What are the key ingredients for hiring an effective Chief Digital Officer?
The role of Chief Digital Officer (CDO) is a newer addition to most organisations, focusing on the digital transformation of strategies, services, and processes in order to improve the customer experience and improve return on investment (ROI).
Here at Suzie Walker Executive Search, we regularly recruit interim and permanent CDOs, on behalf of our clients, for FTSE 350 and private equity-backed companies. We also support candidates to develop into these roles through further learning and role opportunities. We hope the following key ingredients provide food for thought.
Firstly, what is a CDO?
While the role is relatively new, the impact is extraordinary. The CDO is responsible for driving digital growth and transformation, transforming a traditional strategy into a digital/integrated one for maximum impact and performance. CDOs focus on improving the customer experience by embracing and advocating the use of new and effective digital technologies to enhance services and streamline processes.
Knowledgeable
It is not enough for a CDO to oversee a team of knowledgeable and skilled staff. It is essential that they have the digital knowledge and skills to champion new technologies and approaches within the organisation and to develop a team that effectively utilises platforms, all with the aims of enhancing services and improving the customer experience. This will involve constantly measuring ROI and fine-tuning approaches.
Empowering
An effective CDO will bring out the best in their team by inviting new ideas and empowering staff to take those ideas forward. In a candidates’ market, particularly active for digital roles, it’s essential for the CDO to work closely with HR to attract and retain talent. This will involve developing a compelling package of rewards and remuneration to motivate and incentivise their team.
Collaborator
Digital strategies and activities impact the entire organisation, so an effective CDO will work collaboratively with departments and work closely with the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Chief Technology Officer (CTO). As the CDO will advocate new technologies to improve processes, it is essential that they understand how changes may impact each department, collaboratively considering innovative approaches for the best results.
Qualifications
Organisations’ requirements vary. Some will require a relevant bachelor’s degree or higher national diploma in business/technology/engineering, some will require a master’s degree, and some will value qualifications through professional bodies. However, a minimum of five years in a similar role and a proven track record will be essential.
Salary
Salary really depends on factors like experience, location and, most importantly, the right person. At Suzie Walker Executive Search, our team invests time at the beginning of a search to really understand what a client needs in terms of candidate profile and organisational culture. We also consider the ‘wild card candidate’ - being bold and brave while ensuring knowledge and expertise.
If you’re looking to hire an interim or permanent CDO, or if you’re looking to make your next career move, get in touch to see how we can help you or connect with us/send a message on LinkedIn.
With warmest regards,
the Suzie Walker Executive Search team
Suzie Walker Executive Search is a firm of specialist headhunters with an expert team recruiting interim and permanent senior leaders for marketing, data, digital and tech roles in FTSE 350 and private equity-backed companies. Find out how we can support you by connecting with a Consultant below.