Our Client is looking for a Chief Information Officer (CIO)
Location: India
Reporting to: CEO (preferred) scope)
Organization: Leading Global IT Services Company
Role Context
We are undertaking a confidential search for a Chief Information Officer to lead a next-generation transformation agenda across infrastructure, applications, and AI-led service delivery.
This is not a traditional CIO role. The mandate combines enterprise IT leadership + technology delivery transformation, with a strong emphasis on AI enablement, automation, and client-facing innovation.
Core Mandate
- End-to-End Transformation:
- Drive transformation across infrastructure and application ecosystems, ensuring they are AI-enabled, automated, and future-ready.
- AI-Led Delivery Model:
- Reimagine service delivery by embedding AI across operations — targeting 2x productivity at 50% cost through automation and intelligent systems.
Experience & Innovation:
- Enhance client and internal user experience through modern platforms, faster application cycles, and intelligent infrastructure.
Security & Network Excellence:
- Own secure delivery architecture, including:
- Cybersecurity across operations
- Integration with client networks
- Resilient, scalable infrastructure systems
New Business & Service Creation:
- Partner with leadership to build next-gen services and offerings, especially in AI-driven infrastructure and applications.
Ideal Candidate Profile
Experience & Background
- 17+ years of experience across IT Services / Technology / Digital Engineering
- Strong grounding in either Infrastructure OR Applications (with working knowledge of both)
- Must have hands-on delivery leadership experience (not purely advisory or governance roles)
- Exposure to mobile-first application ecosystems (non-ERP heavy backgrounds preferred)
- Experience across multiple organizations (not a single-company career)
Leadership & Capability
- Proven ability to run large-scale delivery operations
- Demonstrated track record in technology transformation and modernization
- Strong understanding of AI/ML applications in enterprise IT and service delivery
- Ability to translate AI into tangible business and delivery outcomes
- Experience building or scaling new services / business lines
Persona
- High intellectual horsepower (IQ-driven, structured thinker)
- Strong executive presence with the ability to influence board and clients
- Hands-on leader — willing to engage deeply with systems, teams, and delivery challenges
- Operator + Builder mindset (not just strategist)
- Bias for innovation, speed, and execution
Preferred Background Mix
- Blend of IT Services + Product/Platform exposure
- Candidates from high-growth or transformation environments preferred over purely large MNC roles
- Experience in AI-driven transformation initiatives is critical
