The path to digital C-suite is not a straight line. The technical credibility that makes someone an excellent Head of Digital or VP of Technology is necessary but not sufficient for the step to CDO, CPO, or CTO. The transition requires a different kind of capability: boardroom presence, commercial fluency, the ability to lead through ambiguity at scale, and the judgement to know when to push and when to hold.

Many talented digital leaders get stuck at the wrong moment — not because they lack ability, but because they have not had access to the kind of senior, experienced perspective that helps them see their own blind spots and navigate the specific challenges of operating at the top.

This service is built for them.

What this looks like in practice

•       One-to-one executive development for senior digital, technology, product, and marketing leaders — structured around the specific challenges and goals of the individual

•       Preparation for C-suite transition — including boardroom readiness, ExCo influence, and the leadership shifts required at the most senior level

•       Navigating complex organisational situations — difficult stakeholders, political dynamics, major programme pressure, or leadership team friction

•       Career strategy and positioning — thinking through the next move, the right moment, and how to be ready for it

•       Ongoing trusted counsel — a senior, experienced voice available between the formal sessions, for the decisions that cannot wait 

What we bring

Ian Hood has led, developed, and promoted digital talent across some of the world's most demanding organisations for 20 years. He has built teams from scratch, inherited teams in difficulty, promoted high-performers into their first senior leadership roles, and navigated the challenges of leading in highly political, highly regulated, high-stakes environments.

He is not a professional coach. He is a senior executive who has done the job — and who brings the perspective, candour, and network that comes from that.

This service is right for you if

•       You are a senior digital, technology, product, or marketing leader preparing for C-suite or a significant step up in scope and seniority

•       You are navigating a particularly complex period — a major programme, a difficult organisational environment, or a significant career decision

•       You want access to an experienced senior executive who will be direct with you, not just supportive

•       You are a CDO or equivalent who wants a peer-level sounding board with no agenda other than your success 

A note on format

Engagements are typically structured as monthly one-to-one sessions over a minimum three-month period, with access between sessions by phone or message for time-sensitive questions. All conversations are entirely confidential. Engagements can be extended beyond the initial term by mutual agreement.