CHIEF INFORMATION OFFICER (CIO)

SUMMARY:
The CIO is responsible for the management, implementation and usability of IT at all levels.

POSITION INFO:

Our client, a leading financial services company, seeks to hire an experienced and seasoned Chief Information Officer.

Key Responsibilities

Technology Strategy & Leadership

• Develop and execute a forward‑looking IT strategy aligned with organisational goals.
• Lead digital transformation initiatives to modernise systems, enhance efficiency, and improve customer experience.
• Provide strategic guidance to the executive team on technology trends, risks, and opportunities.
• Drive innovation by evaluating emerging technologies and recommending solutions that create competitive advantage.

IT Governance, Risk & Compliance

• Establish and maintain robust IT governance frameworks, policies, and standards.
• Oversee cybersecurity strategy, ensuring protection of data, systems, and digital assets.
• Ensure compliance with relevant regulatory, industry, and data‑privacy requirements.
• Manage IT audits, risk assessments, and business‑continuity planning.

Infrastructure & Operations Management

• Oversee the design, implementation, and maintenance of IT infrastructure, networks, and cloud environments.
• Ensure high availability, reliability, and performance of all systems and applications.
• Optimise IT operations through automation, process improvement, and best‑practice frameworks (e.g., ITIL).
• Manage vendor relationships, service‑level agreements, and technology procurement.

Software Development & Systems Integration

• Lead software development teams and ensure delivery of scalable, secure, and high‑quality applications.
• Oversee system architecture, integration, and lifecycle management.
• Ensure alignment between business requirements and technical solutions.
• Promote Agile methodologies, DevOps practices, and continuous improvement.

Data & Analytics Leadership

• Develop a data strategy that enhances decision‑making, reporting, and business intelligence.
• Oversee data governance, quality, security, and accessibility.
• Support the organisation in leveraging analytics, automation, and AI to drive insights and efficiency.

Financial & Resource Management

• Develop and manage the IT budget, ensuring cost‑effective technology investments.
• Oversee workforce planning, talent development, and succession planning within the IT function.
• Build and lead high‑performing teams with a culture of accountability, innovation, and collaboration.

Stakeholder & Executive Collaboration

• Partner with business leaders to understand needs and deliver technology solutions that enable growth.
• Communicate complex technical concepts in a clear, business‑focused manner.
• Support organisational change initiatives through effective communication and technology enablement.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Engineering, or related field; Master’s degree (MBA or IT‑related) is highly advantageous.
• 10–15+ years of progressive IT leadership experience, including senior management roles.
• Proven track record in digital transformation, enterprise architecture, and large‑scale IT operations.
• Strong experience in cybersecurity, cloud technologies, data management, and software development.
• Demonstrated ability to lead cross‑functional teams and manage complex projects.
• Experience in a regulated industry (e.g., financial services, insurance, healthcare) is advantageous.

Key Competencies

• Strategic thinker with strong business acumen.
• Exceptional leadership and people‑management skills.
• Strong communication and stakeholder‑engagement abilities.
• Deep understanding of modern IT architectures, cybersecurity, and digital ecosystems.
• Ability to balance innovation with operational stability.
• High integrity, sound judgement, and a commitment to excellence.