IoD certification equips South African CIOs with governance expertise crucial for board-level influence, but achieving true strategic impact ultimately depends on shifting organisational mindsets that still view ICT as a cost centre rather than a strategic partner, says Wits University CIO Dr Stanley Mpofu.
For South African CIOs navigating increasingly complex organisational environments, the Institute of Directors (IoD) certification is gaining attention as a practical credential with board-level relevance. Dr Stanley Mpofu, CIO at the University of the Witwatersrand, shared his perspective on what the qualification offers, and what stands in the way of CIOs claiming their seat at the strategic table.
Dr Mpofu believes the certification has a clear role in equipping CIOs for board engagement, particularly in the context of King V. “There is a need for CIOs to take King V training,” he says, but he is also direct about the limits of certification alone. “The strategic influence requires a mindset change from those in authority who still view ICT as a cost centre and not their strategic partner.” The credential opens the door, but cultural change inside organisations determines whether CIOs are genuinely heard.
The qualification’s practical value, according to Dr Mpofu, lies in its governance grounding and for CIOs overseeing technology projects that intersect with procurement, compliance, and institutional accountability, this foundation is directly applicable. “The certification helps in understanding governance, which in turn attends to issues of procurement and other related activities in the digital transformation journey,” he adds.
Strengthening the CIO's role at board level
When it comes to winning the trust of executives and boards, Dr Mpofu points to governance literacy as the differentiating factor. “The executives will trust a CIO that understands governance because this is a critical component of executing tasks in any organisation.” In regulated environments, a CIO who speaks the language of governance is better positioned to engage peers and oversight bodies on equal footing.
The IoD qualification also broadens what is possible after the CIO role. “It gives an opportunity for CIOs to be engaged with external organisations, perhaps in the capacity of an adviser or sometimes as a board member,” Dr Mpofu notes. For technology leaders looking to extend their influence beyond a single institution, this credential provides a recognised basis for those conversations.
Dr Mpofu is unambiguous about how CIOs should frame the decision to pursue IoD certification. “It is the best thing to do while one is still engaged in the work of a CIO, and it prepares you for future roles such as board member or being chair of ICT committees. It gives you an opportunity to consult as well, days after the CIO role is over.” The credential, in his view, is as much about what comes next as it is about performing better in the current role.
