We talk about Formula One being very advanced, but ultimately the challenges are the same.
The world of technology leadership is changing faster than ever—and there is no going back. At CIO Nordic and Cyber Security Executive 2026, Gary Foote brought insights from one of the most demanding environments in the world: Formula One.
Behind the speed and spectacle lies a reality that every CIO can recognize—relentless pressure, real-time decision-making, and zero tolerance for failure. The lesson is clear: the gap between elite performance environments and enterprise IT is smaller than we think.
The same challenges — just at a different speed
Formula One may seem like a different universe, but at its core, it operates like a highly advanced manufacturing business.
Cybersecurity, AI adoption, and data strategy are not unique challenges—they are shared across industries. What differs is the pace and visibility.
In Formula One, decisions are made in milliseconds, and failures are exposed on a global stage. In enterprise environments, the stakes are rising toward the same direction. Technology is no longer a support function — it is a direct driver of business outcomes.
CIO and CISO: from hierarchy to partnership
As cyber threats evolve and AI reshapes both defense and attack capabilities, the relationship between CIOs and CISOs is undergoing a fundamental shift.
Instead of operating in silos—or within rigid reporting structures—these roles must function as equal partners.
The CIO builds the technological foundation.
The CISO ensures resilience across it.
Together, they are responsible for two parallel priorities:
- securing the organisation as much as possible
- preparing for when disruption inevitably happens
This dual responsibility is what defines modern technology leadership.
The rise of the strategic CIO
The most successful CIOs of the next decade will be those who step beyond technology and into business leadership.
We are already seeing CIOs move closer to the CEO and the boardroom, as organisations recognize the strategic impact of technology decisions. In a landscape shaped by AI, data, and digital ecosystems, CIOs are no longer enablers—they are value creators.
Those who can connect technology to measurable business impact will stand out.
CIO NORDIC 2026 KEYNOTE
CIO | GM PERFORMANCE POWER UNITS | BCS FELLOW | 5 × CIO 100 HONOUREE (UK)