FROM TECH TO STRATEGY: THE CIO TO CXO SHIFT

The traditional responsibilities of the ClO are expanding beyond the realm of technology and into business strategy. As a result, many ClOs are making the transition from CIO to CXO, taking on a more strategic and holistic view of the organization and its needs.

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As technology continues to disrupt and shape Ax business landscape, the role of the CIO has become more complex and multi-faceted. The modern CIO must now wear multiple hats, balancing technical expertise with a deep understanding of the business and its objectives.

Though the transition has been discussed and diced for the longest time there is still a gap and we need to address the elephant in the room. With the IT roles getting diversified with the evolving landscape into CTO, CISO, CDO etc, the complexity is further intensified.

Arun Gupta Board Member, IT Strategy Digital Transformation Consultant, Entrepreneur, and Former ClO Cipla, Pfizer Shoppers Stop in conversation with Minu Sirsalewala, Executive Editor Special Projects, Dataquest shares views from his expansive experience and rich knowledge on the key drivers behind this transformation and the skills and traits that set successful CXOs apart.

He offers insights and guidance for technology leaders looking to elevate their careers and make a greater impact. Excerpts from the interaction.

CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT YOUR BACKGROUND AND HOW YOU TRANSITIONED FROM AN IT LEADERSHIP ROLE TO A CXO POSITION?

Starting my career as a Hardware Engineer and observing the leaders CEOs and EDP Managers) of then almost 40 years ago), quickly it was evident to me that growth to the top requires a balance of everything IT; i.e. hardware, software, networking, business/domain expertise and loads of soft skills. So set targets to acquire these and asked my friends and well-wishers including my reporting manager) on how am doing. Learning is a continuous process and since then, even today, continue to invest time to keep abreast with what is happening and how it impacts industries at large.