New Book Helps CIOs Build Business Leadership Skills

Seattle, WA, November 19, 2010 --(PR.com)-- Of all the possible technology-related stories from 2010, Information Week* recently called “the CIO transformation” a top 10 story. Why would a corporate position outrank most all other technology stories over the past year? The article argues that CIOs (Chief Information Officers) may just be on the endangered species list.

Pulled in opposing directions – technology in one and business leadership in the other – CIOs are finding it difficult and stressful to be effective, and ultimately to be successful in their roles.

To be successful as a CIO today requires a different mindset and approach, says John Hughes, author of the new business fable, Haunting the CEO: A tale of true leadership in an era of IT failure. “Unfortunately, too many CIOs view their role as selecting, implementing and managing technology, versus that of growing a business,” Hughes explained.

Hughes, a CIO himself, says that CEOs are looking for something more from their technology leaders. “CEOs are looking for CIOs who can function as business leaders, not just manage technology, and this is a significant mindset shift for many in the industry, but one that must happen.”

Former Avis and Cendant Global CIO, Larry Kinder, concurs: “The age of information technology (IT) as ‘technology only’ is over. IT is all about the business. Those who did not get it in the past and want to be successful in their careers should be able to make adjustments and embrace the business role of technology.”

As a CIO, Hughes has transformed IT organizations from a focus on the technical and tactical to a focus on the business and strategic. He says, “There are a key set of strategies critical to CIO success, but the greatest and toughest is the mental transformation from technologist to business leader.”

About John D. Hughes
His career in technology spans 28 years, from software developer to CIO. Hughes launched his own IT management consulting firm, GrowthWave, in 2005, providing Interim CIO and CEO Advisory services for clients like Expedia, Sur La Table, Univar USA, MOD Systems and SeaBright Holdings, Inc. Haunting the CEO is the author’s first book.

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* InformationWeek.com, November 11, 2010, “Global CIO: Top 10 Stories Of The Year #9: The CIO Transformation” by Bob Evans http://www.informationweek.com/news/global-cio/interviews/showArticle.jhtml?articleID=228200711

Media: Contact author for interviews, review copies, cover art, author pic and sample chapters. The book retails for $21.95 and can be purchased on Amazon.com and through www.hauntingtheceo.com.