From One CIO to Another
Hard-Earned Lessons on Leading IT in a Changing World
Rik Wright
Managing Partner
Navigating the ever-changing world of IT can be quite an adventure.
With cyber threats evolving, budgets under the microscope, and technology playing a dual role as both the backbone and the driving force of business success, the role of a CIO has never been more demanding.
Through my journey tackling these challenges, I've discovered that the most valuable insights often come from real-world experiences and chats with peers rather than just theory. That's why I’ve shared my thoughts and lessons learned during my years as a CIO in my column at MES Computing. Below, you'll find some key takeaways from my articles.
Convincing The C-Suite To Fund Cybersecurity Projects.
Securing executive buy-in for cybersecurity investment can be a challenge. Many leaders still view security as an expense rather than an essential business safeguard. The most effective approach is to present compelling data—real-world breach examples, industry benchmarks, and risk assessments—to highlight the financial and operational consequences of underinvestment. Read more
Practical Pointers For Getting Started with Zero Trust
Zero Trust is not just a security framework but a fundamental shift in how organizations manage access and safeguard critical assets. Transitioning from "trust but verify" to "verify everything, trust nothing" requires a step-by-step approach, starting with identifying vulnerabilities, addressing quick wins, and building a comprehensive strategy over time. Read more
CIOs Should Know Their Business As Well As Their COOs, CROs, and CFOs
The modern CIO must go beyond technology expertise and develop a deep understanding of business strategy. The ability to align IT with financial and operational goals transforms the CIO’s role from a technical leader to a strategic partner, positioning IT as a driver of efficiency, innovation, and competitive advantage. Read more
How CIOs Can Use A GRC Framework As A Blueprint For Executive Influence
Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC) is more than a regulatory obligation—it is a tool for strategic decision-making. CIOs who use GRC frameworks to communicate risk in terms of business impact can strengthen their influence at the executive level and integrate security into broader business objectives. Read more
The Balancing Act Of Effectively Managing Offshore And Onshore IT Resources
A hybrid IT workforce, combining offshore and onshore resources, offers significant benefits but also introduces operational complexities. Effective management requires clear communication, cultural awareness, and alignment with business priorities to ensure a cohesive and productive IT strategy. Read more
Why CIOs and CISOs Are Always Looking Over Their Shoulders
The pressure on CIOs and CISOs has never been greater. As cyber threats grow more sophisticated and regulators increase accountability, security leaders must remain proactive. Navigating this evolving landscape requires vigilance and a strong alignment between cybersecurity initiatives and business resilience. Read more
The Path Forward
The role of the CIO continues to evolve, requiring a balance of technical expertise, strategic vision, and leadership. Whether advocating for cybersecurity investment, enabling digital transformation, or managing global IT operations, the challenges remain significant—but so do the opportunities.