Tim Holper

Chief Data Officer

Tim Holper is the Chief Data Officer of Metropolitan Family Services (MFS). He leads the organization’s data and technology work across core business systems, reporting and analytics, cybersecurity, and responsible use of AI. In this role, he helps teams use reliable data to make better decisions, improve day-to-day operations, and strengthen services for clients — supported by clear standards for data quality, privacy and security.

Holper brings more than two decades of experience helping organizations collect, organize, and use data well. Much of his background comes from large university and research settings, where good data practices are essential for accuracy, trust and compliance. He is known for building practical reporting and analytics solutions and for creating clear, workable rules for how data is defined, managed and protected. His leadership style emphasizes clear strategy, transparent communication, collaboration and continuous learning.

Before joining MFS, Holper was Director of Data Warehousing and Business Intelligence at the University of Chicago’s Center for Research Informatics (CRI). He led the team responsible for the Clinical Research Data Warehouse — a secure data platform that brings information together from many systems so researchers can work with consistent, high-quality data. He helped improve how data was combined, validated and made available, supporting complex clinical and research efforts.

Earlier in his career, Holper built and managed large-scale websites for Navy Pier and McCormick Place, including online tools that supported vendors and the public. He later developed software at the University of Chicago’s Department of Medicine, contributing to data-driven projects that helped teams understand, predict and improve patient outcomes. Across roles, he has focused on turning complex technical work into usable tools for everyday use.

Holper has also helped shape how large institutions set standards for trusted data. At the University of Chicago, he served on the Institutional Data Governance Council, Data Certification Board, and Interventional Modeling Committee. In these roles, he worked with partners across the organization to align definitions, improve consistency and ensure data was used responsibly.

Holper holds an MBA and an MS in Computer Science from the University of Chicago, an MA in Social Science Research from Loyola University of Chicago (as a fellow in the Center for Urban Research and Learning), and a BS in Psychology from Loyola University of Chicago. His graduate work included building social science databases for the City of Chicago’s Community Policing program, leading evaluation for an HIV prevention initiative at the Cook County Department of Corrections, and supporting crime-mapping work in public housing.

Outside of work, Holper is the father of two boys and enjoys coaching their sports teams. He also spends time restoring and remodeling an older two-flat, rebuilding cars, and teaching his sons practical skills along the way. One day, he hopes to find time to return to scuba diving.