Interim chief technology officer

Interim CTO (2/3 days per week)

6mth FTC @ Non profit organisation

Hybrid/office(London)/Fully Remote


My client is looking for an experienced Chief Technology Officer (CTO) to take on an interim, fractional leadership role within a purpose-led organisation preparing for its next stage of digital and operational maturity. This is a pivotal role focused on setting direction, strengthening governance, and building a scalable, secure, and resilient technology function that can stand the test of time once the engagement concludes.


🌐 Role Purpose

The CTO will provide senior executive leadership across all areas of technology, ensuring that digital platforms, data, infrastructure, and IT operations are secure, compliant, resilient, and fully aligned to strategic organisational objectives. You will define the technology vision, establish strong architectural and governance foundations, and ensure delivery through both internal teams and external partners—balancing innovation with risk, cost, and sustainability. A key outcome of this role is to leave behind a clear strategic technology roadmap, robust standards, and a strengthened internal IT capability.


🔑 Key Areas of Responsibility

Technology Strategy & Architecture

* Define and own the organisation-wide technology strategy and roadmap
* Translate business priorities into scalable target architectures (apps, data, cloud, integrations, security)
* Set architectural principles, standards, and best practices
* Provide executive oversight of digital platforms, data systems, and cloud/SaaS environments
* Evaluate emerging technologies and advise on strategic investment decisions

IT Governance, Compliance & Risk

* Establish a comprehensive IT governance and compliance framework
* Own the organisation’s information security strategy, ensuring robust protection of systems, data, and digital assets
* Ensure strong controls across cyber security, data protection, privacy, and access management
* Own data governance standards including quality, ownership, ethics, and security
* Provide board-level assurance on technology risk and compliance
* Lead audit responses and manage third-party compliance obligations

Service Delivery & Support

* Ensure reliable, high-performing technology services for staff and stakeholders
* Define service standards across internal and outsourced support functions
* Oversee system performance, availability, and user experience
* Lead and develop internal technology and data capability
* Manage senior supplier relationships and performance

Resilience, Disaster Recovery & Continuity

* Design and oversee business continuity and disaster recovery strategies
* Define and maintain resilience standards aligned to organisational risk appetite
* Ensure effective backup, recovery, and incident response frameworks
* Lead major incident response and post-incident learning
* Continuously strengthen organisational resilience posture

💡 Experience Required

* Proven senior technology leadership experience at CTO / equivalent level
* Strong background in complex SME ideally within not for profit, education, membership body industries
* Deep expertise in Microsoft Azure and cloud environments
* Strong track record in enterprise architecture, technology strategy, and governance
* Experience managing outsourced IT and infrastructure partners
* Strong understanding of cyber security, data governance, and regulatory compliance
* Confident operating at executive and board level

🧠 Personal Attributes

* Strategic, commercially aware, and outcomes-driven
* Calm, credible, and influential at senior leadership level
* Comfortable balancing innovation with governance and risk
* Pragmatic, decisive, and resilient under pressure
* Able to translate complex technical issues into clear business language