CSIRO’s Chief Information Officer Declares Retirement
We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission which is paid directly to our Australia-based writers, editors, and support staff. Thank you for your support!
Brendan Dalton, CSIRO’s Chief Information Officer, Announces His Retirement
Brendan Dalton, who holds the position of Chief Information Officer at CSIRO, has declared his retirement after almost ten years of dedicated service. Dalton has played a pivotal role in formulating the IT strategy of the organization and is set to depart from CSIRO by year-end. The renowned Australian research institution is currently on the hunt for a new CIO to steer its forthcoming digital transformation initiatives.
Quick Insights
- Brendan Dalton, taking his leave as CSIRO’s CIO, will retire by year-end after a nine-year tenure.
- Dalton also managed the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) position from March 2022 until the appointment of Jamie Rossato in September 2023.
- CSIRO is in search of a new CIO to propel its IT aspirations and strategic direction, with an emphasis on innovation and digital advancement.
- The new CIO will be tasked with overseeing the Virga high-performance computer (HPC) developed by Dell and managing the upgrade of CSIRO’s essential enterprise platforms by 2027.
- Focus on upcoming technologies and adherence to cybersecurity protocols will be crucial for the succeeding CIO.
Leadership Change at CSIRO: Brendan Dalton’s Departure
After nearly nine years as the Chief Information Officer (CIO) at CSIRO (Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation), Brendan Dalton has officially announced his retirement. Dalton has been integral to CSIRO’s IT initiatives, guiding the organization through substantial digital advancements and managing essential projects that have kept CSIRO at the forefront of technology.
Throughout his time, Dalton led the strategic vision for CSIRO’s IT framework. His tenure was marked by the implementation of new technologies, the promotion of innovation, and the assurance of secure and adaptive IT solutions.
Dalton’s Contributions as CIO and CISO
Beside his responsibilities as CIO, Dalton also fulfilled the role of Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) from March 2022 until September 2023. This dual role underscored the growing significance of cybersecurity in the contemporary IT landscape, particularly for a prominent organization like CSIRO. His oversight in both areas helped guarantee the security of CSIRO’s IT systems while facilitating technological progress.
Dalton concluded his time as CISO when Jamie Rossato was appointed the new CISO in September 2023, allowing Dalton to concentrate on his CIO duties leading up to his retirement.
Main Duties of the Incoming CIO
CSIRO is currently searching for a new CIO who can not only carry on Dalton’s legacy but also guide the organization into its next digital transformation phase. The upcoming Chief Information Officer will need to create and implement an IT vision and strategic framework that aligns with CSIRO’s objectives of advancing scientific and technological frontiers.
According to CSIRO’s job listing, the new CIO is expected to be both a “pragmatic and inspirational leader.” They will oversee the implementation of innovative and effective information governance and cybersecurity measures, ensuring the proper management of CSIRO’s information systems and IT infrastructure.
Emphasis on Innovation and Cybersecurity Compliance
The new CIO will be required to evaluate innovative, emerging technologies and guide a digital transformation in accordance with regulatory standards. Cybersecurity remains a pressing issue for organizations worldwide, and CSIRO is no different. The CIO must effectively manage IT and security-related risks while ensuring the seamless operation of all IT systems.
Management of Virga: CSIRO’s High-Performance Computer
A key responsibility of the incoming CIO will involve overseeing CSIRO’s Dell-designed high-performance computer (HPC), Virga. This advanced computing system plays a vital role in CSIRO’s research and innovation activities, facilitating intricate simulations and data evaluations across various scientific fields.
Enterprise Resource Planning and Research Management Revamp by 2027
Another major undertaking for the incoming CIO will be the ongoing replacement of two key enterprise platforms at CSIRO. These systems, which include an SAP-based enterprise resource planning (ERP) system and a proprietary research management platform, are slated for replacement by 2027, with the new CIO spearheading a smooth transition.
This initiative forms part of CSIRO’s broader strategy to modernize its IT infrastructure and enhance its expanding research activities. The updated systems will be essential in enabling improved resource management, research oversight, and operational efficiency.
Conclusion
The retirement of Brendan Dalton signifies the conclusion of a significant chapter in CSIRO’s IT leadership. With nearly ten years in office, Dalton has made substantial contributions to the digital transformation efforts of the organization. As CSIRO gazes toward the future, the next CIO will carry the vital responsibility of advancing the institution’s IT vision, concentrating on innovation, cybersecurity, and the overhaul of core enterprise systems by 2027.
Q: What are the reasons for Brendan Dalton’s retirement?
A:
Brendan Dalton is retiring after nearly nine years of service in the role of CSIRO’s Chief Information Officer. While no explicit reasons have been provided for his departure, it’s common for individuals in senior positions to conclude their roles after lengthy tenures.
Q: What will the main responsibilities of the new CIO entail?
A:
The new CIO will be responsible for shaping and executing CSIRO’s IT vision and strategic initiatives. This includes managing the organization’s IT systems, directing the operation of the Dell-built Virga high-performance computer, and overseeing the replacement of core enterprise platforms by 2027.
Q: What was Brendan Dalton’s function as CISO?
A:
Besides his CIO responsibilities, Brendan Dalton also acted as CSIRO’s Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) from March 2022 until September 2023. During this time, he was charged with ensuring the cybersecurity of CSIRO’s IT infrastructure, working to minimize potential risks and protect sensitive data.
Q: What is the Virga high-performance computer?
A:
Virga is CSIRO’s Dell-built high-performance computer (HPC). It is essential for facilitating advanced scientific research by managing large-scale simulations and data processing. The management of Virga will be a crucial task for the incoming CIO.
Q: Which enterprise systems are set to be replaced by 2027?
A:
CSIRO is in the process of replacing two primary enterprise systems: an SAP-based enterprise resource planning (ERP) system and a custom-built research management system. These platforms are scheduled for replacement by 2027, and the incoming CIO will supervise this transition.
