Brad W.

About Brad W.

As a strategic and innovation-driven CIO, I lead digital transformation and operational excellence in the banking industry—bridging the gap between technology and business outcomes. I specialize in deploying AI, automation, and scalable technology to streamline operations, reduce costs, and elevate the customer experience. Key Focus Areas:• Banking Operations & Technology Modernization• AI & Intelligent Automation | Predictive Analytics• Digital Banking Innovation | Customer-Centric Solutions• M&A Integration | Enterprise Cost Optimization• Regulatory Compliance | Risk Mitigation I’ve led transformative initiatives that delivered a 40% workforce optimization and multi-million-dollar cost savings, all while improving speed, accuracy, and service. I’ve also overseen the seamless M&A integration of $1B+ in acquired assets banks, aligning people, processes, and platforms with long-term strategic goals.I’m passionate about helping forward-thinking financial institutions harness emerging technologies to create scalable, resilient, and customer-first operations. Open to connecting with leaders, collaborators, and organizations exploring what’s next in banking and fintech.

Experience

1. Chief Technology and Innovation Officer

   Origin Bank

   Mar 2026 — Present · Ruston, LA, US

   As Chief Technology & Innovation Officer, I lead enterprise technology, digital innovation, and data strategy to drive growth, enhance client experience, and position the organization for the future of banking. I partner with executive leadership and the Board to align technology and innovation initiatives with long-term business strategy, ensuring we remain secure, scalable, and competitive in a rapidly evolving financial services landscape.My role focuses on transforming how the bank uses technology to serve clients, empower employees, and create new opportunities. I oversee digital banking, core platforms, infrastructure, cybersecurity, data and analytics, and emerging technologies, while leading innovation efforts that improve efficiency, strengthen resilience, and enable new products and capabilities.Key areas of leadership include:• Enterprise digital transformation and modernization of core and channel platforms• Innovation strategy, including AI, automation, and advanced data capabilities• Cybersecurity, risk management, and regulatory alignment in a highly regulated environment• Cloud and architecture strategy to support scalability and speed to market• Technology governance, vendor partnerships, and disciplined execution of strategic initiatives• Building high-performing teams and a culture of innovation, accountability, and continuous improvementI believe technology and innovation should be a strategic differentiator — not only supporting the business, but helping define its future, accelerate growth, and deliver lasting value to clients, employees, shareholders, and the communities we serve.

Education

• Eastern Illinois University

  Bachelor of Arts (B.A.), Economics minor in Business Admin.

• Lake Land College

  Associate of Arts and Sciences (A.A.S.), Business Administration and Management, General

Skills

• Crm
• Itil
• Strategic Planning
• Vendor Management
• Sales
• Change Management
• Active Directory
• Team Leadership
• Leadership
• Business Process Improvement
• Citrix
• Enterprise Software
• Enterprise Architecture
• Sales Management
• Management
• Team Building
• Process Improvement
• Project Management
• Integration
• Sdlc
• Business Analysis
• Strategy
• Application Architecture
• Business Process
• Vmware
• Ms Project
• IT Strategy
• Customer Service
• Consulting
• Training
• Information Technology
• Banking