Rakshan Syed
Division CIO, Resource Industries | Caterpillar Inc. | Enterprise Technology & AI-Driven Transformation | Board Advisor | Founder, Embolden Women
Embolden Women Global Movement•Peoria, Illinois, United States
View LinkedIn ProfileExecutive Overview
I help organizations navigate complex digital landscapes and turn ambitious strategies into measurable results. I have 25+ years of experience guiding companies through digital transformation, SaaS adoption, ERP modernization, AI-driven automation, and large-scale integrations, always with an eye toward delivering tangible business impact.I recently earned a certificate in AI Strategies for Business Transformation from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University, deepening my expertise in applying AI and generative AI to drive strategy, productivity, innovation, and measurable business outcomes.From accelerating enterprise AI initiatives to streamlining ERP and CRM deployments, my work consistently reduces costs, improves adoption, and strengthens operational resilience. Throughout my career, I have consistently delivered results that speak for themselves:Accelerated 182 AI-driven system integrations, cutting dealer readiness by 18 weeks and enabling $1.6B+ eCommerce growth.Directed 40+ ERP migrations and M&A integrations, reducing dealer costs by 40% while modernizing global digital platforms.Revitalized stalled digital initiatives into MVPs 9× faster and at 6.8× lower cost, scaling eCommerce to $1.6B+ and driving $55M+ in savings.Whether leading a $100M+ digital program, integrating acquisitions, or enabling global SaaS transformations, my goal is to ensure technology serves the business, and the people driving it, at its fullest potential. I am always eager to connect with professionals who believe in the power of technology to drive transformation. If you’re interested in collaborating or discussing how we can drive innovation together, feel free to reach out. Let’s connect and explore the possibilities for impactful change.
Career Timeline
- Oct 2025–Present· 1 yr
- Founder, BusinessCurrentOct 2025–Present
- Caterpillar Inc.CurrentJun 2000–Present· 26 yrs 4 mos
- Chief Information OfficerCurrent2026–Present
- Director, Digital ProductNov 2023–Dec 2025
- Senior Manager, Digital ProductNov 2021–Oct 2023
- Manager, Digital ProductsApr 2020–Oct 2021
- Manager, CommercialNov 2019–Mar 2020
- Senior Program Manager2017–Oct 2019
- Program Manager, DigitalApr 2014–Dec 2017
- Lead, Team OperationsApr 2011–Mar 2014
- Early Career - multiple positons Project Mgr, Deployment Mgr, Application AnalystJun 2000–Mar 2011
- 1998–May 2000· 2 yrs 4 mos
- Graduate Public Service Intern1998–May 2000
Education
Master of Science - MS
Management Information Systems, General
University of Illinois SpringfieldBachelor of Laws - LLB
Law
Bangalore UniversityAssociate's degree
Interior Design & Architecture
Exterior Interiors (p) LTD - Jenson & Nicholson