More CIOs sharing digital leadership, Gartner survey finds

FLORIDA, UNITED STATES — A new Gartner survey finds 45% of chief information officers (CIOs) now share digital leadership responsibilities with other C-suite executives. This signals a shift toward “co-ownership” of enterprise-wide digital transformation.
The 2024 Gartner CIO and Technology Executive Survey surveyed 2,457 CIOs across 84 countries.
Gartner Distinguished VP Analyst Mandi Bishop said “CIOs face a paradigm shift, sharing leadership with CxOs (chief experience officers) to deliver digital success.”
To accelerate democratized digital delivery, 64% of CIOs have adopted or will soon adopt low-code platforms. Seventy percent believe generative AI is a game-changer. While only 9% have deployed it so far, 55% intend to within two years.
CIOs said their top 2024 investments are cybersecurity, data analytics, and cloud platforms. They aim to improve customer experience, margins, and revenue through digital investments.
Forty-two percent of CIOs want to grow their current role. Forty-three percent hope to expand responsibilities. “CIOs must be at the top of their game in delivering business outcomes to reach the next level,” said Bishop.
Gartner identified three CIO profiles:
- Operators (55%): Retain responsibility, partnering with CxOs
- Explorers (33%): Involving CxOs in delivery
- Franchisers (12%): Co-leading initiatives in fusion teams
Franchisers are most likely to meet digital outcome targets. They also excel at leadership development and digital strategy.
“CIO and CXO co-ownership of digital delivery is an indivisible part of enterprise – not just functional – outcome attainment,” said Janelle Hill, Distinguished VP Analyst.
Co-governance is also increasing. Forty-seven percent of franchisers say businesses should share compliance and risk responsibility, versus just 19% of operators.