The Perks of Being a Digital Leader

Sep 3

Ah, the glamorous life of a digital leader! The envy of all, right? Let’s break down some of the "perks" that come with the territory—if only they were as effortless as they sound.

No Training Required

Imagine being a digital leader who’s born with all the tech knowledge you could ever need—AI, blockchain, cybersecurity, you name it. No late-night studying or keeping up with certifications. Sounds like a dream, right? However, the 2023 Nash Squared Digital Leadership Report tells a different story. It shows that 72% of digital leaders consider themselves "creators" of technology, meaning they’re constantly learning and adapting to stay ahead. This relentless need for self-improvement is what keeps them effective in a rapidly evolving digital landscape, shattering the myth that digital leaders have it all figured out from day one.

Unlimited Budgets for Experiments

Wouldn’t it be amazing if every brilliant idea could be funded without a second thought? Need to test a new AI-driven platform? No problem—the budget’s bottomless! But in the real world, digital leaders know this isn’t the case. The 2023 Nash Squared report highlights that while 45% of digital leaders expect a budget increase in the next year, this growth is often a return to "normal" levels after pandemic-induced hypergrowth. Similarly, the 2023 Valtech report for manufacturing reveals that 47% of manufacturers increased their digital investment budgets by up to 20%, but these funds are closely managed. Securing budget approval is often a strategic negotiation, requiring a clear demonstration of ROI and alignment with business objectives.

No One Questions Your Vision

In the ideal scenario, every innovative idea you propose is met with unanimous approval. “Let’s pivot to a completely new tech stack? Absolutely, go ahead!” However, the reality, as highlighted in the Valtech report, is much more nuanced. With only 3% of manufacturers considering themselves true digital market leaders, it’s evident that digital leaders face significant challenges in getting organizational buy-in for their vision. The Nash Squared report adds that while 71% of digital leaders now have a seat on the executive committee, they still must navigate complex organizational dynamics to secure the necessary support for their initiatives. This involves not just selling the vision, but also demonstrating its strategic value and managing stakeholder expectations.

Instant Recognition for Every Success

Imagine rolling out a new initiative and immediately being hailed as a hero. Every success is recognized, and the accolades pour in. If only it were that simple! The Nash Squared report shows that while digital leaders are increasingly gaining influence—71% now sit on their company’s executive committee—this doesn’t automatically translate to instant recognition. In fact, successes are often quietly integrated into ongoing operations, while failures draw more attention. According to the Valtech report, 63% of manufacturers admit their digital maturity is only on par with competitors, which means that even when digital leaders deliver results, these achievements might not always be celebrated as they deserve. Recognition in this field is often hard-earned and requires continuous effort to ensure that successes are acknowledged.

So, while the perks of being a digital leader might sound glamorous at first glance, they come with a hefty dose of reality. The journey is one of continuous learning, strategic negotiation, political navigation, and often, quiet perseverance. Both the Nash Squared and Valtech reports paint a picture of digital leadership that’s challenging but ultimately rewarding for those who are up to the task.