Rister had been serving as interim director since July 30, following the retirement of former ITS Director Keith Todd.
He now officially takes the helm of Cumberland County’s technology operations, overseeing strategic initiatives ranging from digital modernization to cybersecurity and infrastructure improvements across all departments. The position consolidates responsibilities typically held by a CIO and places Rister at the center of technology strategy — a familiar place for the 26-year Cumberland County veteran.
Rister began his county career in its Department of Social Services in September 1999 before joining the Innovation and Technology Services Department in 2012. Prior to becoming interim ITS director, he had most recently served as deputy ITS director.
He earned an associate degree from Fayetteville Technical Community College and a bachelor’s degree in computer science from Elizabeth City State University. Rister completed the University of North Carolina’s Certified Government Chief Information Officer program in 2021.
County Manager Clarence Grier highlighted Rister’s long tenure and deep knowledge of county operations in a statement, saying the new director “brings decades of experience and a deep understanding of Cumberland County’s operational and technology environment,” and that Rister’s “leadership and commitment to innovation will help guide technology strategy forward and continue improving services for residents and staff.”
Rister emphasized his commitment to building on existing projects and working across departments.
“Throughout my career, I’ve worked alongside many of Cumberland County’s dedicated teams,” he said in a statement. “I look forward to building on that work, supporting collaboration, modernizing systems and advancing solutions that strengthen services for our community.”
