What are the key ingredients for hiring an effective Chief Technology Officer?
The Chief Technology Officer (CTO) is a pivotal role that aligns technological development with business goals. It requires an in-depth understanding of strategic objectives and organisational challenges, combined with expert IT knowledge.
Here at Suzie Walker Executive Search, we regularly recruit interim and permanent CTOs, 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 CTO?
A CTO makes decisions about the company’s technological infrastructure, at the highest level, working closely with the Chief Information Officer (CIO) or even absorbing that role. They are strategically savvy and forward-thinking, understanding and embracing new technologies to make improvements to services and contributing towards increased profitability.
Strategist
The CTO will be an experienced strategist, identifying short-term and long-term IT needs to support business objectives. They will provide the technical vision and work closely with other departments to design systems and processes that benefit both the customer and the organisation, streamlining and innovating with their expert knowledge.
Expert
In addition to experience in technology, strategy, and leading teams, they will continually stay up to date on technological developments, including laws and regulations. As the leader of technical teams, they will have the required knowledge to fully understand and innovate projects. They will also work closely with HR on the recruitment and training of IT teams, employing the absolute best talent.
Communicator
As the CTO will oversee system designs and changes, they will need to communicate effectively with all departments, levels, and disciplines, explaining complex ideas and terms in diverse ways to different teams – from expert to layperson. They will also report on goals and progress, measuring performance, to ensure that objectives and deadlines are met.
Qualifications
Organisations’ requirements vary. Some will require a relevant bachelor’s degree or higher national diploma in a relevant qualification e.g. IT, 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 CTO, 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 and digital roles in consumer-facing FTSE 350 and private equity-backed companies. Find out how we can support you by connecting with a Consultant below.
