Jim Chilton, our Chief Information Officer, was recently added to the Cengage team. Jim has 25 years of experience in software and technology, and has a strong background in start-ups as well as larger companies. He was most recently the CIO of Dassault Systems, where he managed teams to support the multi-billion-dollar global business. Later, he became a go-to market strategy role for SaaS-based products and SaaS.
Jim is a natural at Cengage. He has already made an impact helping students gain the confidence, momentum and determination they need to reach their educational and personal goals. Jim took time out of his busy schedule to talk with us about his life outside of work, his vision for the role, and his personal life.
What is it that excites you about working in education and technology?
Cengage is a company I am excited to join for many reasons. First, as a long-standing technology strategist, I am excited to see digital product revolutions transform customer experiences and improve customer experience. I have a lot of experience in leading and supporting change and am excited to be part of the Cengage transformation.
Second, I am a father to four children, and three of them are currently enrolled at college. I was also a self-funded college student years ago. I spent nights and weekends getting my Bachelor’s degree and then my MBA. Cengage was inspired by me as a non-traditional student. Digital options would have been a huge help to me. Digital is helping my children today. I am thrilled to have the opportunity to create better learning experiences and outcomes in my students’ lives.
What is the CIO at Cengage doing? What will you be focusing on?
In the last ten years, the role of the CIO has evolved dramatically as technology has facilitated a greater integration between customers, employees, partners, and other stakeholders. I will be working closely with the team to transform Cengage to a digital enterprise that uses integrated platforms to improve customer service at all stages of the customer lifecycle. This will ultimately help us achieve our goal of better serving learners. Everything is for the customer.
Tell us about yourself. What do you do with your spare time?
My four amazing children, three of whom are in college, get a lot more of my attention. They are my weakness and I am a huge sports car enthusiast. I am a huge workout fanatic and focus on HIIT (or high intensity interval training). I still play beach volleyball in summer and snowboard in winter. My age will eventually force me to play golf. However, I am trying to put off that decision for as long as possible.

Jim, we are very grateful!
These articles will provide more information about Jim:
Boston Business Journal: People on the Move
BostInno – The BostInno Beat