Melanie Kalmar

Former CIO and Chief Digital Officer | MCWT Advisory Board Member | 2022 National Super Global Orbie Award Winner | Forbes CIO Next list - 50 top tech leaders

Midland, Michigan, United States

About

As an IT and digital leader, I understand the importance of keywords. So, what better way to introduce myself and describe my work and passions than with a few strategic keywords: -Grateful. I’ve spent my entire career with Dow, and I’m grateful for the opportunities I’ve had to grow, learn, explore and lead in the exciting field of information technology. -Original. I think back to the many times in my career, including college, when I was the only woman in the room, so I know what it’s like to be one of the first, original woman leaders in the IT space. I’ve always known what I’m good at, and with hard work and perseverance, I thought I could make a difference. -Authentic. I’ve always tried to stay grounded by being my authentic self and staying true to my values and dreams. -Advocate. Today, I’m a passionate advocate for STEM careers, mentorship and women in technology. I serve as an advisory board member of the Michigan Council for Women in Technology, and I’m a member of the Dean’s Council for Central Michigan University School of Business. -Inclusive. I’m also focused on driving my company’s diversity, equity and inclusion strategy as a member of the President’s Inclusion Council and executive sponsor for PRIME, the employee resource group focused on engaging our 50+ population. -Animal Lover. I’m an unapologetic animal lover, a supporter of the Humane Society and a strong advocate for animal rescue. -Learn more about me here: https://corporate.dow.com/en-us/about/company/leadership/melanie-kalmar.html

Experience

  • Dow (38 yrs 3 mos)
    • Corporate Vice President, Chief Information Officer & Chief Digital Officer
      Apr 2019 - Mar 2025 · 6 yrs

      I am responsible for driving the global strategy for digital capabilities and process solutions to advance Dow’s growth. I continue to lead Dow’s digital transformation, overseeing the global Information Systems organization, cybersecurity, risk management, reporting and advanced analytics and facilities management. As chair of the Executive Steering Team for Digital advancement, I collaborate with fellow Dow executives on the overarching vision and corporate priorities, allocating resources and managing overall risk for IT and digital investments.

    • Chief Information Officer
      Aug 2016 - Apr 2019 · 2 yrs 9 mos

      I was responsible for implementing Dow’s IT strategy, including business process solutions for analytics, cybersecurity, risk management and facilities management. At the epicenter of Dow’s critical merger and acquisition projects, I oversaw teams developing and implementing the IT strategy for these activities.

    • IT Leadership Roles
      2004 - Aug 2016 · 12 yrs 8 mos

      I drove advanced global reporting and e-commerce capabilities. I facilitated a large SAP implementation and helped spearhead an information systems Information Technology and Operations Technology launch for Dow’s joint venture with Saudi Aramco.