Hyun Lee

CIO at Perimeter Solutions

Can you please provide a little introduction about yourself

I have been established in St. Louis, Missouri for an extensive period, accumulating over 30 years of IT expertise across diverse industries including Chemical Manufacturing, Healthcare, and Retail industries. In my current role, I have served as the head of IT for six years, overseeing strategic technological initiatives and ensuring operational excellence within the organization.

What has your journey to your position been like? What path have you taken?

I started my IT journey at a renowned corporation, where I began as a systems analyst. Approaching this opportunity with boundless enthusiasm, eagerness to learn, energy, dedication, and unwavering loyalty, I embarked on a path of professional growth and achievement. Recognized early on by management for my capabilities, I swiftly ascended the career ladder through promotions, progressively assuming leadership roles such as IT manager, Director of Enterprise Applications, Regional Program Manager, and eventually Chief Information Officer.

Throughout this remarkable journey, I had the privilege of accumulating invaluable experiences spanning both operational and application realms across diverse industries including Chemical Manufacturing, Healthcare, and Retail. These experiences have enriched my understanding and expertise, equipping me to navigate and lead global projects and large teams effectively.

Has it always been your vision to reach the position you’re at? Was your current role part of your vision to become a tech leader?

Since my early days, I harbored aspirations of reaching the pinnacle of success. Despite not being a native English speaker, I refused to let the challenge of language barriers deter my determination and perseverance in pursuit of my goals. Through unwavering dedication, keen problem-solving skills, innovative thinking, a fervent passion for helping others, and a resolute "whatever it takes" mindset, I not only achieved my ambitions but surpassed them.

Have you had a role model or mentor that has helped you on your journey?

I was fortunate to have several mentors who guided me along my journey. Supported by my family's steadfast belief in my capabilities, I was encouraged to pursue my passions. In the early stages of my career, the CIO entrusted me with a significant challenge: leading the company's new and critical ERP system team, despite my lack of prior knowledge in the field. Their faith in me, combined with the support of others who believed in my abilities, cultivated courage and confidence within me, shaping me into a resilient and self-assured IT professional.

How do you see the role of the technology leader evolving over the next 5 years?

I anticipate that more technology leaders will be integrated into the company's leadership structure as integral members of the business units. These technology leaders will assume a pivotal role in enhancing the company's profitability, strategically positioning it for success, and fostering a broader organizational vision.

What skills do you think leaders of the future will need in order to thrive?

Technology leaders must possess strong business acumen and persuasive abilities. They should demonstrate forward-thinking and strategic alignment with the business objectives. Additionally, they need to exhibit effective and adaptable interpersonal skills, coupled with empathy, compassion, and courage.

How do you keep current with new skills, technologies and personal development?

Engage in professional development through attending webinars, participating in CIO conferences and networking events, and conducting independent research and learning endeavors.

What do you see as the next leap in technology that will impact your business or industry in particular?

AI and Business Intelligence will be indispensable for driving informed and strategic business decision-making.

"Cultivate your team's skills."

If you were mentoring a leader of the future, what advice or guidance would you give to help them on their way?

Keep up-to-date with technology advancements, cultivate your team's skills, and maintain strong relationships with the business, aligning with their initiatives and offering strategic technology solutions.

Is there anything in particular that you would still like to achieve in your career or what is the next step on your journey?

I am eager to continue making a meaningful impact by spearheading the company's digital transformation and leveraging data analytics to drive innovation and growth.

If you could change one thing in the world, what would it be? 

A big thank you to Hyun Lee from Perimeter Solutions for sharing her journey to date.

If you would like to gain more perspective from Tech Leaders and CIOs you can read some of our other interviews here.