Mr Stephen Pearson commenced as Chief Information Officer (CIO) in February 2018. A consistent, results-driven global CIO and IT executive, he has proven ability to deliver sustainable transformational change through positive influencing, the close collaboration of IT and business stakeholders, and effective leveraging of technology as a key business enabler. As Defence CIO he is responsible for: - secure and integrated single information environment which supports Defence’s business and military operations; - providing strong leadership of the people and financial resources within the Group; and - making a significant leadership contribution in relation to security, both for the Defence organisation and at a whole of government level. Prior to joining the Australian Public Service, Stephen’s career encompassed diverse industry sectors including mining services, supply and logistics, retail, airlines, financial services, manufacturing, healthcare and professional services. He has a strong record of success in developing and implementing IT strategies, operating models and technology solutions (digital, ERP) in complex global business environments. He is experienced with both centralised and distributed IT functions, and is an advocate of organisation change management to complement technology initiatives. After spending a number of years successfully delivering major business change initiatives at Air Canada, Qantas, Coles and Newcrest Mining, he was the global CIO of Orica during a time of great change in the industry and the organisation. He has also been an independent advisor to Toll Group, Ausenco and Oil Search leadership, supporting their respective transformation programs. Prior to joining Defence, Stephen was CIO and Head of Transformation at Lattice Energy. His vision for the future is for the successful delivery of effective, flexible, innovative and scalable ICT solutions and services to support our current and future integrated Defence capability to defend the country and its interests. Stephen graduated from the University of Central Queensland with a Bachelor of Business Studies in 1977 and is a Chartered Accountant. He is married with two children, a daughter and a son. He enjoys tennis, keeping fit, travelling, wine, music and watching most sports, particularly rugby union where he is a Foundation Member of the Melbourne Rebels.