The IT industry is always changing. Technology evolves, security risks grow, and companies need better operations management methods. Many professionals start in technical roles but later step into management to improve how teams work.
Moving into a leadership role in IT takes more than technical skills—it requires problem-solving, planning, and the ability to lead others.
John Leitgeb's career shows how a strong technical background can lead to leadership. He started in aerospace before moving into IT, where he has spent 27 years managing operations. Currently, he is the IT Director at Kingston Technology. His leadership has helped the company scale, improve security, and build a stronger IT structure.
This article explores what it takes to grow into an IT leadership role. You'll learn how taking initiative, solving problems, and setting high standards can open new opportunities. We'll also discuss career paths, the growing importance of cybersecurity, and how understanding business decisions can set you apart.
How a Tech Background Leads to a Leadership Role in IT
The love for technology can lead to a leadership role in IT. Many people start in technical jobs but later move into management to create better work environments.
From Aerospace to IT Management
John Leitgeb's career began in aerospace during the 1980s. He was strongly interested in electronics and owned early computers like the Commodore 64 and VIC-20. Technology excited him, and he wanted to be part of its growth.
Later, he joined an IT company, first managing customer service and tech support. This experience helped him develop leadership skills.
Over time, he took on more responsibility and became head of IT operations. Instead of working directly with technology, he focused on managing teams and improving systems.
Why Transition from Tech to a Leadership Role in IT
Many workplaces make it hard for technical experts to do their best work. Poor management and outdated systems slow progress. Instead of accepting these challenges, stepping into leadership allows someone to fix them.
By moving into management, he could:
Remove obstacles that make work harder.
Create a better environment for tech professionals.
Improve teamwork and decision-making.
Leading with Purpose
Good leaders never stop improving things. Some grow comfortable, but strong leaders keep pushing for better systems. The key is to stay involved, listen to teams, and create a workplace where people succeed.
How to Advance into a Leadership Role in IT
Many IT professionals feel stuck. They want to change, but bad leadership or outdated systems hold them back. However, taking initiative and setting high standards can open doors to leadership.
Take the initiative and Show Leadership
The best way to get noticed is by solving problems without waiting for permission. A great example is fixing a messy, unorganized workspace. Instead of working in chaos, create a clean and structured area.
People will notice the difference. When others see a better way of working, they often follow. By taking charge and offering to manage improvements, you show leadership.
Simple Ways to Make an Impact:
Find a problem and take responsibility for fixing it.
Set clear rules and follow them consistently.
Show how small changes improve work and efficiency.
Stay firm, even if some resist at first.
Building a Reputation for a Leadership Role in IT
Not everyone likes change, but strong leaders set standards and stick to them. Over time, even skeptics appreciate a better work environment.
Managers promote people who take action, not those who just complain. When you solve problems and improve things, opportunities open up. Leadership comes from stepping up, not waiting to be asked.
Passion and Effort Make a Difference
Many people do the bare minimum to keep their jobs. But those who put in extra effort stand out. Good managers notice people who care about their work. When you take charge and keep improving, you naturally move into leadership.
Choosing the Best IT Career Path for a Leadership Role in IT
Choosing a career in IT can feel overwhelming. There are many paths, and technology keeps changing. Some jobs are fading, while others are growing fast. If you want stability and long-term growth, it's important to choose wisely.
Three Main IT Career Paths
IT careers fall into three major areas. Each has its challenges and opportunities.
1. Compliance and Legal Regulations
Every country has rules about data privacy and cybersecurity. This field focuses on following those rules, preventing legal risks, and keeping data safe. It's a great fit for people who enjoy research and policy work.
2. Software Development
Developers will always be in demand. Companies need software for business operations, automation, and integrations. If you enjoy coding and problem-solving, this path offers steady opportunities.
3. IT Operations and Security
Traditional IT jobs like network management are shrinking. More companies now use cloud services instead of in-house servers. However, security roles are growing quickly because businesses must protect their data.
Why Cybersecurity is Key to a Leadership Role in IT
Security is now the biggest priority in IT. Businesses spend more money on protecting their systems than on anything else. Hackers keep finding new ways to attack, so companies need security experts to stay ahead.
Cybersecurity jobs include:
Protecting networks, software, and cloud systems.
Preventing cyber threats and managing risks.
Keeping business and customer data safe.
Even the military struggles to find enough cybersecurity experts. At tech events, most discussions focus on security instead of traditional IT. Investment in security keeps growing, making it the safest career choice.
The Future of IT Jobs
Many businesses now use cloud services instead of hiring large IT teams. However, security roles keep expanding because cyber threats never stop. If you want a stable and rewarding career, cybersecurity is the way.
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Key Lessons for Success in a Leadership Role in IT
Experience teaches valuable lessons. Some things you learn early, while others take years to understand. In IT, success isn't just about technical skills. Thinking ahead and understanding the business side can make a big difference.
Look Beyond Immediate Problems
Many IT professionals spend their time fixing daily issues. While that's important, long-term success requires planning. Instead of just solving problems as they come, ask:
Where is technology headed?
How can today's choices make things easier in the future?
What will this system need in five years?
People who plan to become leaders. They don't just react to problems—they prevent them.
Get Involved in Procurement and Business Decisions
One of the most overlooked IT skills is handling purchases. Many companies let finance teams pick vendors, but IT professionals should stay involved. The wrong choices can create more problems down the road.
How To Make Better Decisions:
Control vendor selection – IT should choose the best tools, not just accept what finance picks.
Negotiate deals – Many prices are flexible. Asking for a discount or better terms often works.
Justify spending – IT doesn't generate revenue, so budgets face scrutiny. Explaining why investments matter helps secure resources.
Smart Financial Decisions in a Leadership Role in IT
Some IT professionals don't focus on costs because it's not their money. But smart spending leads to better results. Small savings in contracts or better negotiations can fund new projects or extra hires.
Success in IT isn't just about fixing things. Planning, managing costs, and understanding business decisions set professionals apart.
Conclusion
Growing into a leadership role in IT takes more than technical skills. It requires problem-solving, smart decision-making, and improving work environments. Strong leaders don't just do their jobs and find ways to improve things for everyone. Taking the initiative is key.
Those who step up, fix problems, and set high standards get noticed. Managers promote people who take action, not those who wait for change. Improving processes, managing costs, and understanding business decisions also help build trust and open doors to leadership.
Cybersecurity is becoming one of the most stable career paths in IT. Businesses spend more money protecting their data than ever before. Professionals focusing on security will have strong job opportunities for years.
Success in IT comes from thinking ahead, staying involved, and making smart choices. Those who plan for the future and lead by example create lasting careers and make a real impact.
FAQs
What are the biggest challenges in a leadership role in IT?
IT leaders face challenges like managing budgets, handling security threats, and keeping up with fast-changing technology.
What soft skills are essential for a leadership role in IT?
Strong communication, problem-solving, decision-making, and team management skills are key to IT leadership success.
How can someone in IT transition from a technical role to a leadership role in IT?
Taking initiative, solving problems, mentoring others, and understanding business needs can help professionals move into leadership.
Is a degree necessary for a leadership role in IT?
While a degree helps, experience, leadership ability, and problem-solving skills matter more in IT management roles.
How important is cybersecurity knowledge for a leadership role in IT?
Cybersecurity is crucial as IT leaders must ensure data protection, risk management, and compliance with security standards.
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