Interview Questions to Hire Chief Technology Officer (CTO)

Chief Technology Officers play a large role in ensuring the security and stability of internal IT infrastructures and information security within a company, ensuring the systems in place add the highest possible value to the business. In addition, they also ensure the company moves with the latest technology offerings and upgrades. Candidates for this role should have strong technical skills, with an educational background in computer science or related field.

When interviewing a Chief Technology Officer, it is important to identify their general business operations knowledge, along with strong technical skills and relevant educational background. Looking for candidates who have a Bachelor’s degree or above in computer science and relevant experience in the field will be key to making the right hire.

Role Specific Questions

• How would you explain and demonstrate the benefits of a technology initiative to a senior executive such as the CFO?
• If the Technology department's budget was cut for cost-saving initiatives, what would you prioritize to ensure the department ran effectively?
• How do you ensure the company stays up to date with the latest technology?
• How would you approach changing an engrained work culture and a team that is set in its ways?
• How do you adapt to changing situations? Such as altering leadership approaches and motivating your team?
• What Technology metrics would you review on a daily basis? 

Behavioral Questions

• When faced with a new initiative or system rollout, how do you ensure that all team members are on board?
• Tell me about a time you developed and implemented a new technology solution. What was it, and how did you do it?
• How does proper training and rollout of new tech systems benefit the business?

Conclusion

Most Chief Technology Officers will be able to provide comprehensive answers and demonstrate in-depth knowledge of these subject matter questions. Look for answers using the star method, and identify where persons are using specific examples from their previous roles/experience to demonstrate their working knowledge.

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