UP promotes Tennison to EVP, chief strategy officer

Union Pacific Railroad yesterday appointed Lynden Tennison executive vice president and chief strategy officer, effective Aug. 1.

A 26-year UP veteran, Tennison has been senior vice president and chief information officer since Feb. 2005. In his new role, he will develop, implement and oversee UP's strategic agenda, according to a UP press release.

"Lynden brings tremendous technology and innovation expertise to a role that is critical to the company," said Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer Lance Fritz. "He will provide the necessary mix of tech savvy and business acumen to lead our strategy development and execution, creating long-term value for all of our stakeholders."

As senior VP and CIO, Tennison was responsible for managing the development, implementation and operation of UP's information and telecommunications technologies. He has served in a variety of leadership roles, including one with responsibility for the application systems and architectures for the entire company.

From 1998 through 2001, Tennison was president and CEO of Nexterna, a UP technology subsidiary.

In March, Tennison talked to Progressive Railroading about how UP is pursuing technologies that can enhance safety and streamline the Class I's operations.