Session

The CIO Mandate: Enterprise Leadership, Technology Strategy, and Value Creation at Scale
CIO Roundtable Panel

VIP Theater

Starts: September 17, 2026 1:00 pm
Ends: 2:00 pm
Sponsored by
More info

Abstract:

At the highest levels of the enterprise, technology leadership has become inseparable from business performance, risk management, and growth strategy. For CIOs and senior technology executives, the mandate is no longer centered on delivery alone—it is about shaping enterprise direction, informing executive decision-making, and ensuring technology investments translate into sustained business value.

This panel convenes CIOs and senior enterprise technology leaders responsible for setting strategy across complex, global organizations. The discussion will explore how executive teams are navigating competing priorities across modernization, innovation, and operational stability while maintaining focus on outcomes that matter to the business.

Rather than focusing on tactical execution, this conversation will examine how CIOs are operating as enterprise leaders—aligning technology strategy with corporate objectives, influencing investment decisions at the C-suite and board level, and building organizations capable of adapting to continuous change. Panelists will share how they are driving clarity in environments defined by complexity, constraint, and accelerating expectations.

Key Takeaways:

  • Enterprise-Level Leadership: How CIOs are shaping business strategy through technology decision-making at scale
  • C-Suite Alignment: Strengthening influence and collaboration across executive leadership and board stakeholders
  • Strategic Prioritization: Balancing modernization, innovation, and operational resilience across global enterprises
  • Value Creation Focus: Converting technology investments into measurable enterprise outcomes and business impact
  • Leadership in Complexity: Operating effectively in environments defined by rapid change, constraint, and competing demands
Speakers

Chris LaCour

Chief Information Officer, RSi

► I am highly effective in information technology leadership, with experience delivering results in management roles delivering groundbreaking advancements for enterprise organizations while supporting service requests and multimillion dollar revenue streams. ► My success is driven by my ability to lead projects to strengthen and expand systems to meet the needs of large organizations. SUMMARY ► Engaging information technology executive possessing a winning blend of management/technical expertise, skill in the oversight of teams, and practical experience in large organizations. ► Leverages a unique mix of strategic and analytical expertise, consistently exceeding performance goals by aligning the effort of strong teams with organizational objectives. LEADERSHIP HIGHLIGHTS ★ With Valorem Reply, planned and delivered a high-profile project for H&R Block that redesigned the client’s incident management process. ★ In a prior role with Vivoh, led support services and cloud architecture, ensuring the overall quality of the customer experience for a diverse roster of global companies. Designed a proof of concept for the company’s flagship video streaming solution. ★ As the Director of Support for VBrick Systems, led 20 agents and engineers across three teams while serving as a primary point of contact for clients.

Jen MacIvor

Chief Information Officer, Walsworth

Purpose driven executive with a proven track record in strategic vision and business acumen, successfully leading cross-functional teams through complex transformations and operational excellence. Demonstrated ability to lead during disruptive business change: market pivot, scale-up and transformation business phases, fostering a culture of adaptability and continuous improvement. Adept in leveraging emotional intelligence and cultural competency to build inclusive, high-performing teams and drive sustainable business growth. Portfolio of experience across retail, consumer products, transportation, private equity, automotive and professional services operating in North America, Asia and Europe.

Jim Richardson

Chief Information Officer, Kansas City Life Insurance

Information Technology leader with a proven ability to direct organizational goals from concept to fully operational status. Skilled expert in the design and delivery of cost-effective solutions in a high growth environment that deliver business value. Accomplished leader with the ability to influence and work in unison with global staff in multiple departments. More than 15 years of IT leadership experience providing vision and direction. Specialties: • Hands on experience with Business Intelligence and Data Mining disciplines. • Ability to transform business objectives into technical strategy. • Hands on experience developing, maintaining, and accomplishing budgetary goals. • Successful project management from initiation to closing. • Proven ability to develop and execute strategic plans.

Calep Howard

Chief Information Officer, MMGY Global

Driven, top-performing Chief Information Officer with 25+ years of experience guiding succinct teams in the development and integration of strategic IT initiatives while building sustainable partnerships across the globe. Consistent results as a cross-functional leader, bringing structure and ingenuity to underperforming teams with a track record of efficient project planning and execution. Earned reputation for exceptional business intelligence and proficiency in integrated marketing, user experience, web development/analytics, and enterprise software.

Dr. Michael Barr

Chief Information Officer, The Guidance Center

Executive business and technology leader with more than 20 years of progressive leadership guiding enterprise transformation, organizational modernization, and strategic investments across healthcare, government, defense, and higher education. Proven executive experience aligning technology, cybersecurity, operations, finance, and governance to accelerate organizational growth, improve enterprise performance, and strengthen risk management. Trusted advisor to CEOs, General Officers, executive leadership teams, and governing boards on enterprise strategy, digital transformation, and business resilience.