Building Trust: The People-First Approach in IT with Jane Livingston

This podcast episode features an interview with Jane Livingston, Vice President and Chief Information Officer for the University of Notre Dame, discussing her leadership philosophy of "people first, technology second." She reflects on fostering trust and a collaborative culture within Notre Dame's IT community, contrasting it with a prior "command and control" approach. Livingston emphasizes empowering staff through "headroom" for innovation and accountability, highlighting the importance of front-line IT consultants in identifying solutions and the need for continued learning in a rapidly changing technological landscape, particularly concerning AI. The episode concludes with rapid-fire questions about Livingston's personal preferences and the hosts' reflections on the podcast's first season and plans for future video episodes.TakeawaysJane Livingston has a diverse background in IT leadership across several universities.The IT community at Notre Dame has transformed to be more inclusive and communicative.Building trust within the IT community is essential for collaboration.A 'People First' approach is crucial in higher education IT leadership.Empathy and listening are key components in solving IT challenges.Innovation requires headroom and a culture that encourages risk-taking.Accountability is necessary alongside trust in a team environment.IT consultants have a unique perspective on the needs of the university.Continuous learning and engagement are vital for IT professionals.The future of IT at Notre Dame is focused on partnerships and collaboration.About this podcast:Behind the Screens: IT@ND is a podcast based out of the University of Notre Dame podcast where hosts Scott Russell (IT Director for the College of Arts & Letters), Krista Moats (Manager, IT Communications and Marketing: Office of Information Technology), and Diana Garcia (IT Support Technicin: Service Desk) give you a behind-the-scenes look at what IT consultancy is all about. Whether you're deep in the IT world or just curious about how technology powers a university, this podcast is for you.Each episode gives insight into Information Technology at Notre Dame — with focus on how IT consultants support the University, breaking down the challenges they face and the innovative solutions they create. From interviews with experts driving key campus projects to practical tips for making the most of your tech, this podcast explains how IT teams work behind the scenes to keep things running smoothly across campus.With this podcast, not only will you learn how technology professionals at Notre Dame help shape and support the future of the University, but you'll also get helpful insights and strategies to help you stay ahead.About this podcast:Behind the Screens: IT@ND is a podcast based out of the University of Notre Dame, where hosts Scott Russell (IT Director for the College of Arts & Letters) and Diana Garcia (IT Support Technician: Service Desk) give you a behind-the-scenes look at what IT consultancy is all about. Whether you're deep in the IT world or just curious about how technology powers a university, this podcast is for you.Each episode gives insight into Information Technology at Notre Dame — with focus on how IT consultants support the University, breaking down the challenges they face and the innovative solutions they create. From interviews with experts driving key campus projects to practical tips for making the most of your tech, this podcast explains how IT teams work behind the scenes to keep things running smoothly across campus.With this podcast, not only will you learn how technology professionals at Notre Dame help shape and support the future of the University, but you'll also get helpful insights and strategies to help you stay ahead.