Amtrak names Zacariassen CIO

Amtrak has appointed Christian Zacariassen chief information officer, the railroad announced yesterday.

As CIO, Zacariassen will be responsible for all information technology (IT) business systems, including strategy, technology investment portfolio governance, systems development, infrastructure, IT operations and information security.

Prior to his appointment, Zacariassen — who joined Amtrak in 2013 — had been associate vice president for product, portfolio and customer management. He also was chief of infrastructure services.

"Christian has a wealth of experience that will help modernize and simplify digital technology and data across the company," said Amtrak President and Co-Chief Executive Officer Richard Anderson in a press release. "His strong track record will help deliver IT solutions that increase efficiencies, generate revenue, and improve the customer and employee experience."

Before joining Amtrak, Zacariassen was vice president of information technology for Life Technologies. He also served as a sergeant in the Norwegian Army.