NOVEMBER 2019CIOAPPLICATIONS.COM8In My View Lesley W. Beasley Jr.Role of an IT Leader TodayThe role of the IT leader has changed dramatically over the years, and it continues to evolve. Our role is no longer just about maintaining systems, or what used to be viewed as keeping the lights on. Today, in most companies, IT is an essential partner in executing a company's strategic plan. At Ingredion, we are transforming the business, and the IT function plays an important role. We bring innovation to business processes, change paradigms with disruptive technologies and drive digital transformations to support Ingredion's transformation and growth. I define the IT leader's role in three broad categories: ·Developing and communicating an IT strategy that supports the business strategy At Ingredion, a business focus area is improving the customer experience. In this case, the IT strategy not only supports this initiative, but we strive to push the envelope and innovate in areas that may be less obvious. In other words, add value by steering the business into new ways of thinking and collaborating. Anticipate long-term outcomes and find solutions to potential problems. · Develop MetricsTypically we measure IT cost as a percent of revenue, which is straightforward. However, it's important to consider other metrics beyond cost, and this may require a less traditional approach. For example, a new innovative mobile technology might enhance employee collaboration. Capturing this might The Role of IT as a Strategic Business PartnerMike Knezevich, Director-IT, Ingredion Incorporatedrequire collaboration with the HR department on the employee survey. Regardless of what is measured, be it cost or innovation related, the metrics must be defined in business terms so everyone can recognize when progress is made and see how IT adds value. Hand in hand with metrics comes focus and a continuous improvement mentality, as change must be embraced to remain competitive.· Prioritize IT initiatives Initiatives should balance the foundational aspects of IT with innovation to drive business value. At Ingredion, data center consolidations and IT service delivery excellence are the two foundational elements of our IT operating excellence. The initiatives that will drive innovation must support key business strategies. One of Ingredion's goals is to evolve our portfolio of ingredients from basic sweeteners and starches to higher-value specialty ingredients that have more functionality, and help customers keep up with consumer trends, like clean labels, health and wellness and non-GMO. IT is focusing on an enterprise digital strategy and advanced analytics to support this goal. Finally, it's important to constantly assess IT priorities and refresh as necessary to align with the business strategy. Making Business Counterparts Think Differently About the Importance of ITIT needs to be a trusted advisor and partner to the business, and to accomplish this you need the
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