As technology continues to evolve at an unprecedented pace, the role of the CIO has become more important than ever. CIOs are responsible for driving innovation, managing complex IT infrastructures, and ensuring that their organizations remain competitive in a rapidly changing landscape. That’s why it’s so important to recognize and celebrate the achievements of these visionary leaders.

For over 20 years, the CIO ORBIE Awards have recognized technology executives for leadership, innovation, and excellence in this rapidly growing, CIO-led national professional association. Once again, Perficient was a proud sponsor of this annual initiative in Houston.

What is the CIO of the Year ORBIE Awards?

In 2015, the organization originally launched BostonCIO, which then led to forming the Inspire CIO Leadership Network (InspireCIO), a national professional association for CIOs with local chapters in over 25 cities, including Houston.

The CIOs honored through the CIO of the Year ORBIE Awards are inspiring and challenge all of us to step up and lead well in our organizations. The awards honor chief information officers who have demonstrated excellence in technology leadership. CIOs are typically recognized in multiple categories, based on the size and scope of their organization and responsibilities.

How did Perficient Get Involved?

Over the past few years, Perficient has sponsored the organization’s award process in Houston. This opportunity is something that our team in Houston is continuously excited about and is always eager to support. For instance, John Latham, Managing Director of Houston Operations was passionate about getting involved again in 2023. So, I set up some time with Latham to learn more about the significance of supporting this initiative.

In your opinion, what is the significance of the CIO ORBIE Awards? 

When asked about the importance of this event, Latham responded: “The OBRIE Awards, in general, is an important event. It’s important in today’s market that we recognize IT leaders and the teams that support those leaders. In my opinion, the ORBIE Awards does a great job in recognizing those leaders in our community who are doing a really effective job.

If you take a step back and think more broadly about how organizations are trying to transform, technology is a key component of that. So, the unique thing about ORBIE is that it gives a platform for people who are transforming their business in order to compete and thrive. It’s also a great outlet for these leaders to network and learn from each other.”

What was your favorite takeaway from attending the Houston CIO ORBIE Awards?

“One of my favorite things that I observed from many of the IT leaders in attendance, was that they did a great job in acknowledging the importance of their teams. They did it with humility, grace, and acknowledging the importance of teamwork.” Throughout the event, Latham noticed the theme of witnessing these local IT leaders recognize the hard work and dedication their teams have put into reaching their goals.” It’s safe to say that the innovative knowledge-share was a common favorite takeaway from all of our Perficient attendees.

Looking Ahead

The InspireCIO of the Year awards are a unique opportunity to honor the achievements of CIOs who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, innovation, and strategic vision. Perficient is proud to have sponsored the 2023 awards and we would like to congratulate all of the winners and your commitment to innovation and leadership.