We’ve discussed acting as a tech exec, but let’s define the role and its appeal. It may seem high-flying, but it’s important to understand that the authority and responsibilities vary based on the organization, industry, and business type.
The titles are diverse: Chief Information Officer, Chief Technology Officer, Chief Information Security Officer, Chief Architect, Chief Transformation Officer, Managing Director, SVP/ VP of Technology, and more. To understand the responsibilities of these roles, refer to the job description. Each company’s technology needs differ, so you won’t find a common JD.
We’ll try to make sense of one of these roles. CIO is the top technology executive of most organizations and reports to the CEO, CFO, COO, or Chief Transformation Officer. Reporting structure usually depends on company size and the presence of strict IT controls – where IT would report to the CFO.
Ideally, the CIO would have a strategic role reporting to or influencing policy makers within the organization. In today’s technology-driven world, forward-thinking organizations seek CIOs with a broad technical background, capable of collaborating with and influencing the business. Most CIOs are not experts in a specific technology area but hire specialists. The ideal CIO is open-minded and skilled at identifying the right people and technologies for an organization’s business and tech strategy.
A CIO needs strong IT operations experience to effectively reduce costs, collaborate with business constituents, and implement strategic plans. Keeping ego in check is also crucial for leading the charge in championing the business.
As a modern leader, the CIO must excel in marketing IT achievements and demonstrating how it drives business goals. Establishing a reputation for customer service excellence, success, and transformative change will position IT as a leader. Business teams are gaining control over solution enablement through platforms like low code no code.
We’ll talk more about the role of the CIO in future posts.
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