John Rathje

Visionary
DISC Type : Ds

Vice President, Information Technology and CIO at Kent State University

Kent, Ohio, United States

Overview

John Rathje is the Vice President of Information Services and CIO at Kent State University, where he focuses on strategic direction and customer-focused technology solutions. He is an award-winning leader, recognized for driving innovation and operational excellence. He holds two degrees from Central Michigan University.

While his public profile is professionally focused, his career path across Michigan, Arkansas, and Ohio suggests an engagement with these communities. He likely follows the local college and professional sports teams associated with these regions.

Unique fact: John is the winner of the prestigious 2025 OhioCIO Corporate ORBIE Award for his exceptional leadership and innovation.

Personality Overview

Direct & Assertive

Big Vision Person

Risk Tolerant

They might take some time to make their mind up but once they do, they don't change it easily.  They exhibit a rare combination of being result-oriented but patient at the same time. Reading between the lines and seeing beyond your words comes naturally to them.

Topics They Care About

Higher Education IT
His entire career has been dedicated to advancing university missions through technology at institutions like Kent State and Central Michigan University.
Technology Innovation
Recognized as a leader who creates business value through technology innovation, earning him the 2025 OhioCIO ORBIE Award.
Strategic Collaboration
He actively promotes partnerships between universities and state organizations, believing in a "Better Together" approach to serving students.

Media Appearances

Establishing a Data Culture in Higher Ed with John Rathje from Kent State University. Featured in Ideate Podcast (Spotify)

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Vice President for Information Technology and Chief Information Officer. Featured in Kent State University

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Kent State University: Focusing on the Mission, Not the Technology to Communicate Enterprise IT Value. Featured in EDUCAUSE Review

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Work History

3-2018
Vice President, Information Technology and CIO at Kent State University
8-2015 - 3-2018
Associate Vice Chancellor/CIO at University of Arkansas at Little Rock
7-2013 - 7-2015
Assistant Dean/Technology at Central Michigan University College of Medicine
7-2012 - 7-2013
Interim Director of Technology at Central Michigan University College of Medicine
5-2006 - 7-2013
Director/Application Development at Central Michigan University

Education

1988 - 1991
MS from Central Michigan University
1984 - 1988
BS from Central Michigan University

More Information

Social Presence :

Prographics :

Exp : 20 Location : Kent, Ohio, United States Job Level : Leadership Designation : Vice President, Information Technology and CIO at Kent State University

Interested in

Sports

Football

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Insights For Selling To John

During A Call Or A Meeting

DO's

  • During followups, use phone or text if needed, they should be fine
  • Use phrases like 'your team deserves', 'best in class' etc.
  • Suggest clear next steps with confidence, don't be vague or hesitant

DONT's

  • Avoid putting conscious effort into relationship-building
  • Don't go over them unless you are left with no other option
  • Don't take their patience for granted, avoid long-winding sermons

When Cold Calling

When Writing An Email

While Negotiating & Closing

    The secret to closing fast with John is

  • Strong proof of impact and their conviction will matter the most, but they wouldn't want to act unilaterally either
  • Will you ever get a clear answer from John

  • They will say no if they are not convinced but you will have to prompt them.

Insights For Deal Planning

    How fast (or slow) will John move?

  • They will want to understand things well but can move fast once they have a clear picture.
  • Can John take some risk or not?

  • They have good risk tolerance but are likely to think it through once or twice.

You And John

Personality Compatibility


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