David Behen Named CIO Award Winner

Contact: Kurt Weiss, 517-335-0050

September 28, 2012

The State of Michigan’s Chief Information Officer (CIO), David Behen, was recognized for excellence on Thursday, September 27, as part of the first CIO Awards sponsored by Crain’s Detroit Business.  Behen is responsible for the oversight of information technology within state government within the Department of Technology, Management and Budget (DTMB).

Nominations for Crain’s CIO Awards were sought from technology executives across metro Detroit.  A panel of CIOs and industry experts examined nomination forms for examples of innovation in use of technology strategy, leadership in the industry and a track record of going beyond the call of duty.  The judges, who asked not to be named, collaborated with Crain’s staff to determine the winners.

“This is especially meaningful because the recognition comes as a result of what my peers are saying,” said Behen.  “I am fortunate to work with top IT professionals both inside and outside of state government and it feels good to know they think we are doing a good job.” 

Crain’s highlighted the role CIOs play in merging business strategy with technology at the launch of the CIO Summit at The Fillmore in Detroit.  Behen was one of five award recipients.

“David has been a true leader for us and this recognition is well deserved,” said Governor Rick Snyder.  “He has championed our efforts to improve government service through technology, as well as using our IT resources to engage citizens through outreach activities like the online town hall meetings we’ve been hosting.”

Behen started work as the state’s CIO in January 2011.  Behen has worked closely with DTMB Director John Nixon and the Legislature to secure $47 million in ongoing funding for needed IT investments.

“We made a significant investment in technology and David is the right guy leading the way for us,” said Nixon.  “We have a strong working relationship and we share a common vision when it comes to the use of IT as an enabler for improving government service for our citizens.”

Behen is the former CIO and deputy administrator of Washtenaw County, and more recently served as vice president and chief information officer of GDI Infotech, a software consultancy in Ann Arbor.  Behen earned a Bachelor of Science degree and a Master of Science in Public Administration degree from Eastern Michigan University.  In 2007 Behen was named to the Crain’s Detroit Business 40-under-40 list for outstanding professional achievement.

“I am extremely honored by the recognition,” concluded Behen.  “I consider it a privilege to serve the residents of Michigan and I will continue to do all I can to ensure we are using IT to make improvements in the way government operates and delivers service.”