Be the Business: CIOs in the New Era of IT

Heller, president of Heller Search Associates, an executive recruiting firm specializing in information technology (IT), astutely examines ongoing changes in the role of chief information officers (CIOs) and the current challenges they face. She states that IT has moved from the sidelines to "the heart of every business," creating a host of new problems, including rogue non-IT employees who buy or build their own equipment and believe they can do IT's job better than the IT department. She also argues that IT should help define business strategy, not just enable it. To illustrate her points and bring in new ideas, Heller interviews the CIOs of major corporations, including Rhonda Gass of Stanley Black & Decker, Eash Sundaram of JetBlue, and Bruce Hoffmeister of Marriott International. Using her recruitment experience, Heller clearly explains the skill sets that will be required of up-and-coming CIOs. Topics such as quantifying IT, managing products, and increasing pace without sacrificing quality or security round out this enlightening work. Heller thoroughly explores the many changes and challenges that technology executives face and enumerates steps to success. Her book is essential reading for every CIO and CEO who wants to harness the power of IT. (Oct.)