Tshifhiwa shares key insights on what aspiring executives should consider before making the leap and how to set themselves up for success.
Late last year, Tshifhiwa Ramuthaga took a bold step, transitioning from CIO to CEO of TGR Global Enterprises, the IT company she founded to redefine how businesses harness technology. Before stepping into the CEO role, Tshifhiwa was the group CIO at Barloworld.
Q: What motivated your transition from CIO to CEO?
A: For many years, I have advised organisations, leaders, and CIOs, helping to nurture future leaders both in South Africa and globally, empowering them to fulfil their purpose. This transition from CIO to CEO allows me to do this on a larger scale. It is a natural progression, building on the expertise I’ve gathered and honouring the meaning of my name, which translates to ‘gift to the nations’. As a CEO, I can transform my work into a more rewarding and fulfilling experience, staying true to my purpose. To me, leadership is a heart willing to challenge the status quo, and that commitment has not changed.
Q: What have been the most unexpected challenges and opportunities you’ve encountered in your shift from IT leadership to running the entire business?
A: The transition has unlocked a wealth of opportunities, with overwhelming support from former colleagues and industry contacts who eagerly backed the new business initiative. Their support has been instrumental in our growth, evolving from TGR Global Consultants to TGR Global Enterprises. The business now boasts partners across various industries worldwide, providing comprehensive solutions for our customers.
In addition, we identified a need for community and mentorship for CIOs, which led to the launch of the “CIO Mentorship Programme.” This seven-month, bi-weekly programme will offer a blend of applied theory reflections and practical sessions, empowering current and aspiring CIOs to excel in their roles.
We don’t just focus on CIOs; we also offer the ‘IT for non-IT leaders’ course, designed to empower non-IT leaders to confidently navigate their organisations through technology transformations in the era of AI, digital disruption and cyber risks. IT leadership doesn’t have to be a solitary journey.
Both of our courses are built around personalised assessments using the TGR Global Leadership Assessment tool, which evaluates your IT leadership competencies, identifies areas for development and provides targeted mentorship.
As a CIO, I managed entire businesses from a technology perspective. The real adjustment now has been shifting my focus to encompass the full scope of the business, which I, as a CIO, once supported.
Q: How has your background as a CIO influenced your approach to business strategy, decision-making and driving overall company growth?
A: As a CIO, you're a business executive who drives growth and develops business technology strategies in response to both internal and external factors. This role aligns with the demands of a CEO, ensuring sustainability and growth. In this context, our combined experiences offer valuable insights into the daily challenges faced by CEOs, which ultimately delivers real business value to our customers.
Q: Now that you're in the CEO seat, what do you wish you had known or asked before making the transition?
A: I wish I had asked, “What does stepping into the unknown entail in terms of personal change?” It’s about the art of letting go of the familiar and venturing into uncharted territory, where you learn new skills and build new relationships. It was amusing to realise that I am no longer the CIO – I truly need proper IT support now.
Q: For CIOs considering a move into a CEO role or starting their own business, what key insights or advice would you share to help them prepare for the journey?
A: No matter where you are in your leadership journey, invest in others and contribute to their growth without expecting anything in return. The future will reward you, whether directly or indirectly.
Even if you don’t have a board yet, find an accountability partner – someone who is a seasoned leader you respect. Surround yourself with individuals who have walked the path and can offer guidance for your journey.
Start by defining your ‘why’ – it will guide you through the unknown and strengthen your belief in your vision. Have an anchor –, for me, it’s my faith in God, my family, and my church community.
Stay true to your moral compass and belief system. Ethics in leadership are modelled through actions, not just words.
Remember, you won’t be the expert in every area needed by the business. Bring in the necessary skills – such as marketing – and continuously refine your products and services to meet the evolving needs of your customers.
Enjoy the journey. This is the only life you have, so live it well!
