Climbing to the CIO Role: Eight Tech Positions That Can Propel You Forward

Insights from Helen Fleming, Executive Director – Search & Specialisms at Harvey Nash

A Chief Information Officer (CIO) plays a crucial role in shaping a company’s strategy through technology. They sit on the executive committee, report directly to the CEO, and drive the company’s tech initiatives. Yet, not all CIOs hold this level of influence—about 30% do not sit on the executive committee. This difference highlights the importance of transitioning from operational to strategic roles.

To excel as a CIO, several key attributes stand out:

• Strategic Vision: It’s essential to align IT strategy with the company’s goals. A CIO needs to envision how technology can offer a competitive edge.
• Leadership and Management: Leading teams and managing complex projects requires strong communication skills.
• Technical Expertise: A solid grasp of IT foundations like infrastructure, cybersecurity, and emerging technologies is crucial.
• Business Acumen: Understanding how technology influences business processes and the bottom line is essential.
• Change Management: Experience in guiding organizations through digital transformations is increasingly important.

For those aiming to become a CIO, certain senior IT roles can pave the way. Here are four relevant positions:

1. Chief Technology Officer (CTO): Focused on a company’s tech strategy and innovation, the CTO role is closely linked to that of a CIO, especially in tech-heavy environments. Transitioning from CTO to CIO is a natural step.

2. IT Director/Head of IT: This role involves managing the daily operations of the IT department. Gaining hands-on experience in team and budget management sets a strong foundation for stepping into a CIO position.

3. Chief Data Officer (CDO): CDOs oversee data governance and analytics initiatives. In data-driven organizations, this role can provide valuable experience that leads to a CIO position.

4. Chief Information Security Officer (CISO): Security expertise is increasingly important. While a CISO may not transition to a CIO role immediately, their background in security can be a significant asset down the line.

Additionally, some roles can serve as stepping stones toward the CIO level:

• Director of Digital Transformation/Innovation: This senior role is pivotal for driving technology adoption and new processes, building the strategic vision necessary for a CIO.

• IT Program/Project Manager: Managing large-scale IT projects is an excellent way to gain the necessary experience in project alignment with business objectives.

• Enterprise Architect: By designing IT infrastructure to support business strategy, Enterprise Architects develop strategic skills vital for a future CIO.

• Office of the CIO: This position creates a bridge between IT and business units, offering insights into both areas, which can lead directly to a CIO role.

The landscape of careers in technology is evolving. More individuals from non-technical backgrounds are entering the field through apprenticeships and self-learning. Passion for technology, a drive to succeed, and the ability to inspire teams are becoming more important than formal qualifications.

Aspiring CIOs have multiple pathways to achieving their goals. Hard work, a solid track record, and potentially additional qualifications—like an MBA or relevant certifications—can enhance opportunities in this changing business landscape.