Jim Swanson

CIO

Monsanto

Symposium Roles
Speaker/Panelist 2017
Panels Participated in
Expanding the Reach of Digital Innovation (2017)
Bio

Mr. Swanson, who began his tenure at Monsanto as CIO in 2013, leads a global team of over 1,000 information technology employees for the company’s operations, which span about 60 countries. He is responsible for enabling Monsanto’s digital transformation to an information-based company and delivering IT capabilities across all of Monsanto’s global business. The Information Technology organization has been recognized externally for contributions to Monsanto’s business through data science and digital transformation as well as supporting the development of emerging IT talent.  Mr. Swanson is a member of Monsanto’s Corporate Strategy Leadership Team, Global Business Operations Leadership Team and Executive Team Operations Council.

Prior to joining Monsanto, he held executive and scientific roles at Merck, Johnson & Johnson and SmithKline Beecham which included a two year secondment in Europe. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Bioscience and Biotechnology and a Master’s degree in computer science, both from Drexel University in Philadelphia. He is a member of the St. Louis CIO Board, Washington University’s Information Technology Advisory Council and the External Advisory Committee of the McDonnell International Scholars Academy at Washington University.

Mr. Swanson relocated to St Louis with his wife, Dana and three daughters, Hailie, Madison and Emma.  He spends his free time, running, biking, skiing, scuba diving and boating.  He also enjoys volunteering with the Greater St. Louis Honor Flight Organization, United Way Ready by 21 and the American Heart Association.