In those days corporate research and development laboratories were not really thought of as integral components of an operating company. The charter of the laboratory was in many cases to do good science, publish papers and perhaps discover something that could be translated into a futuristic new product or process.

The CTO role has changed from running the laboratories to advising the CEO on all issues relating to technology. In fact, while the breakdown varies from company to company, in many cases approximately ten percent of the CTO's time involves the line responsibilities associated with supervising the company's technical organizations, and the other 90 percent concerns all technical issues relating to "are we getting the bite for our buck" with regard to technology.

The number one characteristic that companies are looking for in a CTO is leadership ability. A leader is generally an individual who can define a direction, facilitate change, inspire teamwork and make decisions quickly. He/she usually has a take-charge personality with a strong work ethic.

The modern day CTO should also have strong academic credentials, a broad interdisciplinary background and a solid record of technical accomplishments early in his/her career. This could be evidenced by publications and/or patents but more commonly is associated with success in commercialization of new products or processes.

More and more we see requirements for CTOs with experience in operations and/or general management somewhere earlier in their careers. Being able to understand the perspective of the operating management of a strategic business unit is considered a major advantage. In addition, as companies become more global some international experience, particularly in Asia, is becoming a valuable asset.

Since the CTO serves as the technology advisor to the CEO, he/she most likely will become involved with acquisitions, strategic partnerships, joint ventures and other industrial, government or academic alliances. Experience in this arena is also desirable. The CTO at many companies has become a senior member of the management team, and should also have the attributes sought for general management. These include a strategic/conceptual orientation, excellent verbal and written communication skills, sound judgment, high energy, flexibility, motivational and empowerment skills, and total dedication.

This is a summary of the "wish list" for today's most desirable and impactful CTOs:

· Strong leadership characteristics
· A broad interdisciplinary, technical background
· Operations, marketing and/or general management experience
· An international assignment
· A strategic/conceptual orientation
· Experience evaluating and negotiating partnerships, joint ventures, acquisitions
· Superior communication skills
· A persuasive personality