Heidi Neal

Technology Executive | Former CIO, Atmus Filtration Technologies | Led IPO Separation & Global IT Transformation

Cookeville, Tennessee, United States

About

In 2023, I had the opportunity to do something I’d never done before—build the technology foundation for a newly public company from the ground up. As CIO of Atmus Filtration Technologies, I led the separation of hundreds of systems from our former parent company, Cummins, while helping establish Atmus as an independent $1.7B global enterprise operating in 12 countries. There was no playbook. We were building infrastructure, cybersecurity, governance, and support capabilities in real time, under the visibility and pressure that comes with becoming a public company. It was one of the most challenging and meaningful experiences of my career. I started my career as a programmer and spent 27 years growing into broader leadership roles. That foundation shaped how I lead today. I understand technology deeply, but I’ve also learned that success is rarely about the technology itself—it’s about helping people and organizations move forward with confidence, especially during periods of uncertainty and change. More recently, I’ve worked closely with executive leadership and the board to shape our approach to artificial intelligence. I led discussions to identify meaningful use cases, align on where AI could create real value, and ensure we were building the right foundation to adopt generative AI thoughtfully and responsibly. Earlier in my career, I oversaw the deployment of machine learning solutions supporting business and operational goals. What I enjoy most about leadership is building strong teams and helping create environments where people can do their best work. Technology plays a critical role in that, but it’s ultimately about trust, clarity, and shared purpose. Highlights from my experience include: • CIO through IPO separation, establishing independent global IT capabilities for a $1.7B public company • Built enterprise technology, cybersecurity, and governance capabilities from the ground up • Led executive and board engagement to prioritize and prepare for adoption of AI • Oversaw deployment of machine learning solutions supporting operational performance • Led 300+ person global technology teams supporting operations across 12 countries I’m particularly drawn to opportunities where technology can help organizations navigate inflection points—whether that’s separation, growth, or adopting new capabilities like AI.

Experience

  • Chief Information Officer at Atmus Filtration Technologies
    2023 - 2025 · 2 yrs

    Served as the first Chief Information Officer of a newly public global filtration company (NYSE: ATMU) following its IPO and separation from Cummins. Built and led the independent global IT function, enabling the company to operate as a standalone $1.7B public enterprise across 12 countries. Led the full technology separation, including disentanglement of hundreds of enterprise systems, establishment of independent infrastructure and cybersecurity capabilities, and successful exit from transition services agreements—while ensuring continuity of global business operations. Built enterprise IT capabilities from the ground up, including cybersecurity, infrastructure, HRIS, and finance systems. Established governance, operating models, and global support structures to enable scalability, resilience, and long-term growth. Partnered closely with executive leadership and the board to align technology strategy with business priorities, including shaping the organization’s approach to artificial intelligence through executive engagement, use case prioritization, and readiness alignment. Led a global organization of 70 employees and 300+ contractors across 12 countries, with responsibility for enterprise technology strategy, operations, and a multi-million-dollar budget.

  • Cummins Inc. (25 yrs 1 mo)
    • Divisional CIO, Cummins Filtration
      2020 - 2023 · 3 yrs

      Divisional CIO focused on preparing the Cummins Filtration business for separation from Cummins via IPO yet also ensuring divisional success amidst change (boosted revenue, implemented new tech, and reduced costs). Managed a team of 25 employees and 100+ contractors with a significant operations budget.

    • IT Strategy & Joint Venture Director, Cummins Components Group
      2014 - 2020 · 6 yrs

      Oversaw global IT strategy and planning for a $6B business segment comprised of five businesses (Electronics, Emissions Solutions, Filtration, Fuel Systems, and Turbo Technologies) with 75 locations in 13 countries. Represented the IT function on the Components Quality Executive Team and on the Eaton-Cummins Joint Venture Executive Team. Served as IT executive business relationship manager between the two companies.

    • Filtration IT Leader (Business Unit CIO)
      2010 - 2014 · 4 yrs

      Led teams and financials as IT head for the Cummins Filtration business unit, accountable for the delivery of Supply Chain, Marketing / Sales, and Engineering systems for the business. Partnered with the Executive Leadership Team to set strategic direction for the business unit.