Professional Summary

Professional Overview

Karen Ward is a seasoned Chief Information Officer with a proven track record of driving digital transformation and aligning technology strategies to support business objectives. With over 30 years of experience in the information technology industry, she has developed a robust expertise in enterprise-wide technology management, strategic planning, and IT infrastructure optimization.

Experience Summary

Current Role

As the Chief Information Officer at GracoRoberts, Karen is responsible for leading the company's information technology initiatives, overseeing the development and implementation of innovative technology solutions, and ensuring the alignment of IT capabilities with the organization's strategic goals. She plays a pivotal role in shaping the company's digital roadmap, optimizing operational efficiency, and enhancing the overall technology-driven experience for both internal and external stakeholders.

Career Progression

Prior to her current role, Karen held various leadership positions within the IT industry, including Information Technology Manager at JLS, LLC, where she spearheaded the implementation of robust business systems and streamlined IT operations. She also served as the Sr. Director of Information Technology at DynCorp International, where she was instrumental in developing and executing enterprise-wide technology strategies, managing complex IT infrastructure, and driving continuous improvements in service delivery.

Throughout her career, Karen has demonstrated a strong ability to navigate the evolving technological landscape, anticipate industry trends, and implement innovative solutions that create tangible business value. Her diverse background, ranging from IT management to entrepreneurship, has equipped her with a well-rounded perspective and the necessary skills to thrive in fast-paced, dynamic environments.

Academic Background

Karen holds a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science from the University of Texas at Arlington, where she graduated with distinction. Her academic achievements and continuous learning initiatives have reinforced her technical expertise and strategic decision-making capabilities.

Areas of Expertise

• IT strategic planning and digital transformation

• Enterprise-wide technology management and optimization

• Business systems implementation and integration

• Cybersecurity and risk management

• Operational efficiency and process improvement

• Cross-functional collaboration and change management

Professional Impact

Throughout her career, Karen has successfully led large-scale IT initiatives, driving measurable improvements in operational efficiency, cost savings, and customer satisfaction. Her contributions have been recognized by industry peers, and she is known for her ability to translate complex technical concepts into pragmatic, business-aligned solutions.

Conclusion

As a seasoned Chief Information Officer, Karen Ward is poised to continue her impact on the technology landscape, leveraging her deep industry expertise and strategic vision to guide GracoRoberts through the digital age. Her unwavering commitment to innovation, coupled with her proven leadership abilities, positions her as a valuable asset in driving the organization's technological transformation and competitive advantage.