Will we see a CTO now become the next CEO - because every business is a tech business

AI enabled Unilever to remix over 100 pieces of influencer content into different formats for various platforms and audiences. Will we see a CTO now become the next CEO?

Unilever is turbocharging its influencer marketing efforts in an attempt to make products like Dove soap go viral on social media—and it’s using #AI to do it. Currently the company works with tens of thousands of influencers and is aiming to grow that by 10 to 20 times over the next year. This is the impact its CTO is having.

As digital transformation accelerates across industries, a fundamental shift is occurring in corporate leadership. Traditional business models are being disrupted by technology, raising a critical question: Are Chief Technology Officers (CTOs) positioned to become the next generation of CEOs?

Why Every Business Is a Tech Business Now

Digital-First Operations

Modern companies rely on technology for core operations, from supply chain management to customer engagement. Even traditional industries like retail, manufacturing, and consumer goods are becoming technology-driven enterprises.

Data-Driven Decision Making

Business success increasingly depends on leveraging data analytics, artificial intelligence, and machine learning. Leaders who understand these technologies have a significant advantage in strategic planning and execution.

Customer Experience Revolution

Today's consumers expect seamless digital experiences across all touchpoints. Companies that fail to deliver technology-enabled customer journeys risk losing market share to more digitally savvy competitors.