Daniel Rister promoted to chief Innovation & Technology Services director

By Staff Report, posted Dec 10, 2025 on BizFayetteville.com

Daniel Rister - Photo provided by Cumberland County

Cumberland County Manager Clarence Grier has promoted Daniel Rister to serve as the county’s chief Innovation & Technology Services (ITS) director. Rister is a 26-year veteran of Cumberland County government who has served in multiple leadership roles across technology development, infrastructure and enterprise systems.

Rister began his public service career with Cumberland County’s Department of Social Services (DSS) in September 1999 and has worked with ITS since 2012. Throughout his career, he has held positions in all facets of technology, including application development, network infrastructure, cybersecurity, systems management and digital service delivery.

“Daniel brings decades of experience and a deep understanding of Cumberland County’s operational and technology environment,” said County Manager Clarence Grier in a press release. “His leadership and commitment to innovation will help guide our technology strategy forward and continue improving services for our residents and staff.”

Rister holds an Associate of Science degree from Fayetteville Technical Community College and a Bachelor of Computer Science from Elizabeth City State University. In 2021, he graduated from the Certified Government Chief Information Officer (CGCIO) program at the University of North Carolina.

“I am honored to step into this role and continue serving Cumberland County,” Rister said in a press release. “Throughout my career, I’ve worked alongside many of Cumberland County’s dedicated teams. I look forward to building on that work, supporting collaboration, modernizing systems and advancing solutions that strengthen services for our community.”

In his new role, Rister will oversee Cumberland County’s Innovation & Technology Services Department, guiding strategic initiatives that support digital modernization, data-driven decision-making, cybersecurity enhancements and technology infrastructure across all Cumberland County departments.

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