James Rinaldi is a distinguished information technology executive with an illustrious career spanning various leadership roles in both the public and private sectors. A seasoned professional, he served as the Chief Information Officer (CIO) for NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory, managed by Caltech, showcasing his expertise in managing complex IT ecosystems.

His remarkable tenure at Caltech lasted for 14 years, during which he not only excelled as the CIO but also contributed significantly as the Chief Technology Advisor to the Director for the remaining three years. In 2022, James retired from Caltech, leaving behind a legacy of strategic IT leadership and innovation.

Currently, James holds the position of Executive Director at Innovate@UCLA, where he continues to leverage his wealth of experience to drive innovation and technological advancement. Additionally, he serves as the Chair of Avasant's Fellows Program and is an active member of Avasant's Fellows Executive Committee. As a Fellow at Innovation for Large

Organizations, James brings his unique insights and expertise to contribute to the advancement of technology on a broader scale.

James has extended his influence in the corporate landscape by serving as a board advisor for Pandoblox and 3GC companies, and MORI Associates. Furthermore, his consultancy role with Phenomenati reflects his commitment to providing strategic guidance and expertise in the dynamic field of information technology.

With a rich background in Information Technology, James has accumulated valuable experience in senior management roles with notable organizations such as FDA, IRS, and Marriott International. His early career involved software development, operations, and project management, showcasing his versatility and comprehensive understanding of the IT landscape.

James has been honored with prestigious awards, including the CIO 100, Fed 100, and induction into the CIO Hall of Fame. Notably, the information technology organizations under his leadership have consistently earned recognition as "Best Places to Work" for many years, attesting to his commitment to fostering positive workplace cultures.

Beyond his professional achievements, James is a well-rounded individual with diverse interests. He finds joy in reading, indulges in a round of golf, and remains passionate about exploring emerging technologies. An engaging speaker, James frequently delivers talks on management, strategy, and future technologies, sharing his wealth of knowledge and inspiring others in the ever-evolving world of information technology.