Summary of Key Leaders - Roles and Responsibilities

CTO

Technology Strategy. The CTO's primary responsibility is contributing to the strategic direction of the company by identifying the role that specific technologies will play in its future growth. The CTO looks for contributions that technology can make to the competitive advantage of the company.

Internal Coordination. Identification of the best technologies usually comes from a strong internal network of people who are in touch with the latest technologies and understand their potential.

External Partnerships. Like all business professionals, the CTO will be part of a strong network that includes business partners, academics, government officials, and technology thought leaders.

CIO

Information Technology Application. The CIO leads the application of information technology to internal processes and services. This person is responsible for improving the efficiency of internal systems like payroll, accounting, accounts receivable, labor recording, benefits management, human resources records, government reporting, and a number of others.

Reduce Internal Operating Costs. The CIO's systems are focused on reducing the costs associated with the company operations listed above.

Improve Services to Employees and Partners. CIOs and IT departments have provided fantastic improvements in employee services in the last two decades. They have also built systems that allow better information and financial exchange with business partners.

Chief Scientist

Technology Creation. Chief Scientists lead teams that are focused on creating new technologies. Given strategic direction from management, these teams work to create products or services that make the company's strategy possible and that do so in a manner superior to their competitors.

Recognized Leader. Chief Scientists should be recognized leaders in their technical field. They should be actively involved in professional associations and conferences with their peers in industry and academia.