Hot tech leadership roles to have in 2024

Wondering what the most sought-after leadership roles are in tech right now? We’ve spoken to industry experts, scoured the data, and found four roles worth keeping in mind.

1. Chief AI Officer (CAIO)

If you’ve been keeping an eye on tech news over the last two years, you’re likely not surprised to see an AI role at the top of this list. Outside of commanding high individual contributor salaries, companies are seeking AI leaders to help them implement new technologies. At the forefront is the new CAIO role, which topped our recent list of highest paying tech C-suite positions.

Compensation packages for CAIO roles can reach well above $1 million, according to Forbes research. On top of this, there has been a 13% rise in organizations creating AI executive leadership roles since December 2022.

2. All cybersecurity management positions

With the rise of AI naturally comes an increased demand for defenders to protect against machine-empowered bad actors. By 2026, 70% of boards will include one member with cybersecurity expertise, according to Garner research. From being a team leader to the oft-coveted CISO role, cybersecurity leaders—including tech leaders with cybersecurity experience—are in high demand. 

Here at Pluralsight, we had the privilege of talking to seasoned CISO Larry Trittschuh, who has a treasure trove of advice for anyone interested in getting into cybersecurity leadership.

“For a lot of people, you’ve got to work that network of peers, friends, and recruiters,” Larry said. “Sometimes you get to a position and it’s about seizing opportunities laterally outside of what people think is the expected route of progression, just so you grow from the experience.”

You can read more about Larry’s story and his advice in this article: “From Air Force pilot to CISO: How this security leader landed the top job.”

3. IT management

Want to know what the fourth and fifth best paying executive roles in tech are? It’s being a VP of Information Technology or an IT Director. IT Ops is still foundational for most companies.

According to Pluralsight's Senior Director of IT, Rick Fielding, having soft skills are vital to success in securing and doing well in IT management.

“Your main responsibilities will be to support your company and the people you lead, so people will be looking at you from two directions,” Rick said. “From above, your manager will be leaning on you to ensure the services your IT team provides are meeting business needs.From below, those you’re leading will be looking for direction on how to do that, as well as how to develop their skills and careers.”

You can read more about Rick’s story and his advice in this article: “How to become an IT manager: Career advice, tips, and tricks.”

4. Software engineering manager

According to Stack Overflow’s latest research, Software Engineering Managers command nearly $200k USD in the United States, and $115k worldwide. It’s also one of the few fields of tech leadership where you’ll sometimes get to keep hands-on even as you lead a team, particularly in smaller companies.

According to Keerthi Nidadavolu, Senior Engineering Manager at Pluralsight, being a leader in software development has a greater focus having both technical and soft skills.

“On the technical side, it's important to understand software development principles, system architecture, and have experience with at least one programming language. This helps you provide technical oversight when needed. You don’t need to be an expert— providing guidance while trusting your team to make the best decisions is key,” Keerthi said.

“Interpersonal skills are just as important. Clear communication, good decision-making, conflict resolution, and empathy help maintain strong relationships with your team, stakeholders, and other departments. These traits ensure everyone stays aligned and collaborates effectively.

You can read more about Keerthi’s story and her advice in this article: “How to become a software engineering manager.”

Conclusion

In 2024, the landscape of tech leadership is evolving rapidly, with AI and cybersecurity taking the fore, and IT and software development more important than ever. However, just because the jobs above are the current in-demand thing, keep in mind that doesn’t necessarily mean these are a fit for everyone. While interviewing for this article, Larry Trittschuh shared some wise words on why we shouldn’t see career as a ladder, even if we’re taught to think that way.

“The truth is, success isn’t a ladder—think of it as a menu. You’ve got to pick the item that appeals to you and personalize your success,” Larry said. “For you, success might mean a high wage, a great title, loving the company or person you work for, spending lots of time with your family, or enjoying a low-stress job. After all, it would be absurd to suggest one meal suits everyone’s tastes.”

So, look at this list, and do your research. Find out if these roles sound like a good fit for you. If that’s the case, there’s never been a better time to upskill and pursue them.