The Evolving Role of a CIO

In today’s fast-paced digital landscape, the role of a Chief Information Officer (CIO) is continuously evolving. As technology advances at an unprecedented rate, CIOs must adapt, focusing not just on technological innovation but also on people, collaboration, and industry-wide development.

To gain insight into this transformation, we spoke with Marie Banks, CIO of Croda, about her journey to leadership, the shifting responsibilities of a CIO, and the importance of building strong relationships with fellow industry leaders.

Key Areas of Discussion For a CIO

Marie Banks highlighted several crucial aspects of the modern CIO role, including:

The Roadmap to Becoming a CIO

The journey to a Chief Information Officer position is rarely linear. It requires a combination of technical expertise, strategic vision, and strong leadership skills. Marie shared her career trajectory, emphasising the importance of continuous learning, adaptability, and resilience in reaching the C-suite.

Effective Collaboration

Collaboration is at the heart of successful IT leadership. Modern CIOs must foster strong partnerships across departments, ensuring that technology aligns with business goals. Marie stressed the value of networking with other CIOs and industry leaders to share best practices and drive collective innovation.

Women in Technology

Despite progress, gender diversity in technology leadership remains a challenge. Marie reflected on her experiences as a woman in tech, discussing the importance of mentorship, supportive workplace cultures, and initiatives to encourage more women to pursue careers in IT.

Building Relationships with Trusted Technologists

A CIO’s success depends on the expertise of a reliable and skilled team. Marie emphasised the necessity of identifying and collaborating with trusted technologists who can help drive digital transformation while ensuring business continuity.

Mental Health in a Diverse Team

With diverse teams comes the responsibility of fostering an inclusive and supportive work environment. Marie underscored the significance of mental health initiatives, advocating for open discussions, work-life balance, and creating spaces where employees feel valued and heard.

Tips for Aspiring CIOs

For those looking to step into a CIO role, Marie offered practical advice:

• Develop both technical and leadership skills
• Stay informed about industry trends
• Build strong networks within and beyond your organisation
• Advocate for diversity and inclusion
• Prioritise well-being, both personally and within your teams

The Future of IT Leadership

As technology continues to advance, the role of the Chief Information Officer is shifting towards a more people-centric approach. While innovation remains critical, successful CIOs are those who lead with empathy, foster collaboration, and drive meaningful change within their organisations and the broader industry.

By embracing these evolving responsibilities, CIOs can ensure they remain at the forefront of technological and business transformation.