Technical leadership becoming a critical differentiator at senior level hiring
The landscape of senior-level hiring is undergoing a significant shift, with technical leadership emerging as a critical differentiator alongside traditional leadership qualities. Companies now stress the importance of blending technical expertise with strategic decision-making abilities, making it a prerequisite at all levels of leadership.
Today, C-suite leaders are expected to possess a diverse skill set encompassing people management, change navigation, stakeholder engagement, and technical acumen. This shift towards requiring technical skills is evident across various industries.
According to Pranshu Upadhyay, Regional Director and Head of India Technology Practice at Michael Page, there’s a growing demand for leaders with a deep understanding of technology and systems. Similarly, Somdutta Singh, Founder and CEO of Assiduus Global Inc., highlights the need for board directors to grasp fundamentals like artificial intelligence (AI), big data, and cybersecurity.
Singh emphasizes that while these leaders don’t need to be coding experts, they should be capable of asking pertinent questions and grasping the business implications of technology. For instance, in the fintech sector, where rapid evolution and regulatory changes are constant, boards require directors who can navigate complexities and ensure compliance while fostering innovation.
A case study mentioned by Upadhyay illustrates this shift: a candidate from a non-tech background aiming for a sales leadership role was asked to present a digitalization strategy during the interview process. This demonstrates the increasing emphasis on tech proficiency at strategic levels across various functions, be it sales, HR, or operations.
Technical leadership skills are no longer confined to niche roles; they are becoming essential in boardrooms, notes Singh. CEOs, depending on the company’s nature, may not need coding skills but should understand how technology drives their products or transforms their businesses. This understanding is particularly crucial for roles like Chief Technology Officer (CTO), Chief Product Officer (CPO), and CEOs, where technical fluency or collaboration with technical teams is paramount.
Upadhyay mentions that certifications for independent directors now address these emerging skill requirements, indicating a broader recognition of the importance of technical acumen in leadership roles.
Senior executives are proactively upskilling themselves to stay relevant and combat ageism, embracing continuous learning to align with the evolving demands of leadership in a tech-driven era.