University of Minnesota, Vice President and Chief Information Officer

We are pleased to announce that the University of Minnesota has appointed Tarek Tomes as vice president for information technology and chief information officer. Tomes brings extensive experience leading large-scale technology organizations at the intersection of infrastructure, innovation, and public service.

Tomes joins the University from the State of Minnesota, where he has served since 2019 as commissioner and state chief information officer and as a member of the governor’s cabinet. In that role, he led statewide digital transformation efforts, strengthened and stabilized critical technology infrastructure, and advanced a coordinated, “whole‑of‑state” approach to cybersecurity across complex, highly matrixed environments.

With more than 25 years of leadership experience across the public and private sectors, Tomes is recognized for his human-centered design approach and transparent, service-oriented leadership style. As CIO, he is well positioned to support the University’s strategic roadmap, enhance the digital experience for students, faculty, and staff, and guide the responsible adoption of emerging technologies in support of research, teaching, and innovation.

Tomes earned his bachelor's degree in computer science from the University of Maryland. 

Read the full press release here.

Becca Kennedy and Dan Rodas led this search with Amble Ryan and Cortnee Bollard.