Executive search:
Technology, digital and transformation
The leadership and executive recruitment market is expected to remain strong in 2024. Advancements in artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies mean companies are expanding their transformation projects and investing in innovative future proof solutions. Dan Manton, partner of CIO exec for InX, highlights the trends to look out for in 2024.
Here are the key areas leaders need to prepare for in 2024:
Positive outlook – why new technology is driving the search for the leaders of the future.
Hybrid working – how businesses are creating environments and cultures that work.
InX survey – top research results from our ‘View from the Top’ survey.
The last year has been significantly more challenging than 2022 at the senior leadership level, with the backdrop of rising interest rates, geopolitical challenges, and general instability in the market.
CEOs and hiring managers are thinking carefully before hiring their next strategic technology leaders, with many waiting until the new year 2024, to finalise plans. This has seen a rise in the interim marketplace, giving opportunity for tech leaders to keep the technology function operating whilst smaller transformation projects begin. Largescale transformation has been put on hold in most instances, again due to boards keeping a close eye on cost and cashflow in an uncertain market.
On a positive note, 2024 will be a better year as a result. Boards are already thinking about how they want to operate in 2024 and beyond – and how technology will play its part to add value across the business.
Remote working allows leaders to foster a global network that transcends geographical boundaries. This exposure not only enhances professional development but also positions tech professionals at the forefront of global innovation and industry trends.
It feels that businesses are still getting to grips with hybrid working and how leaders can lead from afar and create environments and cultures that work for their organisation. Flexible working offers opportunities to improve diversity, opening the door to leaders across the globe.
Results from the View from the Top InX survey show priorities from the board and CIO or CTO slightly differ. Boards are looking for answers on new technology such as artificial intelligence and generative AI and the impact this will have on the business.
This contrasts with CIOs feeling that security and data are the core focus areas, putting AI way down in fifth place of priorities.
For the technology leaders to add value to the organisation in 2024, they will have to be very clear on the board’s priorities and adjust accordingly.
Companies are expanding their transformation projects and investing in innovative solutions with smaller, carefully focused projects. As a result, the demand for skilled tech professionals will increase in 2024. The fast-paced nature of the tech industry means that learning and skill development are ongoing priorities for tech managers in 2024.
As companies continue to compete to push the boundaries of innovation, the demand for highly skilled leaders capable of delivering developments in groundbreaking technologies, will remain high.
