In 2025, IT leaders are transitioning from reactive problem solvers to proactive advocates of strategic innovation, according to a report analyzing their evolving role. This shift emphasizes long-term planning and collaboration across business units, driven by priorities such as sustainability, AI adoption, and optimizing hybrid/remote work environments. The analysis highlights a significant transformation in IT decision-makers’ (ITDMs) responsibilities, supported by data indicating increased focus on strategic initiatives. For instance, while only 19% of ITDMs prioritized IT strategy in 2019, this figure rose to 46% by 2025. Automation has also gained prominence, streamlining operational tasks to free resources for higher-value projects, with 51% of ITDMs viewing it as a catalyst for strategic focus. Flexible working remains a key challenge, with 98% of ITDMs prioritizing improvements in hybrid work infrastructure. However, efforts have shifted from basic connectivity ("keeping the lights on") to enhancing collaboration and productivity through integrated office systems, as noted by 47% of respondents. Security concerns have intensified alongside flexible work models, making it a top challenge for IT leaders, with 45% identifying it as a critical investment area for 2025. Strategic priorities for 2025 are shaped by recent trends, with AI adoption emerging as a central focus. Over two-thirds of ITDMs anticipate AI becoming their top investment priority, a rise from 55% in 2019. Sustainability is also gaining traction, with 38% of ITDMs expecting energy-efficient technology to be a key area of focus. Additionally, automation is expected to improve issue resolution for employees (50% of ITDMs) and further enable strategic work. The report underscores IT leaders' growing influence on business productivity and growth, as 68% express excitement about their evolving roles. This proactive approach allows them to address challenges with forward-thinking solutions rather than reactive measures. The findings, derived from the Canon Europe IT Transformation Barometer Report (2024), reflect a consensus among ITDMs on the necessity of aligning technology initiatives with broader organizational goals. As IT functions adapt to a digital-first landscape, their role is redefined to emphasize leadership in innovation, strategic impact, and operational resilience. The report concludes that IT’s proactive engagement in shaping business outcomes will redefine expectations of its contributions to enterprise success. (Word count: 299)