In this podcast episode, Tracy Lee, the host of the Engineering Leadership series, interviews Danyel Bischof-Forsyth, the Chief Technology Officer (CTO) of Tyson Foods. The episode provides insights into Danyel’s journey to becoming the CTO of Tyson Foods and discusses her role in leading technology initiatives within the company.
Danyel introduces herself as the CTO of Tyson Foods and shares her background, which includes being a computer science graduate with an MBA. She started her career in technology 33 years ago and previously held the position of Business Unit CIO for Hallmark Cards.
The conversation then moves to Danyel’s decision to move to Tyson Foods. She explains that the opportunity to lead technology transformation in a company that was rapidly growing and investing in digital technology intrigued her. She highlights her willingness to take on new challenges, learn about different industries, and work with emerging technologies as key factors in her career choice.
Danyel also discusses the exciting technologies Tyson Foods has been implementing. These technologies include computer vision, IoT sensors, artificial intelligence, and predictive analytics. She explains how these technologies are used to monitor and optimize various aspects of Tyson Foods' operations, such as production lines, employee safety, and product quality.
Tracy and Danyel speak about the decision-making process for technology initiatives at Tyson Foods. She describes a structured approach that involves a technology committee comprising C-suite members and their delegates who prioritize technology projects based on their value to the organization. The committee uses a scoring process to make these decisions.
The episode also covers Tyson Foods' three-year technology roadmap, which aligns with the company's business goals. Danyel explains that her team works closely with business units to integrate technology into their strategic plans. They prioritize projects based on their potential impact and align them with the roadmap.
Tracy asks about Tyson Foods' approach to innovation. Danyel reveals that the company encourages innovation through an initiative that involves generating ideas, investigating them, piloting select ideas, and scaling the most promising ones. She emphasizes the importance of fostering a culture of innovation.
The conversation shifts to Danyel’s involvement in women in technology programs. She shares that she has initiated and led women in tech programs at both Hallmark Cards and Tyson Foods. These programs aim to connect, grow, and inspire women in the technology field. They offer mentorship, training, and networking opportunities.
Tracy and Danyel discuss the significance of having a clear mission and goals for women in tech programs, as well as the importance of retaining women in technology roles.
In summary, this podcast episode explores Danyel’s journey to becoming CTO, the technology initiatives at Tyson Foods, the decision-making process for technology projects, technology roadmaps, innovation strategies, and women in technology programs. It provides valuable insights into the role of a CTO in a leading company and the evolving landscape of technology in the food industry.
