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From Reactive to Proactive: IT Leaders Are Forging a New Path in 2025
IT leaders are stepping into a new era, shifting from reactive problem solving to proactively building the future. According to a report from Canon Europe, IT job roles in 2025 will focus more on strategic innovation, supported by robust partnerships with the different business areas they serve. While the road ahead is exciting, it is not without its challenges.
From tactical problem solvers to strategic thinkers
During the early phases of flexible working, IT leaders’ roles were mainly characterised by resolving day-to-day operational issues. However the landscape has changed significantly. Today, over three quarters (79%) of ITDMs feel more fulfilled in their job than ever before[1], largely due to a greater emphasis on strategic work.
For example, in 2019 less than a fifth of ITDMs (19%) reported dedicating significant time to IT strategy, compared to almost half (46%) today. Similarly, the focus on automation has grown, enabling IT teams to optimise day to day operations, while driving productivity, efficiency and profitability.
Fine tuning flexible working for the future
While much progress has been made, flexible working remains a priority for IT teams, as 98% of ITDMs continue to prioritise the enhancement of remote and hybrid work set-ups.[2] However, challenges have evolved from simply keeping the ‘lights on’.
For IT leaders today, challenges centre around fine tuning the workplace to foster collaboration and productivity. Nearly half (47%) are focused on better integrating office infrastructure for seamless workflows.[3]
Flexible working has also intensified security concerns. Security has topped IT leaders’ list of challenges, with flexible working models only exacerbating those concerns. [4] In fact, 45% of respondents identified it as a key area for investment in 2025.[5] However, with more headspace to think strategically about the future, IT leaders are proactively addressing barriers with new technologies instead of reactive measures.
Strategic priorities for ITDMs in 2025
The experiences of the last few years have defined a forward-looking agenda for 2025, with over two thirds (68%) reporting a sense of excitement in their role.[6] Next year will be defined by:
- AI Adoption: Over two thirds of ITDMs predicting AI will become their top investment priority by 2025, up from 55% in 2019.[7]
- Automation: Expected to revolutionise the IT function, liberating leaders from routine tasks to focus on high value initiatives. More than half of ITDMs (51%) see automation as a tool to shift to more strategic work and 50% note it would enable faster resolution of employee issues.[8]
- Sustainability: While still niche, energy-efficient technology is gaining traction, with 38% of ITDMs predicting it will be a key focus in 2025.[9]
Entering a new proactive future for IT
As we shift into this new era, IT will not only adapt to the demands of a flexible, digital first world but will have a hand in redefining what it means to lead in production, innovation and strategic impact.
Find out more about Canon’s Solutions.
[1] Canon Europe, IT Transformation Barometer Report, 2024
[2] Canon Europe, IT Transformation Barometer Report, 2024
[3] Canon Europe, IT Transformation Barometer Report, 2024
[4] Canon Europe, IT Transformation Barometer Report, 2024
[5] Canon Europe, IT Transformation Barometer Report, 2024
[6] Canon Europe, IT Transformation Barometer Report, 2024
[7] Canon Europe, IT Transformation Barometer Report, 2024
