For decades, CIOs were seen as back-office tech leaders, focused mainly on keeping systems running. But that’s changing. Today’s CIOs are driving digital strategy, data transformation, and innovation — making them prime candidates for the CEO role. As companies rely more on technology, those who understand it deeply are moving from the server room to the boardroom.
Modern CIOs are no longer just technical experts. They’re business operators. They know how to cut costs, streamline systems, and build platforms that support growth. They talk to every department and often understand how the entire business works better than anyone else. That’s why more companies are seeing them as future CEOs.
But the leap isn’t automatic. It takes communication, leadership, and a shift from systems thinking to business thinking. The good news? Many CIOs are already doing just that — and their stories are proving it’s possible.
The Skills That Set CIOs Apart
The road from CIO to CEO isn’t about technical certifications — it’s about leadership. CIOs who succeed as CEOs know how to make tech relevant to growth. They connect IT strategy to business outcomes, translating systems into value. They also build strong teams, manage budgets, and make high-stakes decisions daily.
In many cases, CIOs already act like CEOs — they just don’t have the title yet. They manage cross-functional teams. They lead company-wide initiatives. And in digital-first businesses, they often lead the most critical revenue-driving projects.
To make the jump, CIOs must lean into storytelling, vision-setting, and people leadership. It’s not enough to know the tech — they must inspire trust, drive culture, and own the customer experience.
Karl Threadgold: Building a Global Mindset
Karl Threadgold, Managing Director of Threadgold Consulting, knows firsthand what it takes to lead across borders. His company implements NetSuite ERP solutions worldwide — requiring both technical precision and leadership across global teams.
“I’ve led teams in the UK, Singapore, and beyond. What I’ve learned is that leadership is about clarity,” Karl says. “You need to be clear on your vision, clear on your expectations, and crystal clear on your results.”
Karl’s work helps clients streamline workflows and scale more efficiently — two skills every CEO must master. “Technology is only useful if it improves performance. That’s true whether you’re writing code or writing strategy.”
His approach to leadership is rooted in systems thinking. “I treat each business unit like a system. When one piece improves, the whole organization benefits.”
Ryan Young: Marketing Vision Meets Execution
Ryan Young, founder of Revive Marketing Services, blends tech with communication. With over 13 years in digital marketing, he’s helped thousands of businesses grow. And in the process, he’s learned what it takes to lead.
“CIOs and marketers have a lot in common,” Ryan says. “Both roles require understanding the customer journey, the back-end tools, and how data drives decisions.”
Ryan believes communication is the most overlooked leadership skill. “You can have the best system in the world, but if your team doesn’t understand it — or believe in it — it fails.”
He encourages CIOs to step into strategy conversations. “Don’t wait to be invited. If you understand how tech impacts growth, speak up. That’s how leaders get noticed.”
Edward Piazza: Financial Focus, Technical Backbone
Edward Piazza, President of Titan Funding, leads a private lending team with deep ties to tech and finance. With a background in banking and commercial lending, Edward understands how systems support scalable growth.
“I come from finance, but I’ve always relied on smart tech to stay efficient,” Edward shares. “From underwriting tools to CRMs, we use digital systems to speed up decision-making.”
Edward believes today’s CIOs must master both numbers and narratives. “If you want the corner office, you have to show how tech drives returns. That’s not just spreadsheets — it’s vision.”
He encourages CIOs to collaborate with finance early. “Understand your margins, your runway, your CAC. Marry that with smart infrastructure, and you’re ready to lead.”
How CIOs Can Make the Shift
To move into the CEO role, CIOs must shift from support to strategy. Here’s how:
- Talk outcomes, not outputs. Frame IT wins in terms of revenue, speed, or market growth.
- Build executive relationships. Work closely with marketing, operations, and finance.
- Lead transformation. Take ownership of change initiatives — and show results.
- Elevate your visibility. Present to the board. Own the room.
- Mentor and develop others. CEOs create leaders — not just systems.
It’s also important to stay connected to customers. Digital tools should improve user experience, not just internal processes. The CIO-turned-CEO must lead with empathy, vision, and a deep understanding of the end user.
Final Thoughts: Tech at the Top
The path from CIO to CEO is no longer rare — it’s rising. As tech shapes every part of business, those who understand it deeply are uniquely positioned to lead.
Leaders like Karl Threadgold, Ryan Young, and Edward Piazza show how combining technical knowledge with strategic leadership leads to real impact. Whether it’s scaling teams globally, driving growth through data, or connecting systems to value — these professionals prove that tech expertise belongs in the corner office.
The title may change. But the skills — clarity, discipline, vision, and adaptability — remain constant. For the modern CIO, the future is wide open. And the corner office isn’t just possible — it’s within reach.
Lynn Martelli is an editor at Readability. She received her MFA in Creative Writing from Antioch University and has worked as an editor for over 10 years. Lynn has edited a wide variety of books, including fiction, non-fiction, memoirs, and more. In her free time, Lynn enjoys reading, writing, and spending time with her family and friends.
