DDI, a renowned global leadership firm, has made significant changes to its leadership team, appointing Julie Simmons as Chief Information Officer effective April 1, 2024, and promoting Dr. Doug Reynolds to Chief Science Officer.
In her new role, Julie Simmons will drive DDI’s global technology strategy for its suite of leadership products and internal data and systems infrastructure. She will oversee the company’s global technology function, including Product and Data Engineering, Enterprise Business Systems, and Global Technology Services.
David Tessmann-Keys, President of DDI, expressed excitement about the appointment, citing Julie’s extensive experience in technology strategy and exemplary leadership skills that will propel DDI’s technology teams forward.
Julie Simmons, based in Salt Lake City, UT, joins DDI from her previous position as Chief Information Officer at Swire Coca-Cola, where she played a pivotal role in advancing the company’s IT capabilities and spearheading initiatives in data architecture, cybersecurity, and infrastructure operations.
Before her tenure at Swire Coca-Cola, Simmons co-founded ForgeDX, a SaaS platform focused on accelerating technology adoption, and held IT executive roles at Omnicom, a global leader in marketing, media, and communications.
Meanwhile, Dr. Doug Reynolds, a 27-year veteran of DDI, has been promoted to Chief Science Officer. He is widely respected in the field of industrial-organizational psychology and has made significant contributions to DDI’s research and practice at the intersection of psychology and technology.
In his new role, Dr. Reynolds will concentrate on advancing the science and application of assessment, particularly focusing on the ethical and responsible use of artificial intelligence. He will also oversee DDI’s research and development efforts and investments in innovative startup companies within the learning and assessment industry.
Dr. Tacy M. Byham, CEO of DDI, praised Dr. Reynolds’ expertise in industrial-organizational psychology and highlighted his crucial role in driving DDI’s commitment to scientific excellence. She emphasized the importance of his leadership as DDI navigates the evolving landscape of AI and innovation.
Dr. Reynolds, a past president of the Society of Industrial-Organizational Psychology, is also an accomplished author and editor of various books and serves on the boards of several startup companies, further demonstrating his leadership and expertise in the field.
