The role of an IT leader is ever evolving as organisations face increasing pressure to strengthen security, harness data more effectively, and integrate emerging technologies. With digital transformation accelerating, businesses must prioritise the right initiatives to remain competitive and resilient. However, with limited resources and growing demands, IT decision makers must carefully assess where to focus their efforts.
Our IT Leaders Trends report 2025 shows that of the top three priorities for IT leaders in the year ahead, number one is enhancing cybersecurity measures – for 52% of respondents. Cybersecurity is a growing challenge for all organisations, and a central responsibility for IT leaders who must take charge of developing and maintaining an ever-evolving IT security policy.
The second priority for 50% of IT leaders is improving data management and analytics, which are crucial for effective strategic activities. Data is a valuable resource, but it cannot deliver its full potential if it is not managed or analysed effectively, and then used for real data-driven insights and actions.
The next priorities on the list are integrating innovative technologies such as AI and Internet of Things (IoT), 45%, followed by infrastructure modernisation and upgrading legacy systems, for 43% of IT leaders. Achieving both of these can help IT leaders enhance their security measures and achieve their first priority to improve cybersecurity. AI is already being used successfully to search large datasets for anomalies that can indicate fraud and patterns of other risk-related activity, while providers of modern cloud-based systems are continually investing to ensure ever greater cybersecurity.
Just under four in ten (37%) want to prioritise more innovation with their software or platform, which may be lower than we might expect for a function that is so closely aligned with innovation. Perhaps IT leaders already have their hands full bringing their technology and teams up to speed with some of the latest innovations, including AI in the workplace, so are less focused on seeking out further innovation, at least for now.
With 18% of IT leaders now planning to prioritise reducing IT spend in the coming year, it’s clear that cost efficiency remains a key focus amidst tightening budgets. This approach often stems from the need to balance financial constraints with the growing demand for innovative technology solutions. One way that organisations are addressing this challenge is by outsourcing to a Managed Service Provider (MSP). Partnering with an MSP allows businesses to streamline their IT operations, eliminate unnecessary overheads, and access expert support without the expense of maintaining large in-house teams.
What’s next?
To navigate these challenges, IT leaders must take a proactive approach, enhancing security, optimising data management and embracing innovation while ensuring cost efficiency. With careful planning and the right strategic partnerships, businesses can future proof their IT operations and drive long-term success.
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