Our greatest challenge is global collaboration while maintaining security. ContourGlobal is a rapid user of the Cloud and our business spans geographies which often challenge the realms of connectivity and to keep pace with user expectations, our delivery model must accommodate agility and security. Data is the hottest commodity and as we expand to introduce remote operations, Cloud based centralized BI is on our radar.
The areas in business environment where solutions do not yet exist or not up to the mark, and which if existed, would've made job easier
Two key drivers to my sleepless nights; the basics and IT as a business partner. The basics can seem like they have a tick in the box, but without regular and measured attention, the most basic of service can rapidly decline.
Technology trends impacting the sector
Data, it’s all about data. Manipulation, presentation, mobility, security and interpretation; applying reactive and proactive solutions to suit our multi-faceted business. My other focus is on centralized remote management – power plants are an interesting business and one in which mainstream IT has been overlooked. As we move to more renewable resources for power generation, we are also looking to high speed connectivity via centralized remote solutions to enhance the ROI on renewables.
My roles and responsibilities as a CIO
My role has become more of a strategic business partner rather than one of architecture and infrastructure; no longer in the dark room or the basement, IT is now on the frontend and influencing key business decisions. Creating a culture of transparency to allow the business to see tangible results of their investment in technology – see, touch and feel the benefits. We are now true cross-functional partners, going beyond traditional IT and providing value in many forms such as project management, process design and implementation policies.
Lessons learned as a CIO
KYC and keep ahead of the pace. IT is a broad subject and with the advancement of information distribution, your business is most likely obtaining updates on new trends and revenue drivers, before you have time to blink. Pulled in all directions is part of the job, ensuring your strategy stays on course to achieve the business objectives is the real definition of success in this business.
