Mike Maresca
Chief Technology & Information Officer
Ulta Beauty
Mike Maresca is the Chief Technology & Information Officer for Ulta Beauty, an innovative $11 billion U.S. beauty retailer. As the Chief Technology and Information Officer, Mike leads with a deep passion for technology and its ability to create memorable guest experiences, empower our more than 50,000 associates, and lead the strategic growth of the Ulta Beauty business.
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Give us a brief overview of the path that led to your current role.
I have always had a passion for business, people and technology. After finishing my education in engineering, I started a career in consulting at Accenture, working across the retail and consumer industries. In 2012, I moved from consulting to corporate IT at Accenture, where I helped transform Accenture's core business with technology.
After a 25-year career at Accenture, I moved to Walgreens Boots Alliance as the Global Chief Technology Officer to help define and deliver foundational technology for the company. After 3 years at WBA, I moved to my current position at Ulta Beauty where I have the honor of leading a talented technology team for one of the most innovative companies in retail.
What is one of your guiding leadership principles?
Integrity is the first principle. It drives openness, transparency and commitment.
What is the greatest challenge CIOs face today?
Talent. You win with people when you have great culture and innovative work.
What is the key to success for someone just starting out as a CIO?
Building relationships across the C-suite is essential.
How do you measure success as a leader?
Vision and execution. You need both to be successful.
What is the value of being a member of the Evanta community?
Evanta provides access to invaluable networking and learning opportunities. The role of today's technology leader is challenging in this fast paced industry. Having a network of peers to connect and collaborate with is so important.
Evanta Governing Body members share their insights and leadership perspectives to shape the agendas and topics that address the top priorities impacting business leaders today.
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