John Cole
Managing Partner
Background
John Cole possesses broad knowledge about what does and does not work in business and technology. He then strives to help others to repeat the successes ... and not repeat the mistakes.
As managing partner, he focuses on client-service delivery and helps lead the development of products and services. He has two goals – ensuring clients view the Farr Systems team as trusted advisors and ensuring CIOs receive recognition for the great business results they achieve.
Cole is passionate about the quality of technology workers in the United States. He also is a strong believer in using proven processes to improve business outcomes.
Cole has held executive positions in such industries as hospitality, financial services, telecommunications and consulting. Firms he has worked for include Unisys, Pegasus Solutions, JPMorganChase, Sprint, and Banc One Services Corporation, among others.
At Unisys, Cole was responsible for helping a $3 billion operation implement a global, integrated, Information Technology Infrastructure Library (ITIL) process and tool.
Thought Leadership
Cole regularly speaks on panels at national and regional conferences, and to peer groups. His topics include:
- global sourcing
- advanced development centers
- motivating employees to peak performance
- building vendor partnerships
Cole also is a guest lecturer for the University of North Texas' master's program in information technology.
Professional Affiliations
Society for Information Management – Past president, Dallas-Fort Worth chapter; member, international board (responsible for chapter growth); co-founder, Memphis, Tenn, chapter.
Technology Executive Networking Group – Member
STARTech – Member, CIO Advisory Board
Austin Ventures – Member, CIO Advisory Board
Gartner Advisory Board – Member
Association for IT Professionals – Member, Board of Advisors
Cole has also launched a program that develops standards for certifying IT professionals.
Education
Michigan State University – Bachelor of Science, Electrical Engineering; Master's degree, entomology; master's degree, systems science
Stonier Graduate School of Banking – Graduate
Executive Development Program, Penn State University – Completion of studies
Also explore the expertise provided by:
Phil Farr
CEO
Jeff Farr
President
Greg Gosnell
Vice President, Sales and Marketing
McHugh Lee
Sr. Consultant
