SCOTT MORGAN
Chief Information Officer for the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery
Can you please provide a little introduction about yourself
With over 30 years of experience in technology, I have a proven track record of executing across all disciplines, leveraging my interdisciplinary knowledge to drive innovation and efficiency. My focus has been on devising comprehensive IT strategies that align with organizational goals, underpinned by strong strategic and business acumen.
I specialize in analyzing the costs, value, and risks associated with information technology, enabling me to provide informed advice to management and recommend actionable solutions. My commitment to advancing technology’s role in business continues to shape successful outcomes for the companies I've served.
What path have you taken to your current position?
My journey to becoming CIO has been a multifaceted one, grounded in a Bachelor’s degree in Business with a focus on Computer Science. This educational foundation equipped me with the technical skills and business insight necessary for a successful career in technology.
I began my career in software development, where I honed my programming skills and learned the intricacies of building robust applications. Transitioning into a role as a Database Administrator, I developed a strong understanding of data management and optimization, which laid the groundwork for my later endeavors.
From there, I moved into Network Operations, gaining hands-on experience in infrastructure management and ensuring the seamless connectivity essential for organizational success. This technical experience was complemented by my roles in Organizational Management and Business Operations, where I focused on aligning IT initiatives with business objectives and fostering cross-departmental collaboration.
As I advanced my career, I became increasingly involved in Change Management and Strategic Planning. I recognized the importance of guiding organizations through technological transformations and developing strategies that drive growth and innovation.
Each step along this path has contributed to my holistic understanding of technology and its role in business, ultimately leading to my current position as CIO. Here, I leverage my diverse experience to shape IT strategies that not only enhance operational efficiency but also drive the company’s long-term vision.
Has it always been your vision to reach the position you’re at? Was your current role part of your vision to become a tech leader?
From early in my career, I set this as a long-term goal, motivated by my passion for technology and its potential to drive organizational success. I’ve always been drawn to the challenges that come with this role, particularly the opportunity to implement innovative technologies that align with and support corporate objectives.
Achieving this goal has been a rewarding journey, allowing me to make a meaningful impact on the organizations I’ve been a part of.
Have you had a role model or mentor that has helped you on your journey? (If you feel comfortable, please share their name and how they helped you)
While I haven’t had a specific role model, I’ve been guided by a philosophy that emphasizes developing solutions aimed at empowering all staff to succeed in their careers. This approach has shaped my leadership style and decision-making, focusing on fostering an environment where collaboration and innovation can thrive.
By prioritizing the growth and success of my team, I’ve been able to create a culture that not only supports individual development but also drives organizational success.
How do you see the role of the technology leader evolving over the next 5 years?
As change continues to accelerate, I see the role of the technology leader evolving in several key ways over the next five years. First, technology leaders will need to become even more strategic partners within their organizations, aligning IT initiatives with broader business goals to drive innovation and growth.
Additionally, the focus on data-driven decision-making will intensify, requiring technology leaders to harness analytics and AI to derive insights that inform strategy. Cybersecurity will also be paramount, with technology leaders taking a proactive role in ensuring robust security measures are integrated into all operations.
Moreover, as remote and hybrid work environments become the norm, technology leaders will need to champion digital transformation initiatives that enhance collaboration and productivity across dispersed teams. Finally, fostering a culture of continuous learning and adaptation will be crucial, as technology leaders guide their organizations through the ever-evolving technological landscape. Embracing these changes will not only ensure operational efficiency but also empower teams to thrive in a dynamic environment.
What skills do you think leaders of the future will need in order to thrive?
Leaders of the future will need a diverse set of skills to thrive in an ever-evolving landscape. Key skills include:
- Adaptability: The ability to pivot and respond to rapid changes in technology and market conditions will be essential.
- Strategic Thinking: Leaders must be able to align technology initiatives with business goals and anticipate future trends.
- Cross-Functional Communication: "Bilingual" - Leaders must effectively bridge the gap between business leaders and technology teams, articulating corporate vision and ensuring alignment on objectives.
- Data Literacy: As data becomes increasingly central to decision-making, leaders need to be proficient in interpreting and leveraging data insights.
- Cybersecurity Awareness: A strong understanding of cybersecurity risks and best practices will be vital to protect organizational assets.
- Innovative Mindset: Leaders should encourage creativity and experimentation, promoting a culture where new ideas are welcomed.
- Change Management Skills: The ability to guide teams through transitions and transformations will be crucial for maintaining morale and productivity.
- Collaborative Leadership: Fostering collaboration across departments and with external partners will enhance innovation and problem-solving.
- Servant Leadership: Adopting a "servant" attitude means prioritizing the needs of employees and empowering them to succeed, which ultimately contributes to the organization's success.
By cultivating these skills, future leaders will be well-equipped to navigate complexities, drive organizational success, and support the growth of their teams.
Is there anything in particular that you would still like to achieve in your career or what is the next step on your journey?
Yes, one of my aspirations is to leverage technology to support organizations focused on spreading the Gospel and making a positive impact on underprivileged communities. I believe that technology can be a powerful tool for outreach, enabling organizations to connect with and support those in need more effectively.
I envision developing digital platforms that facilitate community engagement, provide access to resources, and share inspirational messages and teachings. This could include mobile apps for spiritual growth, online resources for education and vocational training, or platforms that connect volunteers with service opportunities.
By harnessing technology in this way, I hope to help organizations reach wider audiences, foster connections, and create meaningful change in the lives of individuals and communities. Ultimately, my goal is to contribute to a mission that uplifts others while spreading the values of compassion and hope.
What advice would you give to aspiring technology leaders who are just starting their careers?
To technology leaders just starting their careers, here is some advice I could offer:
- Cultivate a Growth Mindset: Embrace continuous learning and stay curious. The tech landscape evolves rapidly, so being adaptable and open to new ideas is crucial.
- Build a Strong Foundation: Focus on developing both technical skills and business acumen. Understanding how technology aligns with business goals will enhance your effectiveness as a leader.
- Seek Diverse Experiences: Gain exposure to different roles and disciplines within technology. This will help you build a holistic understanding of the field and prepare you for cross-functional collaboration.
- Network and Build Relationships: Connect with mentors and peers in the industry. Building a strong professional network can provide guidance, support, and opportunities for growth.
- Develop Soft Skills: Communication, emotional intelligence, and teamwork are essential. Being able to articulate your ideas clearly and collaborate effectively will set you apart.
- Embrace Challenges: Don’t shy away from difficult projects or situations. Taking on challenges will help you grow and demonstrate your capability as a leader.
- Focus on Impact: Always consider how your work contributes to the larger mission of your organization. Strive to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others through technology.
- Lead by Example: Demonstrate integrity, accountability, and a servant leadership mindset. Inspire others through your actions and commitment to the team’s success.
- Don’t be afraid to fail: every failure is an opportunity to learn and grow. View challenges as opportunities to success and remember that each failure is an opportunity to learn. It’s through taking risks that you’ll discover and expand your impact on others.
"Embrace continuous learning and stay curious."
What role do you see emerging technologies (e.g., AI, machine learning, blockchain) playing in your industry, and how are you preparing for them?
Emerging technologies like AI, machine learning, and blockchain are set to play transformative roles in our industry. Here’s how I see them impacting the landscape and how I’m preparing for their integration:
- AI and Machine Learning: These technologies will enhance decision-making processes by enabling data-driven insights, automating routine tasks, and improving customer experiences. Make sure you invest time in understanding machine learning algorithms and their applications, and explore partnerships with AI-focused firms to stay ahead of the curve. This is an area of great opportunity, but one that should be approached with caution.
- IoT (Internet of Things): The exponential advancement of IoT devices will provide real-time data and improve operational efficiency. I’m looking into IoT solutions that can optimize processes within our organization, ensuring we leverage this data effectively.
- Cybersecurity: As these technologies evolve, so do the associated security risks. I’m prioritizing cybersecurity my organization and seek to invest in robust security measures to protect our systems and data. Our data is one of our greatest assets.
To take full advantage of these technologies, I’m creating a culture of innovation within my team, encouraging experimentation and open dialogue about new trends. By staying informed and proactive, I aim to position our organization to harness the full potential of these emerging technologies.
A big thank you to Scott Morgan from the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery for sharing his journey to date.
If you would like to gain more perspective from Tech Leaders and CIOs you can read some of our other interviews here.
