The role of Chief Digital Officer (CDO) is witnessing a decline, with businesses increasingly questioning the need for such a position. The number of new CDO appointments fell by 7.5% from 2018 to 2019, marking the first drop since the role’s inception. The drop is attributed to the maturation of digital transformation, with digital capabilities now embedded across organisations, reducing the need for a dedicated digital leader.
CDOs are also facing a lack of clarity over their roles and responsibilities, often overlapping with those of Chief Information Officers (CIOs) and Chief Technology Officers (CTOs). This confusion can lead to tension and inefficiencies within the leadership team.
Despite the decline, the role of the CDO remains critical in certain industries, such as media, retail, and government, where digital transformation is still in its early stages. In these sectors, CDOs play a vital role in driving digital initiatives and fostering a culture of innovation.
The future of the CDO role is uncertain, with some predicting its demise, while others foresee its evolution into a more strategic role. The key to survival may lie in the CDO’s ability to demonstrate value beyond digital transformation, such as in driving business growth and innovation.
Go to source article: https://www.strategy-business.com/blog/Have-we-reached-peak-chief-digital-officer