In today’s world, businesses are increasingly shaped by both internal pressures and unpredictable external forces, says Maik Herfurth, CIO of Tecan Group. Political instability, global conflicts, economic volatility, and accelerating technological advances are driving disruption at an unprecedented pace—forcing companies to act swiftly and decisively.
As a result, technology is no longer just a support function but a critical business enabler. The rise of AI adds yet another dimension, opening vast new opportunities while raising complex questions about ethics, value creation, and strategic control. CIOs must step up—not only to manage this transformation but to creatively shape it. It’s no longer just about keeping systems running. It’s about reimagining the business through the lens of AI and digital capability.
This raises a crucial question: Is the role of the CIO still well-positioned for the future—or must it fundamentally evolve?
Here are a few theories
1. CIOs must act as choreographers—
They must orchestrate the dynamic interplay between business, IT, and AI, ensuring strategic alignment while fostering innovation and agility. As AI becomes embedded across functions, CIOs need to bridge technological potential with real business value.
2. CIOs will become change makers—
They won’t just implement technology; they will shape the organization’s direction, influence its culture, and lead AI-driven transformation. Creative CIOs will see the whole company—not just the tech stack—and use AI as a lever to unlock new business models and customer experiences.
3. CIOs must have a seat at the management board—
In a world of disruption, deep technology integration, and global interdependencies, CIOs need board-level influence. AI strategy is business strategy, and CIOs must be central in steering the company through ethical, competitive, and transformative choices AI presents.
