Dr. Charles Harris Jr. has begun his role as Vice President of Technology for Spurs Sports & Entertainment, focusing on enhancing technology strategies to support the organization. Previously, Harris oversaw technology for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, where he implemented significant improvements in workplace tools, cloud services, and fan experiences.
Harris’s career in technology was sparked during his childhood, influenced by the rise of video games and computers. His formal introduction to programming in high school solidified his commitment to the field. Early on, he noticed a gap between technical teams and business needs while working at UPS, where he supported shipping technologies. This experience taught him the importance of bridging that gap and enhancing communication among teams.
At the Buccaneers, Harris led initiatives that modernized processes while respecting existing knowledge within the organization. His accomplishments included migrating to Microsoft Azure, consolidating tools for improved collaboration, and enhancing cybersecurity measures. He also played a crucial role in integrating facial recognition technology for ticket entry, enhancing fans’ experiences at games.
“Technology needs to be steered by the desires and the needs of the organization,” Harris stated, emphasizing a user-centric approach to technology implementation.
At Spurs Sports & Entertainment, Harris aims to build relationships and develop a technology vision that aligns with the organization’s goals. He believes in starting by listening to different departments to understand their needs and integrating technology that supports those objectives. “A recommendation has value because people understand what it will do for them,” he said.
Harris underscored the significance of flexibility in technology projects, recalling an experience with a server project that fell through due to vendor issues. This led him to adapt quickly, working with trusted partners to find alternative solutions that met the organization’s needs.
As he settles into his new role, Harris is excited about the possibilities ahead. “The Spurs organization is doing exciting things on the court, and I want to help bring that same energy to technology initiatives,” he said.
Harris encourages aspiring technology leaders to develop their business acumen and understand how their organizations operate. He stresses the need for leaders to build strong teams and recognize that every organization has unique challenges that require careful listening and consideration before implementing new technologies.
In his personal time, Harris enjoys movies, sports, and spending moments with his family. He also appreciates travel and values the opportunity to recharge in simpler settings.
