The University of Rochester named Jim Forrester as interim chief information officer (CIO) and university vice president, effective Aug. 1.
With the appointment, University President Sarah Mangelsdorf elevated the CIO role to report directly to the president. The move reflects the growing strategic importance of technology across the institution, the university said in a July 6 press release.
“The new role will position a leader to create connections across the institution and create strategic alignment that serves the needs of the University community,” Mangelsdorf said.
Forrester currently serves as associate vice president of information technology at University of Rochester Medicine. In that role, he has developed and delivered a comprehensive IT strategy for the Health Sciences Campus and affiliate organizations.
“I look forward to working in close partnership across our University community to advance the University’s mission and ensure its continued impact,” Forrester said.
He succeeds Julie Myers, who plans to retire at the end of August after nearly two decades with the institution. In his current role, Forrester also worked closely with Myers in system-wide needs identification and implementation, the university said.
“Jim Forrester is an exceptional IT leader who brings deep expertise in both technology alignment and innovation, along with deep technical knowledge and strategic leadership,” Mangelsdorf said. “His experience and dedication will be invaluable during this transition as we position the University to leverage technology in the future.”
The university said a national search for a permanent CIO will begin in fiscal 2027.
