Micah Schaafsma

About Micah Schaafsma

Micah is the inaugural Chief Data Officer at WaFd Bank, where he is dedicated to transforming the bank’s data into a strategic asset and fostering a data-driven culture. In this role, he leads the development and oversight of the bank’s data governance program, focusing on robust data management practices and enhancing data literacy to unlock insights that drive business growth and deepen customer engagement.Previously, Micah served as Chief Information Officer for Seattle Pacific University (20••••23) in Seattle, WA, where he guided the institution through the many technology related challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic rapid pivot to remote work and online learning. As CIO, he provided the vision, strategy, and direction needed to integrate technology and business intelligence across campus operations. Micah was an active member of SPU’s Senior Leadership Council, the Core Support Operations Team, and numerous other collaborative initiatives.Throughout his career, Micah has been committed to enhancing operational efficiency, increasing organizational transparency, empowering teams with data, and establishing himself as a strategic business partner who leverages technology to achieve organizational goals. Notable achievements include positioning IT as a trusted partner for the institution, streamlining operations, implementing DevOps and agile methodologies, reducing service outages, improving project success rates, building knowledge management programs, and advancing data-driven decision-making practices.In addition to his professional accomplishments, Micah is an engaged community leader. He has served on nonprofit boards, acts as an ambassador for ShelterBox USA, and volunteers as a motorcycle track day instructor for Optimum Performance Rider Training.

Experience

1. Chief Data Officer

   WaFd Bank

   Mar 2024 — Present · Seattle, WA, US

Education

• EDUCAUSE Institute

  Leadership Program

• Northwest Academic Computing Consortium

  CIO Leadership Development Program, Executive IT Leadership

• UW Foster School of Business

  Executive Master of Business Administration (MBA)

• Seattle Pacific University

  BA, Computer Science

  2000 — 2002

Skills

• Data Analysis
• Photography
• Microsoft Office
• System Architecture
• Database Administration
• Mysql
• IT Management
• Database Design
• Data Systems
• Systems Integration
• User Interface Design
• Issue Tracking
• Oracle
• Business Process
• Process Improvement
• Public Speaking
• Crm
• Itil
• Systems Architecture
• Wikis
• Troubleshooting
• Enterprise Software
• Enterprise Architecture
• Databases
• Integration
• Project Management
• Leadership
• Business Intelligence
• Operations Management
• Business Analysis
• Data Architecture
• Identity Management
• Higher Education
• Management
• Team Leadership
• Erp
• Analysis