CIO Mind, The Gartner CIO Podcast
What to Do Before You Say ‘Yes’ or ‘No’ to a New CIO Role
Mar 26, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Tom Fuller, Senior Executive Partner at Gartner with vast experience across sectors, shares crucial insights for CIOs navigating new roles. He emphasizes the importance of thorough preparation, offering a pre-flight checklist that includes understanding stakeholder dynamics and personal branding. Fuller highlights the unique challenges of CIO transitions, advocating for a proactive mindset and extending the adjustment period beyond 90 days. These strategies can significantly enhance a CIO's chances of success in their new position.
18:35
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Quick takeaways
- CIOs can significantly enhance their transition success by proactively preparing and engaging with key stakeholders before starting their new roles.
- Understanding the complexities of different transition types allows CIOs to extend their planning horizon beyond just the initial 90 days.
Deep dives
Underestimation of Pre-Role Preparations
CIOs often underestimate the proactive steps they can take before officially starting their new roles. Insights gathered from conversations with various executives reveal that many are surprised by the opportunities available for preparation. Gartner research indicates that a significant number of executives face challenges during transitions, with over 40% underperforming in their new roles. By recognizing their ability to engage in meaningful groundwork prior to starting, CIOs can better position themselves for success and navigate the complexities of their roles more effectively.
