Chris Merlan is a passionate and results-driven digital executive with over 25 years of experience leading digital transformation and operational excellence initiatives, with a particular focus on the strategic application of technologies like AI. As Chief Digital Officer and Executive Vice President at ASCO, Chris spearheads key projects that leverage technology to improve customer experience and solve complex business challenges.
A core component of Chris's leadership involves promoting the responsible use of AI in oncology. He co-led ASCO's Board Task Force on AI in Oncology Care, a pivotal initiative that established guiding principles for oncologists navigating the complexities of AI integration. The task force has been instrumental in shaping ASCO's approach to AI, ensuring ethical considerations and patient well-being remain paramount. 
Beyond his contributions to AI, Chris has also led ASCO's organization-wide implementation of Oracle Financial Cloud and Adobe Commerce, as well as the development of ASCO's first enterprise-wide Business Intelligence suite. Prior to ASCO, Chris held leadership positions at Publicis Groupe, Sapient, and Hyperice, where he honed his expertise in change management, enterprise architecture, program delivery, strategic planning, and operational leadership. His diverse background includes roles at MIT and Harvard University, where he led the OpenCourseWare initiative and was the Practice Manager for Grants Management, respectively. 
Chris is a sought-after voice in digital transformation, known for his ability to inspire and empower teams to achieve their full potential. He is a firm believer in open communication, risk-taking, and continuous learning. Chris holds bachelor’s degrees in Psychology and Anthropology and a master’s degree in Higher Education Administration from the University of Rhode Island.