Hiring a CTO: The Evolution of a Crucial Role
The role of the Chief Technology Officer (CTO) has undergone a major transformation in recent years. In today’s fast-moving tech landscape, hiring a CTO isn’t just about finding someone who can manage infrastructure or oversee engineering teams.
Modern CTOs are expected to bridge the gap between technology and business strategy. They’re no longer purely tech-focused—they’re commercially minded leaders, helping to shape the overall direction of the company.
So, what does the future CTO look like? And how can you ensure you hire the right one for your business?
From tech lead to business strategist
Traditional CTOs were deeply technical, often focused on software architecture, systems and operations. That’s still important – but no longer enough. Today’s CTO must help shape the company’s growth strategy and align tech decisions with broader business goals.
They should work closely with other C-suite leaders to drive innovation, unlock revenue opportunities and improve the customer experience through smart technology use.
Why it matters: A CTO who can’t think commercially risks creating solutions that don’t serve the wider business.
Commercial awareness is key
Hiring a CTO now means looking beyond technical credentials. You need someone who understands market trends, customer behaviours, and how to build a product that delivers commercial success.
Modern CTOs must balance long-term vision with day-to-day decisions that impact profitability. Whether they’re managing vendor relationships or building a scalable platform, business thinking should be at the core.
TechNET CxO tip: Look for candidates who can clearly explain the ROI of past tech decisions – not just the code behind them.
The importance of soft skills
The best CTOs are strong communicators and influencers. They must translate complex technical concepts into language that non-technical stakeholders can understand.
Soft skills also play a role in team leadership, especially when managing hybrid or remote teams and when fostering collaboration across departments.
Why it matters: A technically brilliant CTO who can’t rally a team or align with the board can slow progress.
Tech agility and future thinking
Today’s tech leaders must stay ahead of emerging technologies – from AI and machine learning to cybersecurity and cloud innovations. But it’s not about chasing every trend. It’s about knowing which ones support the business’s long-term direction.
You want a CTO who’s proactive, adaptable and always scanning the horizon for tech that offers a strategic edge.
TechNET CxO tip: Ask how candidates stay current with tech trends and how they decide what’s worth investing in.
What to look for when hiring a CTO
To identify the right CTO for a modern business, ask:
- Can they lead both people and platforms?
- Do they speak the language of growth, not just code?
- Are they customer-focused in their approach to technology?
- Have they worked cross-functionally at the board level?
A successful CTO is as comfortable in the boardroom as they are in a dev stand-up. Want more insight? Find out the top interview questions to ask when hiring a CTO and the most effective way to onboard a CTO.
Here for your executive search needs
Hiring a CTO in 2025 means rethinking what you’re really looking for. It’s not just about tech leadership—it’s about finding someone who can use technology to drive commercial success.
TechNET CxO can help you find CTOs who combine deep technical know-how with sharp business acumen – leaders ready to shape the future. Get in touch with the team today!
