IT’s role in leadership isn’t optional, it’s essential

Technology is no longer just a support function. It’s a strategic asset.

From fundraising platforms and CRM tools to compliance, privacy, and cybersecurity: technology now intersects with nearly every part of non-profit operations. Yet in many organizations, IT is left out of leadership conversations.

That gap isn’t just a missed opportunity. It’s a growing source of risk.

If you’re making decisions that impact people, programs, or reputation, someone needs to represent technology at the table. Here’s why it matters.

IT impacts every strategic decision

Whether you’re launching a new program, evaluating vendors, or applying for funding, technology plays a role. When IT isn’t looped in early, decisions often need to be redone – leading to delays, budget strain, or worse, security oversights.

Cyber risk is rising, and funders are paying attention

Non-profits are increasingly targeted by cybercriminals. Globally, they account for nearly one-third of nation-state cyberattack notifications, second only to governments.

In Canada, nearly half of all organizations reported experiencing a cyberattack in 2023. Over a quarter faced ransomware attacks, with many spending more than $25K on recovery.

At the same time, few non-profits feel prepared. A 2023 report found fewer than 20% of Canadian charities felt “very confident” in their cybersecurity practices.

Funders, insurers, and regulators are beginning to scrutinize how you manage digital risk – not just what programs you run.

A seat at the table drives alignment

A vCIO or vCISO can help translate technical frameworks (like CRA guidance, PCI-DSS, or CyberSecure Canada) into actionable strategy. They provide critical insight into how tools, platforms, and dependencies impact your operations.

[Learn more about Canada’s national certification for cybersecurity readiness.]

When technologists are included in leadership, teams move faster, adapt to change more easily, and make smarter investments.

Technology brings a vital lens to leadership

As Edward de Bono’s Six Thinking Hats model reminds us, effective leadership includes diverse perspectives. Technology leaders ask the right “what ifs” before small issues escalate into major risks.

An IT seat at the table isn’t about tools. It’s about foresight, accountability, and cross-functional alignment.

What we do differently at Third Octet

We’re not just here to patch laptops. We embed technology into your leadership team through our vCIO/vCISO services, supporting:

• Budget planning
• Vendor evaluations
• Security posture reviews
• Program roadmapping with tech in mind
• Board reporting and digital governance

This isn’t an upsell. It’s how non-profits build resilience, credibility, and impact.

Common outcomes: With vs. without IT in leadership

Real-world examples

(Anonymized, real clients)

• A mid-sized non-profit skipped endpoint security budgeting, assuming it was “just IT’s responsibility.” A ransomware attack changed that view.
• Another nearly breached privacy laws due to how their CRM handled donor data. Their vCIO flagged the issue before it became a liability.

Don’t treat IT as overhead. Treat it as infrastructure for impact.

You wouldn’t make major financial decisions without a CFO. The same applies to technology.

When non-profits bring IT into leadership conversations, we’ve seen them:

• Reduce cyber insurance premiums
• Unlock funding tied to digital maturity
• Avoid compliance pitfalls
• Accelerate digital transformation

Want to explore what that could look like for your organization? Start the conversation or learn more about Managed IT Services .