Chief Information Officer

Background information:

For one of our clients, a privately owned industrial group with global operations, we are currently seeking to appoint a Chief Information Officer. Our client is a midmarket company with 150M turnover which is pursuing an ambitious buy & build strategy. The CIO role is a newly established executive committee position, reporting to the CEO and responsible for driving the group’s digital transformation and innovation agenda.

Your responsibilities:

As CIO, you will lead the strategic digital transformation and innovation agenda across the group, enabling operational excellence, customer-centric solutions, and scalable international growth. You will be the driving force behind the implementation of digital and data-powered solutions to boost operational performance, customer value, and business agility.

Digital Strategy & Transformation

• Define and execute the digital transformation roadmap aligned with company strategy and international growth ambitions
• Lead the implementation of scalable digital platforms and tools across all business units (incl. operations, supply chain, customer services, engineering)
• Ensure robust digital governance and data integrity frameworks are in place
• Embed a digital-first mindset and ensure governance for scalable and secure digital solutions

Innovation Leadership

• Identify, evaluate, and pilot emerging technologies (e.g. AI, IoT, advanced analytics) that bring business value
• Develop innovation programs in collaboration with internal and external stakeholders
• Facilitate cross-functional ideation and design thinking initiatives to drive continuous improvement and disruptive thinking
• Promote modern learning using virtual tools (e.g., smart glasses, digital simulations) to accelerate onboarding and upskilling.
• Facilitate market insights and internal knowledge development via the introduction of an AI-powered knowledge center

Operational Enablement & Data Value Creation

• Drive operational efficiency through digital process automation, data integration, and real-time performance monitoring (e.g., in maintenance planning, defect anticipation, supply chain optimization)
• Champion data analytics initiatives to support predictive maintenance, performance optimization, and customer insights
• Collaborate with Engineering, Supply Chain, Operations, etc. to ensure seamless integration of digital solutions in daily operations
• Drive automation of back-office functions such as HR admin, billing, and payroll, leveraging operations data and communication tools

Leadership & Stakeholder Management

• Build and lead a high-performing digital & innovation team, fostering ownership, creativity, and business impact
• Act as a change agent and ambassador for innovation internally and externally
• Engage with customers and partners to co-create digital solutions and ensure alignment with industry standards
• Support change management efforts and ensure digital adoption through structured enablement and support programs

Your profile:

• Master’s degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Business Administration or related field
• Minimum 8-10 years of experience in digital transformation, innovation, or technology leadership roles, ideally within the aviation or industrial services sector
• Proven track record in designing and executing enterprise-wide digital initiatives and AI-based solutions
• Strong knowledge of emerging digital technologies and their business applications
• Expertise in ERP systems, data platforms, and predictive technologies
• Strong communication, change management, and stakeholder engagement skills
• Fluency in English, and Dutch and/or French