After an extensive national search, Gayleen Gray has been appointed McMaster’s new Assistant Vice-President and Chief Technology Officer.

Gray is currently the Deputy Chief Information Officer and Associate Director, IT Strategy and Partnerships at the University of Guelph. At McMaster, she will be responsible for developing the university’s first campus-wide IT strategy and financial plan. She will oversee the work of University Technology Services and ensure a consistent and integrated approach to all IT functions across the University.

Gray’s appointment comes at an important time for the future of McMaster’s information technology. The University has recently completed a thorough IT services review, which took a deep and expansive look at all IT services delivered across the University. This report will serve as an important roadmap as Gray develops and executes McMaster’s new IT strategy.

“We’re fortunate to welcome a respected and highly accomplished IT leader to campus,” says Provost David Wilkinson. “Gayleen is a skilled professional with deep experience working with numerous stakeholders on enterprise-level projects. These are essential attributes for McMaster’s first Chief Technology Officer and will be key as we move our campus-wide strategy.”

In her time at Guelph, Gray has worked on enterprise-level systems, IT security, risk management and client services. She has delivered numerous projects and services which have helped academic and administrative units excel, including systems that support students, staff, faculty and researchers.

Roger Couldrey, McMaster’s Vice-President Administration, noted Gray’s long and progressive career in higher education IT.

“We are impressed by Gayleen’s leadership experience, university acumen and her many accomplishments, particularly at an institution with a similar IT model and which is respected for its research work,” he says. “I’m looking forward to working with Gayleen at McMaster.”

Gray holds an MBA as well as a BA in English Literature along with numerous IT certifications. She is active in the IT higher education community and in 2013 was the YMCA-YWCA Guelph Women of Distinction Award recipient in the Information Technology category.

Gray will start her new role on August 21.