'Military success is driven by speed of adaptation and information superiority. Digital capability has become part of our combat power, and that puts digitalization at the heart of operations.'

As CIO at the Ministry of Defence, Jeroen van der Vlugt, is responsible for the digital capabilities Defence needs to operate effectively and be decisive on the battlefield.

The nomination highlights the growing importance of the CIO role at a time when technology is becoming an increasingly integral part of organisations' strategic direction. The award looks beyond technology itself, recognising leadership, business impact, and the ability to translate digital developments into tangible organisational results.

We warmly congratulate Jeroen and his team on this nomination and wish them every success in the lead-up to the CIO of the Year Award, which will be presented during CIODAY 2026 on 24 November in Nieuwegein.