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Interim CIO/CTO
Interim CIO/CTO Technology Strategy Technology Tune-up Project Office Project Management Other Services

Overview

Many companies do not require a full-time CIO or CTO, but at times could significantly benefit from the services a CIO or CTO provides.  Also, some companies with CIOs (typically very busy CIOs) may experience busy periods when they could use senior level, overflow assistance.  For example, efforts to develop and launch a new product might be more successful when guided by a seasoned executive.

Ascendant Services can help your company during these periods of need by providing - on demand - the CIO/CTO services you require. 

What is a CIO and CTO?

Historically, and at larger companies, A CIO (Chief Information Officer) holds the highest level of responsibility for a company's information technology (infrastructure, systems, applications, etc.).  A CTO (Chief Technology Officer) reports to the CIO and is the senior technology strategist and architect. 

There has been a lot of recent blending between these titles, and they are often used interchangeably.   In an organization that has one (but not both) titles, you can assume the person is the senior technology leader for the company.

The Gartner Group defines the mission of the CIO to be "To provide technology vision and leadership for developing and implementing IT initiatives that create and maintain leadership for the enterprise in a constantly changing and intensely competitive marketplace."  Further, "[The CIO] is a key management position for the organization responsible for IT policy and aligning IT strategy with business strategies." 

A CIO or CTO typically reports to the CEO, COO or CFO.

What does a CIO/CTO do?

Some typical responsibilities of a CIO/CTO are to:

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Set strategy, and lead planning and budgeting, for business technology.  Provide leadership and vision for technology and new products to the executive suite.

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Lead, structure and staff the technology organization.

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Overall ownership for applications development for both new and existing initiatives (including products).

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Overall ownership for the operations of, investment in, and integrity of IT infrastructure and architecture.

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Set guidelines for, and oversee the process of: establishing strategic partnerships; making make vs. buy decisions; selecting vendors; and choosing to outsource or provision in-house.

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Continually improve technologies to: make it easier for customers and suppliers to do business with the company;  enhance customer satisfaction; and to increase profitability.

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Ensure adequate policies, procedures, controls, and training are in place in regards to technology and information protection.

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Set quality and security standards and processes

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Establish project management and development methodologies so that initiatives are implemented on time, within budget, and within expectations.

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Incrementally improve efficiency, productivity, and quality through technology and methodology.

What Does Ascendant Services Offer?

We employ and partner with consultants who:

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Have been CIOs, CTOs and technology executives with a track record of success

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Have the right skills and personal attributes

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Offer years of relevant experience and education

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Know how to be an effective, interim executive

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Are excited and motivated to help companies with critical initiatives

Please contact us to discuss whether we can help!

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