The CDO hot seat - Why so many CDOs fail in the first 12 months

The Chief Digital Officer (CDO) is a highly sought-after executive role in today's business world, as companies scramble to keep up with the rapid pace of digital transformation. However, despite the high demand for CDOs, many of these executives find themselves in a precarious position after just 12 months on the job. In this article, we will examine why so many CDOs fail to thrive in their roles and what can be done to ensure their success.

• Lack of clear mandate: One of the primary reasons CDOs struggle is a lack of clarity around their role and responsibilities. Many companies appoint a CDO without fully understanding what they expect from the role, or what the CDO should be responsible for. This can lead to confusion and a lack of direction, making it difficult for the CDO to make an impact.
• Resistance to change: Another major challenge faced by CDOs is resistance to change from other departments within the company. While the CDO is tasked with driving digital transformation, other departments may be more comfortable with the status quo and may be reluctant to embrace new technologies or processes. This can create roadblocks for the CDO and make it difficult for them to achieve their goals.
• Lack of resources: Many CDOs also struggle due to a lack of resources. Digital transformation requires investment, and without the necessary funding, the CDO may not be able to implement the changes they need to drive the company forward.
• Inadequate support from senior leadership: CDOs also need strong support from senior leadership to succeed. If the CEO and other executives are not fully behind the digital transformation initiative, it can be difficult for the CDO to make progress. This can also lead to a lack of buy-in from other departments, making it even harder for the CDO to achieve their goals.
• Lack of technical expertise: Finally, many CDOs struggle due to a lack of technical expertise. While they may have a good understanding of the digital landscape, they may not have the technical knowledge required to drive change. This can make it difficult for them to lead digital transformation initiatives effectively.

In conclusion, the hot seat of the CDO is a challenging role, and many CDOs struggle to thrive in the first 12 months. To overcome these challenges, companies must provide their CDOs with a clear mandate, support from senior leadership, and the necessary resources to drive digital transformation. Additionally, CDOs must be equipped with the technical knowledge and expertise needed to lead change effectively. With the right support and resources, CDOs can be the driving force behind digital transformation, helping companies to remain competitive in today's rapidly changing business landscape.