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Research involving 1,000 technology leaders from across the globe also reveals that 50% of CIOs are expected by their board to deliver continuous innovation and, in turn, 81% are spending more time on same.
CIOs have stepped into the role of digital evangelist and strategic advisor, according to the 2023 Global CIO Survey from Logicalis, a global technology service provider. The study questioned 1,000 technology leaders and explores how the role of the CIO is evolving. This year’s survey, entitled ‘The Meteoric Rise of the CIO’, demonstrates a monumental shift in the role of the CIO from tech implementor to business leader.
Today’s tech leaders are actively involved in creating business strategy with 41% having some level of responsibility for business strategy and 81% spending more time on innovation. Furthermore, over three quarters (77%) are now spending more time selling ideas into the board.
“CIOs are playing a leading role in orchestrating transformation and are stepping up in response to the changing industry dynamics,” says Bob Bailkoksi, CEO at Logicalis. “Yet, CIOs are faced with challenges to navigate, including a potential recession and talent shortages. In addition to this, they are experiencing increased pressure to deliver digital-based outcomes for their organisations, giving them more exposure to their boards and requiring a different way of operating.”
Orchestrating transformation on the journey towards a digital-first future means CIOs are forging a new path. The four critical areas of focus for CIOs identified by this year’s report are:
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Innovation – 50% of CIOs are expected to deliver continuous innovation that elevates and differentiates customer and employee interactions.
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Strategy – 80% of CIOs say that business strategy will become a bigger part of their role over the next two years.
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Digital Transformation – 57% of CIOs say that building and operating new digital platforms is still a core part of their job.
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Reimagining service partnerships – 74% of CIOs expect to increase spending on IT Outsource Management in 2023
“Modern CIOs have the right leadership skills and technology expertise to ensure their organisation is well equipped for the digital world”, explains Toby Alcock, CTO of Logicalis. “Rather than just supporting business needs through technology, the CIO is now using technology to help create new business models and tap into more revenue streams.”