SoCalCIO

A little over a year ago, while pregnant, I discovered a lump that was growing rapidly. Just a week later, I welcomed my second child into the world.?? Amidst the whirlwind of postpartum life, I found myself at my first mammogram appointment. Despite pumping just before the exam, I was leaking breast milk everywhere, and the discomfort of the procedure was overwhelming. All I wanted was to be home cuddling my newborn daughter. ?? Given my family history of breast cancer and the size of the lump—about the size of a golf ball—my doctor urged prompt action. Thankfully, my journey had a positive outcome, but I know that not everyone receives such good news.??? That’s why today, I’m proud to support #TechInPink2024, an initiative dedicated to raising breast cancer awareness. Every post shared helps drive donations to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation, making a real difference in the lives of those affected by this disease. ?? Special thanks to Estée Lauder's CIO, Michael Smith, for championing this important cause. Together, we can unite in the fight against breast cancer and spread awareness for a brighter, healthier future. ?? Learn more and donate here: The Breast Cancer Research Foundation SoCalCIO SanDiegoCIO Inspire Leadership Network

I know a CIO who feels overwhelmed as he navigates the complexities of new AI challenges within his organization. ?? While he has a handful of peers to lean on, he often feels isolated in this journey. ?? We all know how lonely it can be at the top! Recently, I invited him to join a virtual discussion with the members of SoCalCIO and SanDiegoCIO. ?? Afterwards, he reached out to say, 'Manda, wow! This conversation was exactly what I needed. Thank you for creating a safe space for technology executives to collaborate and solve problems. ?? His response reminded me of the value that an Inspire Leadership Network membership provides leaders both for their personal growth and for their organization. ???? I’m dedicated to fostering environments where CIOs can find answers in the room. ?? If you’re looking to take your game as a CIO to the next level—look no further! Shoot me a message. ??

We are thrilled to announce that Joe Wallace, CIO of Mission Produce Inc., has joined SoCalCIO! ?? [I know what you're all wondering... does this mean we get free avocados? We’ll have to guac about that later! ??] As the leader of IT strategy and operations at Mission Produce Inc.—the world’s foremost producer, distributor, and marketer of fresh Hass avocados—Joe brings a wealth of experience to our network. With a proven track record in large-scale ERP implementations and digital transformations, he excels at developing IT roadmaps in collaboration with business leaders. Joe’s commitment to fostering a transparent IT culture drives innovation and operational efficiencies, perfectly aligning with the values of our members. Join us in welcoming Joe to the preeminent peer leadership network of Southern California's Chief Information Officers! ??

What a night!? The Finalist Reception and Dinner is always a highlight of the year, offering the rare chance to uncover the personal stories and hidden talents of these incredible C-suite executives—things you’d never find on their LinkedIn profiles: ?? When James Frazee isn’t in the office, you’ll find him spearfishing. ??? Joe Wallace won his first motorcycle race at just 5 years old! ?? Deepika Rayala has mastered the art of embracing the unfamiliar, having lived in 5 different countries. ?? In another life, Ray Chan could easily be a driver in 2 Fast 2 Furious. ?? Edmund Clark wasn’t looking for a pet, but now his bird is his regular Zoom sidekick. ?? He could’ve gotten himself into a lot more trouble when Justin E. Skelton, MBA was a kid—must be the height! ?? Lynn Fyhrlund once had a full conversation with Dave Matthews, without realizing who he was. ?? Satya N. Jayadev isn’t just a CIO—he’s a true stand-up comedian. ???? Marvin Cruz survived a motorcycle accident without a scratch, but a simple run took him down. ?? Jon Silvertooth is not just a CIO, but also an award-winning beer and cider brewer. ???? Ash Shehata’s tattoos tell incredible stories. ?? Carmella Cassetta’s unique name was used for a character in a murder mystery. ?? Matt Hunnicutt once tried to leave IT by selling his company—didn’t work out! ?????? Michael Hsu, CISSP prefers pets that aren’t your typical dogs or cats. ?? Kavita Deepak , PMP practically lives in the sky—she’s visited 7 countries in just 9 months this year! ?? Dan McClintock once disappeared—literally—thanks to David Copperfield. It was an unforgettable evening spent with some of the most remarkable IT leaders in SoCalCIO & SanDiegoCIO! Looking forward to reuniting at the SoCal #ORBIEAwards on October 30th! ????

?? Welcome, Deepika Rayala, to SoCalCIO! ?? Deepika is the Chief Digital and Information Officer at Cornerstone OnDemand, where she oversees the company’s global IT strategy. With over 20 years of experience in IT leadership, she has successfully led transformation initiatives at Conga, Broadcom, and Genentech. She is also an active leader and advisor in the technology community, passionate about mentoring women in tech and fostering diverse and inclusive corporate cultures. Her contributions have earned her several awards, including recognition as one of the Top 100 Diverse Women in Tech and the Advancing Women in Tech Award.?? We're better because of you, Deepika. Thank you for leaning in! Exciting times are ahead for our unparalleled community! #InspireLeadershipNetwork #CLevelLeadership #WomeninTech

?? Exciting News, SoCalCIO! ?? We’re pumped to welcome Bharat Ananth to the SoCalCIO crew! ?? Bharat is a powerhouse in Business and Digital Transformation, known for driving tech strategies and sparking innovation. With a hands-on approach and a knack for creating value, Bharat is going to be a fantastic addition to our community. Let’s give Bharat a warm welcome to the Inspire Leadership Network! Can’t wait to see the amazing things you’ll bring to the table. ???

When everything goes right, does anyone notice? Inspire Leadership Network is proud to be the exception — shining a spotlight on the technology leaders and their teams who drive success, often without the recognition they truly deserve.???? Recently, I had the chance to connect with some of the most talented, humble, and dedicated Chief Information Officers from LA, Orange County, and San Diego, capturing their truly inspiring stories.???? Jon Silvertooth, California Pizza Kitchen ?? Ash Shehata, AHMC HealthCare ? Dan McClintock, The Meruelo Group ?? Justin E. Skelton, MBA, Dine Brands Global ?? Edmund Clark, California State University, Office of the Chancellor ?? Doss Tychicus, AIDS Healthcare Foundation ???? Stephen Olive, Edwards Lifesciences ?? Carmella Cassetta, Hoag Health System ? Matt Hunnicutt, Long Beach Container Terminal (LBCT LLC) ?? Kevin Gray, City of Burbank ?? Satya N. Jayadev, Skyworks Solutions, Inc.?? Lucilla Rastelli, GE HealthCare ???? Ray Tofolo, CoolSys - Refrigeration and HVAC Systems ?? Gil Salazar, MS, Stater Bros. Markets ?? Allan Lamkin, Paul Hastings ???? Doug Cook, Jack in the Box ?? Michael Hsu, CISSP, Botanic Tonics ?? Lea Eriksen, City of Long Beach ?? We’re super pumped to celebrate these amazing trailblazers and their stories at the SoCalCIO #ORBIE Awards on October 30 in Huntington Beach.???? Want to be there to cheer them on and find out the winners live? Shoot me a message and let’s make it happen!

We’re thrilled to welcome Doss Tychicus as a new member of SoCalCIO! ?? With nearly three decades of experience as a Chief IT Executive, Doss brings extensive expertise in managing IT operations, cloud architecture, and strategic planning for a global company.???? Doss, we’re excited to have your voice and insights join our community of top technology executives in Southern California. ???? Welcome aboard!

Three impactful days summed up in three minutes. #Converge24 was one for the books! ?? Click here to learn more about the largest conference exclusively for C-level technology leaders: https://lnkd.in/gzZfqmgp #Technology #Leadership #CIO #CISO #Innovation

Genuinely having the best time at Inspire Leadership Network’s annual member conference, #Converge, with SoCalCIO & SanDiegoCIO! ?????????? Today’s sessions were truly inspiring, with insights from thought leaders like Brené Brown, Kate Johnson, and John O'Leary - Live Inspired. ?? “The capacity to straddle the tension of paradox is the new leadership skill of the next 10 years. What is your capacity for uncertainty?” - Brené Brown ?? “Hope is part of the strategy when you have a goal, plan, and agency. I call myself Chief Hope Officer of Lumen.” - Kate Johnson ???? “What if you walked into every interaction expecting a smile, a new friend, and a true connection? What if every moment was seen as a miracle? What if each interaction was seen not from the perspective of what might go wrong next, but from one certain that the best is yet to come? Fear. Or love. It’s a choice. What will you choose?” - John O'Leary - Live Inspired. ???? Tonight, we look forward to the National #ORBIE Awards. ?? I’m cheering for Michael J. Reagin, CHCIO, MBA, Simon Nazarian, and Helen Norris! ??But truly, every technology leader here deserves immense respect for their leadership and dedication. More to come…??