University of Sydney finds permanent CIDO

The University of Sydney has named Josh Roberts as its chief information and digital officer (CIDO).

Josh Roberts, University of Sydney
LinkedIn

Roberts takes over from Kerry Holling, who has been interim CIDO for a bit over a year. The role is an evolution of the previous CIO position at the university, which was last held by Sandie Matthews.

Roberts first joined the university in 2023 as executive director of digital operations, before becoming executive director of the Digital Sydney program - work that led to him being named education technology leader at the iTnews Benchmark Awards.

He will start as CIDO of the university on September 21.

In an internal announcement sighted and verified by iTnews, the university's vice president of operations Nicole Gower wrote that Roberts' appointment "provides continuity and stability for the Digital Sydney program as we move into the next stage of this important work, as well as for the broader ICT function and new ICT operating model."

"Having led the Digital Sydney program, developed the 2026 implementation plan and established key foundations for our long-term digital strategy, Josh is uniquely positioned to continue driving momentum from his new role while leading ICT to ensure our digital, data and technology services remain reliable, secure and focused on delivering value for our staff, students and researchers," Gower wrote.

The university said it will start looking for a new executive director for Digital Sydney soon.