Manager of ITS
Sioux Lookout Meno-Ya-Win Health Centre
3 | Dave Hildebrand
Industry: Healthcare
Location: Sioux Lookout, ON
Key Projects of Last Year
We completed a complete Network Refresh from Cisco to Brocade hardware, which increased the available bandwidth on the network immensely. This will enable our hospital to grow its capabilities to handle the next generation of medical devices and monitoring.
Upcoming Projects
We will migrate our virtual environment from XenServer 6.2 to vSphere 6 and increase our host count from 3 to 5. We'll be running on newer CPUs & increased RAM to boost performance on existing workloads as well as be able to handle any new workload requirements in the future.
4
Ken Platt
Chief Technology Officer
Learning Resources Inc.
4 | Ken Platt
Industry: Education
Location: Vernon Hills, IL
Key Projects of Last Year
Late 2014, we completed a situational assessment of all core IT services and constructed a set of strategic initiatives to address current business conditions and needs based on the changing industry landscape. Recently, we completed a major upgrade to a core Business System which included hardware, OS, software, database, reporting software, and the introduction of Database replication. Also, we are finishing up the transition of our EDI portfolio to a third party provider.
Upcoming Projects
For 2016, our major initiatives will include the consolidation of our other business units onto the recently upgraded core Business Systems, the upgrade and reconfiguration of the automated warehouse systems to introduce new functionality which will double throughput capacity, and enhancing our Business Intelligence offering with newer easy to use graphical tools.
5
Jamie Britto
Chief Information Officer
Collegiate School
5 | Jamie Britto
Industry: Education
Location: Richmond, VA
Key Projects of Last Year
Help desk continual improvement process, middle school Chromebook 1-1, end user security training, development of comprehensive policies for PCI DSS and BCP
Upcoming Projects
Middleware data solutions, refresh of wifi infrastructure, wifi calling support, event streaming strategy, access control systems
Quote
The world is increasingly dangerous, business needs keep changing, and technology evolves at warp speed. We in IT need to move from ignorance to action as quickly as possible to confront the VUCA world in which we live.
6
Ali Alidina
IT Manager
Canadian Patient Safety Institute
6 | Ali Alidina
Industry: Health Care
Location: Edmonton, AB
Key Projects of Last Year
A major project in 2015-16 was the transition of the CPSI disaster recovery site to a cloud-based solution. This move was part of CPSI IT’s strategic initiative to create a sustainable IT environment. This change established a more scalable disaster recovery infrastructure for CPSI that allows it to grow as needed with minimal hardware investment.
Upcoming Projects
Continuing with the strategic theme of sustainability, CPSI IT will be exploring opportunities to move more of its IT environment to secure cloud-based solutions. A key project that is slated for the summer/fall of 2016 is the transition to Office 365.
Quote
At the end of the day, IT’s underlying purpose is to enable and support the organization to achieve its business objectives. This can only be done by aligning IT’s strategic plan with CPSI’s overall strategic direction
7
Sarah Trimble-Oliver
Chief Information Officer
Cincinnati Public Schools
7 | Sarah Trimble-Oliver
Industry: Education
Location: Cincinnati, OH
Key Projects of Last Year
1:1 Student Laptops and digital curriculum for all high school students to increase student engagement in learning and prepare them for college/career after high school; Adobe Creative Cloud implementation; State online assessment support; Blended Learning for Advanced Placement courses to increase access and participation in college level courses; Implemented a Tech Truck to increase tech awareness and mini-trainings for teachers.
Upcoming Projects
Learning Management System implementation; IT Service Desk system implementation; 1:1 Student Laptops and digital curriculum for elementary students to increase student engagement in learning and prepare them for high school; Data Center renovation; Blended Learning at Hays High Tech elementary school; Expanding MinecraftEDU pilot to use gaming in teaching and learning; Online student enrollment implementation to allow easier enrollment for families.
Quote
The person who says it cannot be done should not interrupt the person doing it. - Chinese proverb
8
Jodi Dines
Chief Information Officer, SVP
Real Estate One
8 | Jodi Dines
Industry: Real Estate
Location: Southfield, MI
Key Projects of Last Year
We started integrating our formerly separate IT departments into one department and physical space which is allowing us to cross-train, collaborate, and gain efficiency. We rolled out many new end user tools that allow our agents and employees to be more productive and win more business. We worked closely with each company we support doing many traditional non-IT projects to help each business grow and succeed.
Upcoming Projects
Due to increased government regulation and pressure from business partners, we are reviewing our entire network infrastructure and security posture. Many projects will result from this review this year and next. We are attempting to shore up our security plan while not inconveniencing our businesses and users, which is a challenging objective.
Quote
You can't be a successful IT department without knowing well what each of your users and businesses does. Walk in their shoes any chance you get and be involved in their businesses. Don't do IT for IT's sake.
9
Lori Baker
Chief Information Officer
Village of Northbrook Inc.
9 | Lori Baker
Industry: Municipal Government
Location: Northbrook, IL
Key Projects of Last Year
Completed a technology infrastructure refresh, replacing neglected hardware with current versions of vendor-supported infrastructure components, including our compute and storage platforms. This project reduced or eliminated the amount of staff-impacting outages required to complete regular maintenance and expand resources and storage, on demand. We also partnered with Departments to evaluate, select and begin implementing a new, integrated ERP system, replacing disparate, legacy application.
Upcoming Projects
Starting a project to replace the entire Village network and wireless infrastructures; implementing an updated design to meet current and future bandwidth requirements, along with refreshed, vendor-supported hardware; including better redundancy and disaster recovery features. Also, we will be redesigning the Village's Record Management Program and implementing technologies to better support the new processes and procedures, automating records management.
Quote
Make it so.
2015 Past Winners
1
Angel Petisco
Chief Information Officer
Miami-Dade County
1 | Angel Petisco
Industry: Government
Location: Miami Dade County, FL
Key Projects of Last Year
More than 30,000 2-way Public Safety and General Government radios were successfully migrated to the new P25 digital radio system; implemented an electronic Arrest Form for arrest and booking process; created a cloud-based geographic open data site with readily accessible information for the public to have access to County government; implemented Smarter Cities-based technology; launch of a new vendor portal and the implementation of a modern Enterprise Content Management technology.
Upcoming Projects
In 2015, Miami Dade will focus on implementing the County's ERP system; development of a community policing mobile application; modernization of the Criminal Justice Information System; continued consolidation of IT infrastructure and redundant functionalities; solicitation of proposals for an enterprise land use management, licensing, permitting, plan review, inspections and code enforcement solution.
Quote
The art of the possible is never more evident than when technology and business needs and desires are joined to create a new reality.
2
Joe Gerardi
Vice President of IT
Abhow
2 | Joe Gerardi
Industry: Healthcare and Social Assistance
Location: Pleasanton, CA
Key Projects of Last Year
None
Upcoming Projects
A key objective for 2015/16 is to complete the delivery of a Wifi infrastructure and support of wireless devices to all residents and team members; with no additional monthly cost. Gerardi hopes that with an under development mobile application, team members will be able to collect and input information about resident likes and dislikes. Acknowledging birthdays and anniversaries, meal preferences, and hobbies are a start, with more areas to follow.
Quote
Another objective is to bring more happiness into the lives of residents.
3
Lee Colaw
Vice President, Information Technology
Amarillo College
3 | Lee Colaw
Industry: Education
Location: Amarillo, TX
Key Projects of Last Year
Integration of the Ellucian computer system with Blackboard Learn; creation of self-service enrollment for continuing education; self-service site to support legislated Texas Success Initiative.
Upcoming Projects
With the help of the Civitas Learning Predictive Analytics system, Colaw aims to create a cloud-based, predictive analytics environment.
Quote
We’re here to remove roadblocks, to be strategic enablers, to be able to say ‘yes’ and to mean it. IT departments for a long time have been viewed as organizations most likely to say ‘no,’ and that’s a tendency we must stop. The technology professional must have a positive mindset and remember the customers are always right. We must always strive to figure out how best to serve them.
4
Greg Flanik
Chief Information Officer
Baldwin Wallace University
4 | Greg Flanik
Industry: Education
Location: Berea, OH
Key Projects of Last Year
Baldwin Wallace University fully embraced the Microsoft Surface platform, with over 20% of faculty switching from Desktop PC users to Surface users, reducing the need for the two-device solution used previously.
Upcoming Projects
Improve the desirability of the Surface-only solution for faculty. Continue partnering with University Relations to re-tool the University website to be a more effective marketing tool.
Quote
Mobility and virtualization are the key determinants of success, with students and faculty both needing access to on-campus computing power and lab software, at home or in their dormitories.
5
Pat Curtis
MIS Director
Leon County, Florida
5 | Pat Curtis
Industry: Public Administration
Location: Tallahassee, FL
Key Projects of Last Year
Key to this objective was the consolidation of Leon’s computing environment: moving three disparate computer server environments into a single IBM compute environment for AIX, Windows, and Linux.
Upcoming Projects
Strategic objectives for 2015 focus on infrastructure, web services, and enhanced processes. Our IT is poised to achieve these objectives through the support of the executive management and appropriated budget.
Quote
I believe our internal initiative to use SmartSheets for project management and communications and providing weekly work plans keep us focused and ensures that priorities are aligned internally and externally.
6
Rob Pickering
Vice President of IS
AAA Allied Group
6 | Rob Pickering
Industry: Member Service
Location: Cincinnati, OH
Key Projects of Last Year
In 2014, IT at AAA Allied group focused on implementation of ServiceNow.
Upcoming Projects
In 2015, we will be focused on conversion of all call centers from Avaya to Cisco Unified Contact Center Enterprise, including advanced capabilities to improve customer service.
Quote
Challenging the Status Quo by Passionately Serving, Proactively Teaching, and Strategically Investing for the people of AAA Allied Group.
7
Howard Brown
Chief Information Officer
Tulalip Data Services – Tulalip Tribes of Washington
7 | Howard Brown
Industry: American Indian Government
Location: Tulalip, WA
Key Projects of Last Year
In 2014, Tulalip Data Services focused on Wireless network build-out, organization wide Microsoft upgrades, industry assessment and compliance standardization, over 4,110 website updates and a Youth Services Student Tracking System update.
Upcoming Projects
In 2015 Tulalip will be focusing on DMZ network design, configuration and installation, organization-wide Microsoft Windows 8 upgrade, implementation of a new Content Management System and tracking systems for various services and a focus on training and development.
Quote
We believe that the appropriate and selective use of technology will enhance the ability to respond to many of the education, community, cultural preservation, business development and Tribal Government needs.
8
Kevin Johnson
Executive Director of IT
Berger Transfer
8 | Kevin Johnson
Industry: Transportation
Location: St. Paul, MN
Key Projects of Last Year
In 2014, we focused on rebuilding our IT Department by implementing ITIL methodologies. We implemented a Change Advisory Board which has integrated IT into the heart of the business.
Upcoming Projects
In 2015, we will be continuing to build IT capability by implementing Office 365. This will continue the new collaborative philosophy that was introduced in 2014 through the implementation of SharePoint, Yammer and Lync.
Quote
Our mission is to provide Berger Transfer and all Berger subsidiaries “Best In Class” technology solutions that drive out cost, create value and make us better to provide our Customer the best service in our industry.
9
Kevin O'Callaghan
Director of IT
CAT Ohio
9 | Kevin O'Callaghan
Industry: Manufacturing and Construction
Location: Broadview Heights, OH
Key Projects of Last Year
Introduction of workflow automation for service requests of all kinds for not only IT Services but also multiple other corporate groups who service employees such as Travel, Purchasing, and Facilities Management.
Upcoming Projects
Several projects in progress to move our reporting and business intelligence tools up the evolution ladder towards “business analytics.
Quote
We treat our employees like customers and focus on Making IT Easy so they can focus on their customers.
10
Bob Gilmore
Director of IT
Cal-Maine Foods
10 | Bob Gilmore
Industry: Agriculture
Location: Jackson, MS
Key Projects of Last Year
Cal-Maine’s most successful IT project in 2014 was moving all of the enterprise’s tier one applications and data to Infrastructure as a Service in a private cloud.
Upcoming Projects
Cal-Maine’s most exciting project for 2015 is developing a mobility platform for collecting and reporting on compliance information for the areas of Risk Management and Food Safety.
Quote
Cal-Maine’s IT philosophy is to proactively assist the enterprise’s business and operational processes thru efficient support and innovative solutions, effectively benefiting profitability and sustainability.
11
Tom Beauchamp
Chief Information Officer
Penn National Gaming Inc.
11 | Tom Beauchamp
Industry: Entertainment and Gaming
Location: Wyomissing, PA
Key Projects of Last Year
In 2014, we focused on implementation of a national loyalty program, with regional flexibility.
Upcoming Projects
In 2015, IT at Penn National Gamming will enable online marketing programs to displace traditional direct mail.
Quote
Delivering technology to ensure a successful business partnership.
12
Betty Ritts
Vice President of IT
Allied Barton Security Services
12 | Betty Ritts
Industry: Security
Location: Conshohocken, PA
Key Projects of Last Year
In 2014, we focused on realignment of pricing, tracking, and education related to Affordable Care Act.
Upcoming Projects
In 2015, IT at Allied Barton will develop a new approach to business intelligence and improve workflows
Quote
Service is in our culture, beginning with the hiring process.
13
James Kennedy
Director of IT
Trinity Wall Street
13 | James Kennedy
Industry: Non-Profit
Location: New York, NY
Key Projects of Last Year
In 2014, among the 65 core IT projects identified, the launch of an organizational-wide “Constituency Relationship Management” (CRM) initiative was a key milestone.
Upcoming Projects
In 2015, IT at Trinity will focus on consolidating our application portfolio using functionality from our CRM system, research alternatives for our present ERP and make a selection with an implementation in 2016. We will also migrate our on premise exchange to Office 365 embracing our cloud strategy.
Quote
IT has to be seen as a partner to the various programs and businesses, and so we’ve made it a priority to build relationships with staff, clients, and all the people we work with at Trinity.
14
Keith Cronk
Chief Information Officer
Harding University
14 | Keith Cronk
Industry: Education
Location: Searcy, AK
Key Projects of Last Year
The selection, development and implementation of new CMS and the complete redesign of the University's website (scheduled to go live in first quarter of 2015).
Upcoming Projects
Though started in 2014, 2015 will see the implementation of a Business Intelligence system that will support strategic decision making and present consistent, trustworthy and timely information to the campus.
Quote
IS and T at Harding University exists to serve. We serve by leading, enabling and empowering our clientele to achieve the mission of Harding in the effective use of information systems and technology.
15
Eric Holdt
IT Director
Palm Beach Gardens
15 | Eric Holdt
Industry: Government
Location: Palm Beach Gardens, FL
Key Projects of Last Year
In 2014, Holdt made staffing adjustments to improve service delivery and provide some depth that was eliminated during the economic downturn.
Upcoming Projects
Eric has recently embraced a cloud-first policy. In moving to Office 365 and Exchange online, he hopes to free up staff time by reducing email administration. He plans to reallocate that time to improving processes within the City’s business units.
Quote
Identify ‘issues’ before they become ‘problems’, get IT involved when necessary, and keep the business units running efficiently.
16
Troy Garvin
Director of IT
City of Weatherford
16 | Troy Garvin
Industry: Government
Location: Weatherford, TX
Key Projects of Last Year
In 2014, Troy and his team continued providing new pc hardware and software to all city offices. Troy also completed a city-wide VoIP phone system upgrade and ongoing security improvement.
Upcoming Projects
The City of Weatherford’s FY15 strategic objectives are classified into three main categories: prioritizing service to citizens, maintaining and expanding revenue sources, and protecting and developing Weatherford’s economic environment.
Quote
Since the city has such a small IT shop, it is challenging to focus on one area of expertise. Instead, the team has excelled in becoming versatile technicians that work with all IT functions.
17
Tony Rockdaschel
IT Manager
Reach Community Development
17 | Tony Rockdaschel
Industry: Non-Profit
Location: Portland, OR
Key Projects of Last Year
Implementation of a high-availability, virtualized server environment: doubled the number of servers available on the network with the ability to add more virtual servers as necessary.
Upcoming Projects
The most significant project slated is to implement a second high-availability virtual environment using two of the physical servers now available for virtualized workstations.
Quote
Standardization is one of the most important things for any business to adopt. We continually work toward this goal in everything - from the equipment and software we purchase to the operating procedures and IT tools we adopt.
18
Sandee Dela Cruz
Director of IT
Nuvo Research
18 | Sandee Dela Cruz
Industry: Pharmaceuticals
Location: Toronto, ON
Key Projects of Last Year
Our biggest project was to support the organization’s litigation against a large US pharmaceutical company, a firm with a market cap of $12 billion. IT played a crucial role in eDiscovery and legal support, resulting in a successful settlement.
Upcoming Projects
Our organization’s strategic objective for 2015 is to advance clinical developments of our pipeline products. IT plays a key role in this objective by supplying the team with the necessary technologies required to effectively collaborate across geographic locations.
Quote
Be an expert in your field, communicate effectively, and earn people’s trust.
19
Ken Platt
Chief Technology Officer
Learning Resources Inc.
19 | Ken Platt
Industry: Manufacturing
Location: Vernon Hills, IL
Key Projects of Last Year
In 2014 we delivered over 70+ projects, primarily to support corporate growth and improve customer service. Two accomplishments which we are particularly proud of include the development of an e-commerce solution to automate the exchange of business transactions with Amazon FBA and FBM channels, resulting in 200% productivity and capacity improvement. Also, based on feedback from the Info-Tech CIO Business Vision Survey, we took initiatives to improve our internal customer’s experience. Our initiatives included introducing a command center type service desk for first level support and system monitoring, published IT metrics, and a Service Desk performance dashboard. These changes contributed in improving our IT satisfaction rating from 73% in 2013 to 84% in 2014.
Upcoming Projects
In 2015 we are focusing on the completion of over 104 projects to date. Major accomplishments include the divestiture of two of our business units, the transition of our EDI portfolio to a third party provider, and a significant hardware and software upgrade to our key business systems in anticipation of future growth.
20
Dave Hildebrand
IT Manager
Sioux Lookout Meno Ya Win Health Centre
20 | Dave Hildebrand
Industry: Health Care
Location: Sioux Lookout, ON
Key Projects of Last Year
Implemented Emerald Dynaboard, a business intelligence data warehouse and reporting system.
Upcoming Projects
In 2015, the IT team at Sioux Lookout Meno-Ya-Win Health Centre will undertake a complete network infrastructure refresh.
Quote
Is the customer happy with the service we provide? Have we done everything in our power to provide top shelf service to our customers? If not, why and how do we fix that?.
Our Methodology
Awards shouldn’t be given out by committee, they should be driven by feedback from business leaders. We use data to bring a critical, unbiased approach to determining winners. Using our Business Vision Stakeholder Satisfaction Survey, we put Business Leaders in control with our rankings being 100% determined by average scores received on two strategically important questions from CIO Business Vision.
Info-Tech Research Group surveyed 39,816 business leaders. Just 28% of them were supporters of their IT Departments.
