Clay Jester

Senior Vice President

Chief Technology Officer

Clay Jester is currently the Chief Technology Officer (CTO) of the Institute for Intergovernmental Research (IIR). In this role, he is responsible for monitoring new technologies and assessing their potential to become new products or services that deliver strategic innovation. In addition, he serves as the Director of the Digital Services Management and Innovation team for IIR. In this capacity, he leads IIR’s efforts to implement and support tools defined as “software as a service” (SaaS) and focuses on the development of strategic methodologies utilizing digital-based solutions and outreach to advance IIR’s mission and vision.

Prior to his role as CTO, Mr. Jester served as the Information Technology Director of IIR.

Having been with IIR for more than 30 years, Mr. Jester possesses extensive experience in developing, directing, and overseeing complex information technology applications and data solutions for the U.S. Department of Justice, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, the U.S. Department of State, and partner organizations.

Previously, Mr. Jester was responsible for managing the data systems activities of IIR. In this capacity, he developed and implemented database management systems to support IIR’s role in numerous initiatives. He also was responsible for the technical support of IIR’s video operations and multimedia applications.

Mr. Jester has developed and implemented internal management information systems for IIR, including the implementation and support of an electronic communications system among IIR’s offices in Florida, Tennessee, and Washington, DC, and numerous remote locations.

Prior to joining IIR, Mr. Jester worked as a consultant for the Florida State University (FSU) Computing Center, during which time he served in several capacities, including development and support.

Mr. Jester holds a bachelor’s degree in management information systems from FSU, where he was a member of Beta Gamma Sigma Business Honor Fraternity.