If you are a tech leader that has performed well and has the capacity to manage more within your organization, you may have been assigned the responsibility for the IT department—especially if the former IT leader has been removed. This can be a difficult position to be in, particularly if you do not have an IT background.
Rather than assume you can manage your way through it, get help! Work with the other IT talent that is available and consider using outside help to augment your efforts or help you think through strategies.
In other cases, however, the business wants to cut costs and decides to “restructure” by removing the IT leader and simply reassigns responsibility for the IT function to you.
One reason this happens is that it’s assumed the IT department does not understand the business or is not aligned with the business strategy. If this sounds like you, it’s an opportunity to learn how IT efficiency and the appropriate Enterprise Architecture roadmap play an important part in business innovation. Empowering your IT team to be strategic and participate in the development of your business strategy is invaluable—utilize their expertise!
You’ve shifted your perception and recognize the value of your IT team. You’ve empowered your employees throughout the organization. Great work! There are a few additional practical actions to take that will ensure your success and maintain your stability and job security.
- 1. Create a plan to internally support the 10 major IT functions.
- 2. Learn intelligent ways to cut costs without disruption.
- 3. Be humble, and ask for help or clarification to understand an issue. Pretending to know more than you do leads to poor decision making.
- 4. It might be tempting, but don’t defer to the large systems integrator and let them do the majority of the work. It’s important for you to know what’s going on in your department.
With this advice and on the job training, you’ll be navigating your organization like a pro in no time! If you need additional help – reach out. Advancement Strategy offers consulting and advisory services for CIOs and other executive-level decision-makers, especially involving Mergers and Acquisitions.
