Chief Information Officer

Chief Information Officer job description

The Chief Information Officer (CIO) provides executive leadership over the organisation’s technology strategy, governance, and digital innovation. This role ensures IT services are aligned with business goals, secure, and compliant with New Zealand regulatory frameworks, while enabling enterprise-wide transformation and operational efficiency.

Typical Chief Information Officer duties

Key responsibilities of a CIO include:

Developing and executing IT and digital strategies that drive business growth and resilience

Leading enterprise governance of IT systems, cybersecurity, and data in compliance with the NZ Privacy Act and ISO 27001

Overseeing IT operations, infrastructure, digital platforms, and innovation initiatives

Aligning technology investment with business priorities through effective budgeting, risk management, and value realisation

Building and leading high-performing IT teams, including leadership across architecture, development, support, and security functions

Partnering with the executive team to advise on emerging technologies, business enablement, and digital transformation

Managing vendor relationships, procurement strategies, and contract negotiations

Driving improvements in IT service delivery, customer experience, and business continuity

Ensuring transparent communication and reporting of IT performance, risks, and compliance across the organisation

Chief Information Officer job qualifications and requirements

A degree in information technology, computer science, or a related field is required. Executive-level certifications in IT governance, cloud architecture, or cybersecurity are highly regarded.

Requirements include:

10+ years’ senior IT leadership experience, including at least 5 years in an executive or strategic role

Proven success in leading enterprise IT strategy, governance, and transformation

Deep understanding of New Zealand data protection, digital compliance, and cybersecurity regulations

Strong commercial acumen and experience influencing executive and board-level stakeholders

Track record of leading large-scale IT functions, project portfolios, and business change initiatives

Exceptional leadership, communication, and strategic planning skills

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Salary for Chief Information Officer

250000 - 350000

25th percentile

250000

The candidate is new to the role or has limited experience and is building necessary skills.

50th percentile

280000

The candidate has moderate experience in the role, meets most requirements or has equivalent transferable skills, and may also have relevant certifications.

75th percentile

350000

The candidate has extensive experience and advanced skills for the role, and may also have specialised certifications.

Salary range based on three percentiles The starting salaries represent gross yearly salaries. They do not include bonuses, benefits or KiwiSaver.

Projected salaries for related positions

Job title

25th percentile

50th percentile

75th percentile

IT Manager

135000

150000

175000

Head of IT

160000

180000

200000

Head of Data

180000

200000

230000

Software Development Manager

180000

200000

230000

Head of Product

160000

180000

200000

Chief Technology Officer

250000

280000

350000

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Our starting salary projections come from a detailed, multistep process that ensures our numbers accurately reflect the marketplace. They’re based on real compensation data for job candidates our recruiters have matched with companies across the country.

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