"New" Job, Same Location
An unexpected event this past week - turnover at the top IT position here, as our CIO is moving on to another opportunity. It is a great move for him, puts him back into the (larger) size and scope of company that he has worked at in the past - congratulations all around.
The transition has been relatively smooth; the outgoing CIO, myself, and the lead Tech Ops guy have worked together a long time, and we have implemented effective communications and controls for IT here at Culligan, so none of the transition tasks have been much of a surprise.
As for myself, I am taking on lead IT duties for the company. Currently this is an interim role, as the President of the company needs to make evaluations, consider internal and even external options. I know this approach makes sense, contrary to what other folks may think; over the past 18 months, I've probably spent less than 5 hours in the same room as the President and executive staff, as they have been consumed with the process of selling the company and adapting quickly to the new management / reporting style of the new owners. They need to see and understand what my skills are at the "next level" - most have never had the chance until now.
I also am having to listen intently to my own coaching. With members of the IT team, I often spend time working on their communication styles - too many details, drive to the relevant points. Yet, the first feedback I got from the president (when we sat to review his intentions for the transition) was his perceptions on my communications style - too many details, drive to the relevant points.
An interesting look in the mirror, I must say, and even though I understand the why's and wherefore's, it's a refreshing chance to refocus. Hey - I've got a new boss, a new peer group, and a great opportunity to show I'm ready for the role; I need to develop an effective, audience-appropriate communication style.
Am I disappointed in not simply being given the role? Not really - for the very practical reasons discussed above. The executive team has never seen me perform in a Lead IT role, and my "existence" does not and should not immediately qualify me for the step up. Of course, I know I am ready for the role and am excited at the opportunity to show my capabilities in the void that now exists, but that's really how it should be. I realized this in conversations this week with some of my team, talking about their interest in my position. My reaction is the same as my new boss - I haven't witnessed any specific performance that indicates readiness / skill set for the role, so why assume that?
The end of the year beckons, challenges await - should be fun!
posted by James P. MacLennan at 11:17 AM
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