Julie Cunningham has accepted the position of senior director of human resources for Information Technology Services (ITS), starting March 1.

Cunningham is the associate director of HR for the State Hygienic Laboratory and the Office of the Vice President for Research, where she has worked since 2018. She is also currently serving as interim senior HR director for the Tippie College of Business and served as the interim senior HR director for the Graduate College last fall. Julie brings a breadth of experience and knowledge to this role. In addition to her professional experience, she holds a master’s degree in strategic leadership (MSL) from Mount Mercy University and a bachelor’s degree in human resources management from Upper Iowa University, with a minor in sociology.

Cunningham has provided leadership and guidance on a broad range of HR issues, policies, and procedures, and assured compliance in compensation and classification, performance management, investigation, and disciplinary action, leave of absence, and organizational development. She has recruited staff at all levels and worked to strengthen organizations and employee experiences. Julie also implemented recognition programs and facilitated training and mentoring opportunities. Earlier in her career, she worked in HR roles in the UI Office of the Provost, UI Distance and Online Education, and at hibu/McLeod USA.

"I am confident Julie will be an excellent addition to the leadership of our organization," says Tim Evans, senior director in the Office of the Chief Information Officer and ITS Enterprise Services. "I would also like to once again thank her predecessor, Dave Ambrisco, for his 13 years of service in ITS and 43 years with the university as he retires from his accomplished career. Please join me in congratulating both of them and welcoming Julie to ITS."