IT Transformation Program Office takes shape with appointment of David Crotts as program director
The IT Transformation Steering Committee was also recently formed.
Work continues to progress on the IT Transformation Program — a major universitywide initiative focused on strengthening core IT infrastructure, services, and processes at Virginia Tech.
Officially launched in February, the program aims to foster innovation and efficiency, build a culture of collaboration through effective governance, minimize cybersecurity risks, and improve career pathways and support for IT professionals to assist in recruitment and retention.
Several projects within the program are already underway, including an effort to establish a universitywide IT governance model and several initiatives in the area of IT security.
Crystallizing the program’s leadership structure, recent appointments of an interim program director and the program’s steering committee will bolster capacity to deliver on the ambitious initiative over the long term.
David Crotts appointed interim IT Transformation Program director
David Crotts, director of financial management and business operations in the Division of Finance, has been named interim director for the IT Transformation Program Office. In this role, Crotts will lead the office in guiding and facilitating the creation, implementation, and maintenance of the IT Transformation Program and its associated projects.
A Virginia Tech alumnus, Crotts began his career as a staff auditor in the Internal Audit Department (now the Office of Audit, Risk, and Compliance), progressing to senior information technology auditor during his seven years there. He joined the finance division in 2015 as assistant director for strategic initiatives and business analysis before taking on his current position in 2020. Crotts holds the Certified Internal Auditor and Certified Information Systems Auditor (non-practicing) designations.
“With significant experience developing and reviewing business and operational plans for strategic initiatives, new programs, and other business activities for Virginia Tech, David is well-positioned to lead the IT Transformation Program Office as it begins work on the program’s activities. I congratulate David as he takes on this new opportunity,” said Chris Kiwus, interim senior vice president and chief business officer.
IT Transformation Steering Committee established
An IT Transformation Steering Committee was also recently formed. Membership includes academic and administrative leaders from across the university and the commonwealth. Among those units represented are the Division of IT, Division of Finance, Division of Human Resources, Student Affairs, Advancement, College of Architecture and Urban Studies, Virginia Tech Transportation Institute, the Innovation Campus, and many more. The full membership roster can be found on the IT Transformation Program site.
With direction from program sponsors Kiwus; Cyril Clarke, executive vice president and provost; and Scott Midkiff, vice president for information technology and chief information officer, the IT Transformation Steering Committee will provide guidance and strategic direction to the program and will serve as program advocates within their respective college, unit, or university areas. This committee will meet regularly to review program progress and to advise key decisions as the program evolves.
Together, the program sponsors, program director, and steering committee will establish the IT Transformation Program Office, which will bring together a cross-disciplinary team of university faculty and staff to conduct program operations, project management, communications, and program analysis.
“Through the leadership and guidance of the Division of IT and the Transformation Steering Committee, we are focusing our efforts on strategies and projects that will help us achieve a more effective, coordinated, and collaborative IT operating model at Virginia Tech and better serve the needs of our campus and community stakeholders,” said Clarke.
