Governing Body Spotlight

Jyothsna Gade is a technology visionary and results-oriented senior executive with a proven track record of building and leading world-class technology and cybersecurity organizations for multibillion dollar businesses. Jyothsna has extensive experience providing advisory services to Fortune 500 companies globally and excels at designing and implementing technology strategies that drive business transformation and revenue growth across industries.

A fun fact about Jyothsna is that she is passionate about hiking and loves spending time outdoors with her husband and three children.

Learn more about the San Franciso CIO community here.
 

Give us a brief overview of the path that led to your current role.

My journey to this role began with a strong foundation in technology, starting with my education in computer science and engineering. I then gained valuable experience working in various technology leadership positions, honing my skills in areas such as AI/ML, cloud, software engineering and cybersecurity.

I continued to advance my career by taking on leadership roles within technology departments, where I developed strategic plans and implemented innovative solutions to drive business growth. Through my dedication to staying current with emerging technologies and trends, I positioned myself as a trusted advisor to senior leadership, which ultimately led to my appointment as CIO.

I am grateful for the opportunities and experiences that have shaped my career path and look forward to continuing to drive technological advancements and digital transformations.
 

What is one of your guiding leadership principles?

One of my guiding leadership principles is to always prioritize open communication and collaboration within my team. I believe that fostering a culture of transparency and teamwork is essential for driving innovation and achieving our goals efficiently. By encouraging open dialogue and promoting a collaborative mindset, we can leverage the diverse talents and perspectives of our team members to address challenges and seize opportunities in a strategic and impactful manner.
 

What is the greatest challenge your particular C-level role is facing today, and how are you addressing it?

The greatest challenge I am facing today is ensuring that our organization remains secure and protected from cyber threats. With the rapidly evolving technological landscape and increasing sophistication of cyber attacks, it is crucial for us to stay one step ahead in terms of cybersecurity.

To address this challenge, I have implemented a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy that includes regular security assessments, employee training programs, and the use of advanced security tools and technologies. I also closely monitor emerging threats and trends in order to proactively mitigate potential risks.

Additionally, I work closely with other departments within the organization to ensure that cybersecurity is integrated into all aspects of our operations. By taking a proactive and collaborative approach, we are able to effectively address the growing cybersecurity challenges and safeguard our organization's data and assets.
 

What is the key to success for someone just starting out as a CIO?

The key to success for someone just starting out in a C-level role is to develop a clear strategic vision for the organization and align all technology initiatives with that vision. It is important to build strong relationships with key stakeholders, communicate effectively with the team, and continuously adapt to the evolving technology landscape. Additionally, a CIO should prioritize innovation, stay current on industry trends, and focus on driving value for the business through technology solutions. Continuous learning and personal development are also essential to succeed in a C-level role.
 

How do you measure success as a leader?

I measure success as a leader by a few key metrics. Firstly, I look at the overall performance and success of the IT department and the impact it has on the organization as a whole. This includes metrics such as project delivery timelines, budget adherence, and the level of innovation and technology adoption within the company.

Additionally, I assess my success as a leader based on the development and growth of my team members. I believe that a leader's success is measured by the success of their team, so I track metrics such as employee satisfaction, retention rates, and professional development opportunities provided to my team.

Lastly, I also place importance on stakeholder satisfaction and feedback. This includes engaging with key stakeholders to understand their needs and expectations, and ensuring that IT initiatives align with the broader strategic goals of the organization.

Overall, I believe that success as a leader is a combination of tangible results, team development, and stakeholder satisfaction. By focusing on these areas, I can effectively measure and track my success as a CIO.
 

What is the value of being a member of the Evanta community?

Being a member of the Evanta community has immense value. It provides access to a network of fellow CIOs and thought leaders who can offer valuable insights, advice, and best practices. The community also offers opportunities for professional development through events, workshops, and forums that can help us stay informed about the latest trends and innovations in the industry. Additionally, being part of the Evanta community allows us to build meaningful relationships, collaborate with peers, and leverage the collective knowledge and experience of the group to drive success in our own organizations.
 

Evanta Governing Body members share their insights and leadership perspectives to shape the agendas and topics that address the top priorities impacting business leaders today.
 

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