Digital Leadership: The New CEO Imperative
Source: “Digital Leadership Is Not an Optional Part of Being a CEO” by Josh Bersin, December 01, 2016
The digital disruption facing today’s businesses demands a fundamental shift in CEO leadership. According to MIT research spanning 1,000+ CEOs across 131 countries, 90% of executives acknowledge their businesses face digital disruption, yet 70% lack the capabilities to adapt.
Successful digital transformation requires more than surface-level changes. Companies must “act digital” rather than simply “do digital” – embracing an entirely new management model centered on:
- Empowered Teams: Creating small, autonomous units with clear accountability for customer impact
- Data-Driven Decisions: Implementing real-time information systems to support rapid decision-making
- Platform Thinking: Viewing businesses as adaptable platforms rather than fixed products/services
- Experimental Culture: Encouraging iteration, quick learning, and adaptation
A media company case study demonstrates these principles in action. By organizing into empowered local business units, supported by real-time mobile analytics and minimal middle management, the company achieved both innovation and accountability.
The “network of teams” model replaces traditional hierarchies, enabling organizations to flexibly reorganize as business needs evolve. This approach requires CEOs to focus on:
- Building transparent, information-sharing cultures
- Reinforcing core values consistently
- Aligning teams around shared objectives
The traditional CEO-as-boss model is obsolete. Today’s digital leaders must drive experimentation, innovation, and scalable platforms while maintaining cultural cohesion. Success in the disruptive landscape demands nothing less.
Want to implement digital leadership in your organization? Let’s discuss strategies for transforming your management approach.
#DigitalTransformation #Leadership #Innovation #Management