Things to know about a CIO (CIO)

Along with the rapid development of IT, the convergence of computer technology and communication, the term CIO (Chief Information Officer) is increasingly widely used in Vietnam.

The Information Director (CIO) refers to the title of the IT manager in a given organization.Initially in the past, a CIO will be the leader in the data processing department and IS (Information system).But today, the role of this title changes quite a lot in the more important direction.The world of information technology (IT) has been and will continue to change rapidly, so the function of CIOs will continue to adapt to the changes coming from modern businesses.So, in a competitive business environment, focusing on today's technology, what value does CIO bring to a business?

The specific role of a CIO

The short answer is that there is no completely accurate description of the role of CIOs.Right from the meaning of the title tells us that it is an executive position responsible for meeting the IT needs of a business, but that doesn't mean they are IT managers.In fact, the position of CIOs is becoming more isolated and specific than before.Sometimes they are also called CTOs, but in theory they are not, there are still small differences between these two positions.Here are the main functions of a CIO:

1. Create business values ​​through technology.
2. Develop strategic plans to promote business growth goals.
3. Ensure that IT is used effectively to achieve work goals, and acts as a clue to the organization's unique voice on technology.

The goal of the company is always an important factor because only goals that match the technology needs of new customers bring positive growth numbers.CIOs are an important part of the technological transformation of businesses.

In setting up, implementing plans and strategic IT vision, theCIOmust build a strategic IT vision clearly and simply so that all members of the organization can understand without much explanation.That vision must be easy to remember and repeat for staff deploying, managing and users.However, that vision must be based on the right understanding of the organization's strategies.And one very important thing is that the vision and implementation plans must match.

For example, during the transition phase of the 4.0 technology revolution, cloud computing, big data analysis, mobile computing, and collaboration platforms pose challenges. new for CIOs.Meanwhile, AI, Internet of Things (Internet of Things) and digital disruptions are more influential in consumer product trends.With changes in this technology trend, today's CIOs seem less interested in running the IT department.Instead, they focus more on the field of service analysis, data security and market access.Other tasks of a CIO include:

1. Develop customer service platform.
2. Responsible for IT and development team management.
3. Responsible for IT negotiations and enterprise IT architecture.
4. Supply management.
5. Information risk management (IRM).
6. Develop policies, strategies and standards of information systems.
7. Responsible for future technology development strategies and ensure that the organization's IT spending is reasonable.

The level and skill of a CIO

Level

CIOs often have a background in IT, with degrees in computer science, software engineering or information systems.However, not only knowledge, experience is also an important factor to consider appointing a Director of Information Director.CIOs often have at least 5 years of work experience and experience in IT management.Moreover, business acumen is also one of the prerequisites.That's why the current trend of businesses often appoints CIO titles to members from business-related departments instead of pure IT.

Skill

The skills needed for the position of Director of Information are:

1. Strategic planning ability
2. Software development management skills
3. Leadership
4. Project management
5. Building cooperation networks and relationships
6. Has a strong financial and economic expertise (Many today's CIOs earn an MBA)

Salary and benefits at work

Job satisfaction is one of the benefits that CIOs enjoy.Eight of the 10 CIOs participating in a survey by Harvey Nash and KPMG last year said they felt "fulfilled" or "very satisfied" in their work.However, the reports also show that the life expectancy of this job is often quite short or in other words, this position often changes quite quickly.30% of those surveyed turned to another job after only a few years holding the position of CIO.

The salary of a CIO is proportional to the experience, ability and where they work.According to Payscale surveys, the average salary of a CIO is in the $ 150,000 range, but not less than $ 88,000.The data that Payscale obtained also shows that CIOs' incomes in major cities like Los Angeles, Miami, Minneapolis and Atlanta are significantly higher than the US average.

Job prospects

This position will continue to change with advances in information technology.Capturing the flow of information technology is essential for business success and CIOs who need to be at the forefront of promoting this field forward.Knowledge of both business trends and information technology as well as management practices will become the pillars for the success of a Director of Information.

Oracle's chief executive, Mark Hurd, said the 'tough' position in the vast majority of US companies is now the CIO chair.Why is that?Mark Hurd pointed out that technology has, is, and will bring impressive effects on important areas of life such as personal health, insurance and agriculture.It was these rapid changes that brought but higher demands for CIOs as well as their expectations.To be fair, the prospect in this profession is yes, even a lot, but not at all simple.

Despite the fact that CIO is a highly purified position, many people are still willing to take on challenges, especially young people.Modern CIOs are expected to change the way companies do business based on IT.The bright future ahead will be for those who know how to practice, hard work, and are not afraid to face difficulties, not afraid to change themselves to bring practical values ​​to businesses.

1. Top 10 IT jobs with the highest salary in the future
2. How much money do programmers in the US earn each year?
3. 8 lessons on the leadership of Facebook's human resources director for young managers
4. 17 jobs to help you stay home still make money