Richard Strong Email & Phone Number

Bonita Springs, Fl, Us

Estero, Florida, United States

As a leader at Hertz Global, a $9B global car rental company encompassing the Hertz, Dollar, and Thrifty brands, I drive transformational initiatives by partnering with C-level executives. My role involves guiding the development and execution of a forward-looking vision, aligning strategies, and overseeing tactical projects to enhance organizational performance and innovation.

Chicago, Illinois, United States

As a senior IT leader and advisor for Blommer Chocolate Company, North America's largest cocoa processor and ingredient supplier, I drove the technology strategy and solutions to ensure continuous and reliable technical operations.- Developed a comprehensive technology strategy to modernize critical business and manufacturing systems, including SAP.- Launched an IT transformation plan that introduced agile methodologies and established product ownership.- Modernized technology business practices in areas such as financial management, portfolio development, prioritization, and sourcing for enhanced efficiency and effectiveness.

Chicago, Il / Denver, Co

As the Executive IT Leader for SC Labs, a $27M licensed life sciences start-up specializing in cannabis, hemp, and product testing services, I ensure that cultivators and infused product manufacturers can confidently bring their products to market.- Established sustainable IT capabilities aligned with the company’s strategic goals.- Successfully merged and integrated two acquired lab service companies into the SC Labs technology ecosystem, enhancing operational synergies.- Modernized the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS), including the development and launch of new potency tests across CO, CA, OR, and MI.

Global, Chicago, Milwaukee, Dallas, And Reno

As the Global IT Leader at Harley-Davidson Motor Company, a $5 billion motorcycle manufacturer with a presence in nearly 100 countries and a workforce of over 3,000 employees, I spearheaded technology solutions and services for our global network of dealerships. This included implementing retail systems, order and inventory management, as well as supply chain solutions for motorcycles, parts, accessories, general merchandise, and warranty management.I successfully delivered innovative virtual and online capabilities for product launches, while ensuring the seamless operation of our Contact Center. I led international IT teams and cultivated strong relationships across various regions, including Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and Europe, enhancing collaboration and alignment on IT initiatives.

Global, Milwaukee, Chicago, Plano, And Carson City

As a global IT leader at Harley-Davidson, I championed the philosophy of “running IT as a business” across all company divisions. I developed comprehensive IT strategic plans and tactical initiatives, building robust relationships with customers, supplier partners, regulators, C-suite executives, business leaders, stakeholders, and IT personnel.Overseeing a dedicated team of 333 professionals and 500+ contractors, alongside managing relationships with 200+ suppliers, including Managed Services partners, I established the Technology Supplier Management Office. I spearheaded key innovations in Robotic Process Automation (RPA) and Artificial Intelligence (AI), while modernizing IT business programs and processes through Agile and ITIL frameworks.I effectively managed a $180 million annual budget for operations and led 30+ technology development projects across 18 sites in 10 countries, delivering impactful technology financial results.

Greater Milwaukee Area

Global leader driving the transformation and continuous improvement of the IT Department in terms of how it operates and its future position to deliver company business objectives from North American-based to a Global service organization.

Chicago, Milwaukee, Dallas, And Reno

Senior IT leader for Harley-Davidson Financial Services, a $973M global consumer and commercial financial services family of companies, delivering technology to market, sell, issue, and service motorcycle retail loans and insurance products; to provide and service dealership commercial loans, incentive and loyalty programs, and dealership retail operations; and, finally, to ensure compliant technology for banking operations.- Expanded customer digital experience by introducing texting, guest pay, ecommerce, online applications, virtual loans, and retail home delivery – overall sales increased by 5%.- Created the Certified Pre-Own Motorcycle Program; drove $15M of accessory product sales. - Launched HD1 Online Marketplace; the world’s largest online marketplace for Used HD motorcycles.- Reduced costs by leveraging Intelligent Automation, RPA, and Azure Cloud Services – 90% of loan decisions completed automatically.

Milwaukee, Wi

Introduced and applied portfolio and project management methodologies, skills, governance, and tools to the Marketing organization - leveraged in the development, introduction, and marketing of new products (Miller Chill) at Miller Brewing Company, an American brewery and beer company based in Milwaukee, WI.

Sturtevant, Wi

Senior IT global leader for JohnsonDiversey, a $2.6B global provider of cleaning and hygiene products in the hospitality, healthcare, food and beverage, food service, and retail & facility management sectors. Directed the IT Project Management Office (PMO) consisting of 20 Project Managers located worldwide, delivered over 150+ strategic, functional, regional, and operational projects annually as aligned to the company strategy, and lead special projects as designated by the owner, CFO, and CIO. Major successes included: Acquiring and integrating DiverseyLever into Johnson, merging several Japanese company acquisitions into Johnson, rolling out ERP globally, and introducing global CRM.

Milwaukee, Wi

Oversaw the creation, launch, and operations of business systems for newly established business delivery channels between Rockwell Automation and its distributors.

West Allis, Wi

Oversaw all technology portfolios that enables businesses to control their manufacturing processes, technology, and equipment effectively and efficiently. Lead the information technology team focusing on providing best-in-class I.T. services for software product development, manufacturing and distribution, customer support, and overall company operations including H.R. and Finance.

Milwaukee, Wi

Managed technology projects and systems for Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company and Baird that monitor selling practices and ensure compliance with both securities and state insurance laws. Assist in fraud and complaint investigations, compliance submissions, and best practices and continuing education training of the field sales force.

Master Of Business Administration (Mba), Information Technology

Bachelor Of Business Administration (B.B.A.), Management Information Systems, General