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Session

Shifting Operational IT Leadership to Promote Real-World Value
CIO Roundtable

VIP Theater

Starts: May 14, 2025 11:00 am
Ends: 12:00 pm
Sponsored by
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Shifting Operational IT Leadership to Promote Real-World Value

Abstract:

As organizations navigate an increasingly complex digital landscape, the role of IT leaders is evolving beyond operational efficiency to become drivers of real-world business value. This panel will explore how CIOs can shift their operational focus to align IT strategies with organizational goals, delivering measurable outcomes that resonate with stakeholders. Panelists will discuss innovative approaches to bridging the gap between IT operations and business strategy, fostering cross-functional collaboration, and leveraging technology to create tangible value. Attendees will gain insights into leadership strategies that prioritize agility, resilience, and impact, equipping them to lead IT transformations that matter in the real world.

 

Host

Altaf Uddin

Chief Information Officer, Kansas Secretary of State

Digital transformation leader with a consistent track record of creating, implementing, and improving processes and procedures focusing on core business imperatives, market research, and customer needs. Experienced in long-term strategic planning, Business and IT alignment, and continuous improvement of cyber security and IT service delivery.

Speakers

Thurston Smith, Ph.D

Chief Information Officer, Swope Health

Thurston Smith joined Swope Health in March 2021 from Cerner Corp., where he was a Senior Engineer Manager leading an engineering team in code design and development. Previously, he was CIO at the Samuel U. Rodgers Health Center in Kansas City, and he brings expertise from roles at Truman Medical Centers; Datafile Technologies; and DST Systems Inc., all in Kansas City; and at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in Iowa City, Iowa. A veteran of the U.S. Army and Army Reserve, Smith has also held positions as an adjunct professor with Johnson County Community College and DeVry University. Dr. Smith holds a Doctorate of Health Administration from Capella University in Minneapolis; and an MBA from DeVry University, Keller Graduate School of Management, in Naperville, Ill. He received a Master of Arts in Educational Technology from the University of Missouri-Kansas City; Associate degree in Applied Science in Information Technology from Hamilton Business College, Cedar Rapids, Iowa; and a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and Computer Science from Mississippi Valley State University in Itta Bena, Miss. Active in the Kansas City community, his church and fraternity, Dr. Smith also serves on the boards of Jackson County CASA, a court advocacy group for children, and his non-profit organization, Iron Men Ministry, which mentors young men in positive development and empowerment.

Jerry Sullivan

Chief Information Officer, Kansas City Board of Public Utilities

With over 15 years of executive leadership in the utility industry, Jerry brings a wealth of experience in operations, customer service, electric transmission, and power generation. He combines his technical expertise with a deep understanding of electric markets, transmission, and power generation to drive innovation and operational excellence. Jerry holds an MBA in Finance from NYU Stern and a BS in Engineering from West Point. He is passionate about leading teams to deliver exceptional customer experiences while optimizing costs, and he is committed to advancing utility innovation to meet the challenges of the future.

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.

Dan OKeefe

Founder Pivotly & Slick Digital & Former Chief Information Officer, JELD-WEN, Inc

Dan O'Keefe has over 30 years of experience in leveraging disruptive technologies to drive business growth and innovation. He has a deep understanding of how a mix of off-the-shelf-software, integration, and custom development can transform organizations. Dan has held executive leadership roles including CIO at several global companies across various functions, including manufacturing, healthcare, and finance. His expertise includes strategic IT alignment, large-scale program management, financial management, system architecture, data management, and IT service delivery. Dan's ability to translate technical solutions into tangible business value has been a key factor in his success. He has a proven track record in managing complex system and ERP implementations, application development, system integrations, and IT infrastructure projects. As a trusted advisor, Dan helps teams businesses the power of technology to achieve their strategic objectives and gain a competitive edge.