#United States #Chicago #Charter Next Generation #technology strategy #Mike Manke

Charter Next Generation Seizes New Opportunities with CIO Appointment

Charter Next Generation (CNG), recognized for its innovative contributions to material science solutions, is making significant strides in its technological advancement with the recent appointment of Mike Manke as Chief Information Officer. This role, which has been newly established, positions Manke to lead the company’s enterprise technology strategy, crucial for navigating the company's upcoming growth phase.

Located in Chicago, CNG has expressed a clear intention to bolster its technological capabilities as an engine for enhanced operational performance and scalability across its extensive operations. As per the company’s Chairman and CEO, Kathy Bolhous, technology is becoming a foundational pillar for CNG as it expands. She emphasized its criticality, stating, “As CNG continues to grow in scale and complexity, technology is becoming increasingly important to how we run the business and compete.”

A Wealth of Experience

Mike Manke brings more than 30 years of extensive technology and transformation experience to his new position. His most recent role was as CIO at PremiStar, where he successfully orchestrated a multi-year technology strategy that emphasized unified enterprise platforms along with heightened data capabilities and advanced initiatives in digital and artificial intelligence. Furthermore, he has participated in prominent roles at Stericycle, where he was Senior Vice President of Enterprise Architecture, Digital, and Innovation, helping to navigate major transformations within that company’s digital ecosystem.

Manke's career has intersected with numerous leading firms, including Baxter, W.W. Grainger, Olin, and Duracell, where he played integral roles in shaping and implementing innovative technology strategies aimed at enhancing business performance. His robust background positions him as an ideal leader for CNG’s technology endeavors.

Vision for the Future

Expressing his eagerness for the position, Manke articulated, “CNG has a significant opportunity to turn technology and data into a greater operating advantage. My focus will be on identifying where technology can create the most value for the business, strengthening our existing foundation, and providing our teams with improved data for faster, more informed decision-making. I’m excited to help build the capabilities that CNG needs for what comes next.”

In terms of educational credentials, Mike Manke earned a Bachelor’s degree in Management and Quantitative Methods, concentrating on Information Systems, from Illinois State University. This educational foundation, combined with his extensive experience, equips him to take on the ambitious objectives set forth as CNG continues to lead in sustainable material science solutions.

Commitment to Innovation

CNG has established itself as a leader in sustainable material solutions across various sectors, including food packaging, consumer goods, industrial, and healthcare markets. With 18 facilities spread across the U.S. and a workforce exceeding 2,700 employee-owners, CNG is committed to fostering innovation while addressing global challenges, such as waste reduction and climate resilience.

The appointment of Manke as CIO aligns with CNG’s ongoing dedication to leveraging technology as a strategic asset that promotes both growth and long-term success. As the company emphasizes shared success through employee ownership, Manke’s role will be pivotal in shaping CNG’s digital future, ensuring it continues to thrive in a technologically evolving landscape.

For further information on CNG, its products, and its leadership team, visit their official website at cnginc.com. Follow them on LinkedIn to stay updated with their latest developments.