Gartner predicts that by 2025, 80% of CIOs will be explicitly measured on their ability to contribute to revenue growth. This shift underscores the evolving role of CIOs, CTOs and senior technology leaders in Asia, who now must navigate a landscape marked by rapid technological disruptions, geopolitical tensions, and economic uncertainties.

In this complex environment, CIOs are no longer confined to traditional technology management roles. They are increasingly viewed as strategic architects of business value, tasked with aligning technology and cybersecurity investments with broader business objectives. This transformation necessitates that they justify their technology expenditures to the board, demonstrating how these investments drive growth, innovation, and security.

Industry experts emphasise the importance of a data-driven culture and strategic alignment in achieving these goals. For instance, Franco Chiam, Vice President at IDC Asia/Pacific, notes that “CIOs must embed technologies like AI into the very DNA of business as a strategic ally in addressing business challenges and opportunities.” This perspective highlights the necessity for technology leaders to not only adopt new technologies but also integrate them into core business strategies.

As CIOs face increasing scrutiny on their roles in protecting revenue streams and ensuring business continuity, they must leverage data analytics and AI to inform decision-making and drive customer engagement. IDC predicts that by 2025, 40% of CIOs will prioritise strategic data management and foster a data-centric culture. This shift is crucial for maintaining a competitive edge in the rapidly evolving digital landscape, especially in Asia, where regulatory compliance and data privacy are paramount.

The upcoming FutureCIO Malaysia Conference 2025, themed “Pathways Towards Differentiated Success“, will focus on how IT leaders can enhance IT value by ensuring that technology initiatives contribute directly to business growth, resilience, and competitive advantage. The conference will feature insights from industry leaders and practitioners, addressing key topics such as:

• Technology business partnering
• IT and security optimisation
• Reality check of emerging technologies adoption
• Balancing innovation with operational continuity
• Maintaining business and operational resilience

As we approach 2025, the role of technology leaders in Asia will increasingly reflect a dual focus on driving business value while ensuring robust cybersecurity measures are in place. The ability to navigate these challenges will be critical for success in an ever-evolving digital landscape.

WHO SHOULD ATTEND?

CIOs, CTOs, Directors, Heads, MDs, SVPs, VPs, Leads, involved in: