This episode of Leadership in Flux features Melanie Kolp. Melanie is a senior technology executive recognized for her passionate strategic leadership at the intersection of technology, data, and innovation. As Nationwide’s Chief Data Officer and Senior Vice President, Chief Technology Officer for Technology Enterprise Solutions, she leads enterprise-wide strategies that align technology, data, artificial intelligence and emerging technology with the company’s broader business ambitions. She leads the development of a future-ready workforce, including expanding Nationwide’s global presence through the establishment of its India office and serving as board chairperson—helping position the company at the forefront of digital transformation.
With more than 30 years of experience, Melanie has built a strong reputation for translating complex technologies into tangible business outcomes. She leads initiatives that integrate technology strategy with data-driven insights, strengthening enterprise capabilities and enhancing both customer experience and consumer privacy across Nationwide.
Previously, she served as Chief Technology Officer for Corporate Technology, where she led strategy and product delivery across all corporate functions. In her earlier leadership roles, Melanie played a key role in modernizing Nationwide’s Retirement Plans technology platform, driving growth and expanding capabilities across public and private sectors. She also previously led property and casualty systems, enterprise application development, and financial technology operations.
Before joining Nationwide in 2005, Melanie held positions with Ernst & Young LLP and American Electric Power.
A committed advocate for advancing women in technology, Melanie is a founding member of Nationwide’s Women in IT organization and the founding president of Columbus Women in Tech. She is also a proud board member for Girl Scouts of Ohio Heartland. She holds dual Bachelor of Business Administration degrees in Management Information Systems and Business Management from Ohio University and resides in Dublin, Ohio, with her husband and three sons.
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