Managing IT infrastructure and ensuring operational efficiency is just one dimension of the modern Chief Information Officer (CIO) role. Today, CIOs are increasingly seen as pivotal figures in driving broader organizational change, stimulating business growth, and fostering innovation. Recent findings from Deloitte reveal that over half of CIOs consider themselves agents of change rather than mere technical experts. Furthermore, 59% describe themselves as enablers of transformation and innovation.
This shift in perception is not occurring in isolation. According to the 2025 State of the CIO report by CIO.com, 75% of CIOs are actively collaborating with business leaders to strategize and drive the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI). However, being a change agent is fraught with challenges, especially when business transformation lacks a cohesive approach. Conversations with several tech leaders highlight four key strategies CIOs should adopt to effectively lead through change.
Adopting a Measured Approach
Kurt Brissett, Chief Digital and Information Officer (CDIO) at Australian-owned digital-first contractor Built, emphasizes the importance of a measured approach. “Often, people come in all guns blazing to make their mark early on,” he notes. “While intentions are usually good, ego can prevent a more considered and collaborative approach to change.”
Brissett has dedicated time to understanding Built’s existing strategies and market challenges, insights that cannot be gathered in a day. “Listening early on, rather than doing, earns you the right to influence and lead change,” he asserts. Caryn Bell, Business Unit CIO for FNB Infrastructure and Security Services, echoes this sentiment. “During transformation, especially when challenging traditional methods, CIOs must be both enablers and disruptors,” she explains. “Taking calculated risks and failing fast is crucial to avoid costly corrections.”
Inclusive Leadership: Getting Everyone Involved
Vaughn Naidoo, General Manager of the B2B technology center of excellence at MTN, stresses the importance of involving people in the change process. “The biggest tactic I use is to take people on the journey with me,” he says. “When you discuss why changes are happening, you get a more positive response.”
Naidoo believes that fostering a sense of ownership by allowing teams to make decisions within their areas of responsibility is crucial. Limiting rigid hierarchies and excessive bureaucracy can expedite decision-making and adaptability. Brissett adds that some of the most successful transformations occur when operational and tech delivery teams collaborate as a cross-functional unit. “Breaking down silos and fostering joint accountability allows everyone to benefit from the change,” he states.
The Power of Communication
Clear communication is vital when implementing new strategies. Bell often uses storytelling to make visions relatable and engaging, helping teams understand their roles in the larger picture. “Cross-collaboration provides visibility around everyone’s work, fostering inclusion,” she explains. Regular alignment check-ins ensure that teams remain on track and adjust as necessary.
Brissett concurs, emphasizing the need for a well-defined vision that aligns with business goals. “Communicating target outcomes, when meaningful and achievable, can make teams feel accomplished rather than pulled in multiple directions,” he notes.
Framing Change Positively
The rapid rise of generative AI has brought both excitement and fear about its impact on jobs. Naidoo suggests that how tech leaders frame change can significantly alter perceptions. “If we present gen AI as a tool for efficiency, like improving grammar or drafting requests, we highlight its benefits,” he says. “A positive spin on change makes acceptance easier.”
Brissett adds that change should be strategic, not trendy. “Sometimes, it’s okay not to change if it doesn’t make sense. This isn’t stagnation; it’s strategic opportunity finding,” he explains. Encouraging curiosity and innovation can make employees more willing to embrace new challenges.
Ultimately, change is inevitable, and it must be thoughtfully integrated to ensure stakeholder satisfaction and achieve project objectives. As CIOs continue to evolve as champions of change, their role in shaping the future of business becomes ever more critical.