CIO and Vice President, Information Management Johnson and Johnson Pharmaceutical Research and Development EMTM 3 - Class of 1997

 

What was the nature of your job before you decided to join the EMTM program?

Before joining the EMTM program I was an information technology manager at Merck. My team was dedicated to advancing engineering and construction through the use of technology (Computer Integrated Engineering & Construction). We provided the technology infrastructure, business support applications, and sophisticated engineering and modeling systems for Merck's Central Engineering organization.

What made you decide to go back to grad school? Why the EMTM program at Stevens?

My undergraduate degree was in management information systems and business administration, which I pursued while working full time at DuPont. My career had spanned manufacturing, engineering, strategic planning, project management, and information technology functions. I was interested in being a business leader who could drive change, stimulate innovative ideas, and enable my company to grow and remain competitive. I looked into MBA programs for advanced learning and collaboration opportunities with other high potential managers.

I chose Stevens for several reasons. I was intrigued by the combination of academic and industrial experience of the faculty, career-friendly schedule, and well-balanced curriculum offered by the EMTM program. The mix of MBA-quality and technology leadership courses appealed to my personal interests and long-term career goals. I also liked the option to attend classes at local company campuses.

What value did you derive from the program?

I broadened my range of thinking and I started to lead more strategically. I also increased my general business knowledge. The program provided me with tools, techniques, methodologies, and challenging opportunities to think like an executive and act as an entrepreneurial business leader. The program helped me to build my confidence and it led to my personal and professional growth. With my fellow classmates, I also learned how to effectively network with other professionals outside my company and industry.

What changes have occurred in your professional life since taking the program?

I was promoted to director while I was in the EMTM program. Two years after graduating from the program I accepted a position as the CIO for a life sciences company in Maryland. I subsequently came to Johnson & Johnson where I have had the privilege to lead incredible teams devoted to global infrastructure programs and more recently as the CIO and vice president for information management for Johnson & Johnson Pharmaceutical Research & Development L.L.C.

The EMTM program and the faculty at Stevens have provided a foundation where new ideas can be investigated, nurtured, and shared. I attribute much of my fast-track success as an executive to the knowledge and skills I developed in the EMTM program with the help of the Stevens faculty. I am currently enrolled in the PhD program for Technology Management at Stevens where I continue to grow and feed my intellectual curiosity.