Title

The Chief Information Officer Role Now and in The Future

Author

Dr. Rami Khasawneh

Contact Information

Interim Dean, College of Business
Lewis University , khasawra@lewisu.edu

Key Words

CIO, Information Technology, CXO, CEO, COO, CFO

Abstract

The CIO (Chief Information Officer) is the highest-ranking information technology member of their company. They are senior executives and technologists all wrapped up into one person. They are responsible for aligning their company's technology strategy with the business strategy. CIOs are not like other CXOs (generic term for corporate officers) nor are they treated like them. Their pay pales in comparison to chief executive officers (CEOs) and many of their CXO peers. Some CIOs report directly to the CEO while others report into the chief operations officer (COO) or the chief financial officer (CFO). Because of their position and role in the company they have a unique perspective of how all departments do business. How CIOs leverage this vantage point is essential to maintaining and growing their position. This paper highlights the responsibilities of the position which range from developing and retaining staff, managing change, processing strong communication, management and relationship skills, business savvy, and being a strong leader. This paper discusses what it takes to be a CIO from a skills and educational perspective. And some of the best practices a CIO should adhere to if they wish to remain in the position. It also addresses the idea of a CIO becoming a CEO.

Full-text

Contact: Dr.Obeidat at mobeidat@spsu.edu or lsun@spsu.edu