This requirement is always a cornerstone of the CIO search specification process. Specific facets of technology such as ERP, Web infrastructure, e-commerce, CRM, sales force automation, data warehousing, etc., come up frequently but are often downgraded to preferred status. By way of contrast, these elements were far more frequently required of MIS Directors, the previous generation of IT leaders. This is the quality that is not only in every search specification, but most frequently comes up first and most emphatically as in, What we really need is a leader. Leaders are special people visionary, passionate, inspirational, wise, charismatic, confident, influential, risk taking, encouraging, positive, reassuring, creative thinking, goal setting, helpful, supportive, principled, honorable, fair and open individuals.
Leaders serve as role models.
They stimulate ideas and they coax the best from, and give recognition to all those around them. Leadership is the very best career currency one can have. There are many worthwhile leadership development resources available to the aspiring CIO, including those at this website. He specializes in senior-level executive searches in information technology and is team member of the firm s information executive center of expertise.