Richard Kesner is chief knowledge officer and CIO. He brings to Hurwitz Group 20 years of experience in information technology management, enterprise technology integration, planning and project management, and knowledge management. In his role, Kesner will drive the implementation of a knowledge management system, which will enhance Hurwitz Group’s uniquely collaborative approach to research and consulting.

"This position gives me an opportunity to apply my research and knowledge management skills to an organization which views research and individual knowledge as its most valuable assets," said Kesner. "Hurwitz Group has highly ambitious corporate goals, and I’m very excited to be part of the executive team that will accomplish them."

Prior to joining Hurwitz Group, Kesner was vice president of e-Commerce planning and knowledge management for MetLife eCommerce, where he oversaw e-Commerce and knowledge management initiatives with budgets totaling more than $120m. Kesner also was vice president for planning and enterprise technology integration for New England Financial Information Services, a subsidiary of MetLife. In this role, he served as principal technology strategist and chief of staff for the company’s 900-person IT organization.

Kesner has also served as CIO for Babson College, vice president for development and systems for The Parkman Companies, and vice president for general services and MIS for Multibank Financial Corporation.

He holds an M.A. and PhD in history, economics, and information science from Stanford University, along with post-doctoral certificates in financial analysis, strategic planning, and management information systems from the Wharton School. He has received several fellowships and research grants from institutions such as Wayne State University, the National Endowment for the Humanities, the National Historical and Publications Records Commission, and the University of London.