University of Memphis Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

The University of Memphis has 6 executives leading key functions including information technology, human resources, and operations management.

Driven by a commitment to academic excellence, University of Memphis provides comprehensive undergraduate, graduate, and law programs, fostering research and innovation within the Memphis, Tennessee community and beyond.

Leadership Roles at University of Memphis

  • Chief Information Officer - Ellen Watson
  • Vice President, Information Technology & Chief Information Officer - Douglas Hurley
  • Associate Chief Information Officer - Karen Bell
  • Chief Human Resources Officer - Maria Alam
  • Associate Vice President & Managing Director - Byron Morgan
  • Team Captain - Pamela Thomas
  • Ellen Watson - Chief Information Officer

    Ellen Watson, the Chief Information Officer at University of Memphis, directs the institution's overall technology strategy and infrastructure. Overseeing all IT operations, Watson ensures the seamless integration of digital resources to support academic and administrative functions across the Memphis campus. This leadership role involves managing cybersecurity initiatives, data governance, and the implementation of new technological solutions that enhance the student and faculty experience. Watson's strategic vision drives the university's digital transformation, ensuring robust and secure systems that facilitate research, learning, and operational efficiency. By optimizing network performance and supporting advanced computing resources, Ellen Watson directly contributes to the university's mission of providing cutting-edge educational opportunities and advancing scholarly pursuits within the United States.

    Douglas Hurley - Vice President, Information Technology & Chief Information Officer

    Douglas Hurley, the Vice President, Information Technology & Chief Information Officer at University of Memphis, spearheads the strategic direction and operational execution of all information technology services. Hurley's purview encompasses the development and maintenance of the university's technological backbone, ensuring its alignment with institutional goals. This executive function involves leading teams responsible for network infrastructure, enterprise systems, and digital learning platforms, all critical to the University of Memphis's research and educational endeavors. By fostering innovation in IT, Hurley enhances the university's capacity for advanced research and provides essential digital tools for students and faculty. The operational scale of this role extends across the entire Memphis institution, supporting its public research mission and commitment to academic programs throughout the United States.

    Karen Bell - Associate Chief Information Officer

    Karen Bell, the Associate Chief Information Officer at University of Memphis, supports the Chief Information Officer in managing the institution's extensive technology landscape. Bell's responsibilities include overseeing the day-to-day operations of IT departments, ensuring the reliability and efficiency of critical systems that underpin the university's academic and research activities. This leadership position involves coordinating IT projects, managing vendor relationships, and implementing policies that enhance service delivery across the Memphis campus. Bell's focus on operational excellence ensures that technology resources effectively support the University of Memphis's mission to provide high-quality undergraduate, graduate, and law programs. By driving continuous improvement in IT services, Karen Bell plays a vital part in maintaining the technological infrastructure necessary for scholarly advancement and student success within the United States.

    Maria Alam - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Maria Alam, the Chief Human Resources Officer at University of Memphis, directs all human capital strategies and operations for the institution. Alam's executive function involves cultivating a supportive and productive work environment for faculty and staff across the Memphis campus, aligning HR policies with the university's overarching mission. This role encompasses talent acquisition, employee development, compensation and benefits administration, and fostering a culture of diversity and inclusion. By ensuring the university attracts and retains top talent, Maria Alam directly contributes to the quality of education and research offered. The strategic oversight of human resources is critical for operational continuity and the successful execution of academic programs throughout the United States, supporting the institution's status as a public research university.

    Byron Morgan - Associate Vice President & Managing Director

    Byron Morgan, the Associate Vice President & Managing Director at University of Memphis, oversees key operational and strategic initiatives that drive institutional growth and efficiency. Morgan's leadership function involves managing significant projects and directing resources to support the university's diverse programs and research endeavors across the Memphis region. This executive role requires a deep understanding of operational dynamics, financial management, and strategic planning to ensure the effective delivery of services and the achievement of institutional objectives. By coordinating cross-departmental efforts and optimizing resource allocation, Byron Morgan enhances the university's capacity to serve its student body and advance its research mission. The impact of this position extends across the University of Memphis's operations, contributing to its standing as a leading educational institution in the United States.

    Pamela Thomas - Team Captain

    Pamela Thomas, the Team Captain at University of Memphis, leads specific functional units within the institution, ensuring the effective execution of assigned objectives. Thomas's role involves coordinating team efforts, driving project completion, and fostering collaboration among members to achieve departmental goals. This leadership position focuses on operational execution and team performance, directly contributing to the smooth functioning of the university's various departments. By providing clear direction and support, Pamela Thomas ensures that teams operate efficiently and effectively, supporting the broader mission of the University of Memphis. The focus on team leadership and operational oversight is crucial for maintaining productivity and achieving success in academic and administrative functions across the Memphis campus and within the United States.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding University of Memphis Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads University of Memphis?
    University of Memphis is led by Ellen Watson (Chief Information Officer), along with executives such as Douglas Hurley (Vice President, Information Technology & Chief Information Officer) and Karen Bell (Associate Chief Information Officer).
    Who is part of University of Memphis’s executive team?
    The executive team of University of Memphis includes leaders such as Ellen Watson (Chief Information Officer), Douglas Hurley (Vice President, Information Technology & Chief Information Officer), Karen Bell (Associate Chief Information Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does University of Memphis have?
    University of Memphis has 6 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in University of Memphis’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of University of Memphis includes roles such as Chief Information Officer, Vice President, Information Technology & Chief Information Officer, Associate Chief Information Officer, Chief Human Resources Officer, Associate Vice President & Managing Director.