Technology Leadership

What Is a Chief Digital Officer? And Do You Need One or a CIO?

The CDO vs CIO decision: when digital transformation needs a dedicated leader, and when a CIO is enough.

Common Misconceptions

The most common misconceptions about this role:

Digital transformation is stalling.
Nobody owns the digital agenda.
You’re not sure whether to hire a CDO or expand the CIO remit.

Our Methodology

CDO vs CIO Decision Framework: 5 questions, digital revenue share, transformation maturity, existing IT leadership, board mandate, budget. Plus: Chief Digital Officer responsibilities mapped to business outcomes.

What Starkhorn Brings

Fortium ranks for digital officer terms. Starkhorn positions as the combined CIO/CDO practitioner.

Starkhorn does not subcontract or use associate networks. You work directly with Daniel Jacobs from the first conversation through to delivery.

Who This Is For

This service is designed for:

Traditional businesses (retail
professional services
manufacturing) undergoing digitisation

This is not the right fit for: Pure-play digital businesses that already have strong digital leadership.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Chief Digital Officer?

A Chief Digital Officer is a senior technology or security leader responsible for strategy, governance, and delivery within an organisation. They set direction, manage risk, and ensure technology serves business objectives. In smaller or PE-backed businesses this role is often filled on a fractional or interim basis rather than as a full-time appointment.

What does a typical Starkhorn engagement cost?

Engagements are structured as monthly retainers or fixed-term day-rate assignments. The cost depends on scope and time commitment. We are transparent about pricing from the first conversation and will give you a clear indication on the call.

What experience does Starkhorn bring?

Starkhorn is led by Daniel Jacobs, with 20+ years in technology and security, 15+ of them in leadership roles. He has served as Interim Group Technology Director at VetPartners (BC Partners-backed, GBP1.2bn), accountable for both technology and security, and as CIO and CISO at Jardine Motors Group (GBP2bn turnover). He holds PRINCE2, ITIL Foundation, and is a Full Member of the Institute of Interim Management.

Does Starkhorn work with businesses outside London?

Yes. We work with clients nationally and, for some engagements, internationally. Much of our advisory work is delivered remotely, with on-site presence when needed. Location has not been a barrier for any of our clients.

What is the first step to working with Starkhorn?

Book a no-obligation conversation using the link on this page. In 30 minutes we will understand your situation, tell you honestly whether we are the right fit, and outline what a first engagement would look like. There is no sales process and no pressure.

Next step

Talk to a Senior Technology Leader

Starkhorn provides fractional CIO, CISO, and interim technology leadership for growing businesses. If you would like to understand whether this kind of support makes sense for your situation, book a no-obligation conversation.

Book a Conversation