WebRTC Expert Feature

March 26, 2019

Chief Information Officer and The Job Roles That Come With It





The roles of the Chief Information Officer (CIO) began with leading data processing teams and Information Systems (IS) departments. Advancements in technology offer professionals with this job position evolving responsibilities. Today’s competitive business environment seeks the help of tech-savvy individuals with a clear understanding of various procedures. This senior technology executive assists in the world of business, government, or non-profit organizations.

What is a CIO?

CIOs help spearhead the technology goals of businesses and organizations. The professional also oversees the plans and procedures vital to numerous information-technology (IT) projects. These projects may include budgeting, employee recruitment, and equipment procurement for the company. Several organizations in different industries may be on the lookout for individuals who have the right qualifications to become a cutting-edge CIO.

The Skills Required for a Modern CIO

To become a CIO, you must first have at least a bachelor’s degree in an IT course. Many companies prefer CIO candidates who hold diplomas from desirable colleges. Organizations may find the following courses appealing for CIO job applicants:

  • Management Information Systems (MIS)
  • Computer Information Systems (CIS)
  • IT Management and Project Management

You could gain the upper hand from other applicants if you graduated with a master’s degree from a relevant course. For example, a company may see you in a better light if you have a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree with course topics revolving around technology.

These accomplishments are vital for advanced programs like C-suite postings, which are designed to stimulate business processes. You can check for available IT-related courses at the University of Southern California to help you land that CIO position.

Other essential skills for this job position include:

  • Software development management
  • Project management
  • Change management
  • Leadership
  • Strategic Planning
  • Network building and maintenance
  • Business and financial insights

The Responsibilities and Duties of CIOs

Any job description has a set of responsibilities and duties for applicants to expect what their tasks and activities are if they get the position. CIOs are no different as you will perform routine and advanced tasks regularly. You can also use an application like the Riverbed Application Performance Platform to help you deliver the required functions as a CIO. Here are examples of responsibilities that CIOs have to give you an overview of the tasks you’ll do once you land that job:

  • Buying and deploying new technologies and computer systems while evaluating risks regarding procurement.
  • Analyzing current technology trends for administration, design, and development to increase organizational accuracy and efficiency.
  • Collaborating with personnel of different roles and positions in the organization to measure resource and system allocation and use.
  • Developing, enforcing, and maintaining short- and long-term IT strategies.
  • Locating service providers in the IT industry and negotiate favorable transactions to help cut company costs and enhance productivity.
  • Designing network infrastructures with an emphasis on satisfying remote access needs.
  • Developing and supervising advancements in a communications network.
  • Preparing cost-benefit analyses for changes in IT workflows.
  • Recommending hardware and software upgrades to help improve budgetary and operations success.
  • Updating the organization with current and emerging trends in the IT sector.
  • Observing competitors’ tech footing and creating strategies to maintain a competitive edge.
  • Other superior soft skills like presentation, relationship building, team development, and negotiation.

Employ the right skills to excel at being a CIO. Help the company in setting and leading technology strategies for the benefit of the entire firm. Work with C-level executives in planning, developing, and executing tasks to provide noteworthy results.

Who to Report to as a CIO?

CIOs are C-level executives. Employees with this job position submit most of their progress reports to Chief Executive Officers (CEOs). Specific tasks like developing financial strategies in-line with technology may require reporting to Chief Financial Officers (CFOs). Other responsibilities may need CIOs to inform signs of progress to Chief Operating Officers (COOs).

Reporting to the CEO helps stabilize the technology role for the CIO. Also, informing the CFO about progress may help clearly define budgets for IT departments. In some cases, large corporations may have no direct line to the CEO or other essential board members.

CIOs play integral roles in different organizations. Professionals entitled to this job position may also help create the next generation of leaders. The various duties and responsibilities associated with the expertise and skills held by the CIO may help other staff members gain strategic experience. If you land the CIO role in a company, don’t forget about your fellow employees. Help other workers in becoming the agents of change to adapt in this technology-focused world.



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