As business evolves, the role of the CIO is evolving with it - they are expected to not only deliver reliable IT operations on time and on budget, but also to lead IT departments that can make a difference by delivering solutions that contribute to business strategies. Ajay Kumar Dhir's plenary address will examine some of the challenges (merger of software companies, recruitment and retention of skilled staff, virtualisation, unified communications...) and opportunities he is facing. He will also discuss what is shaping his role and driving his agenda in 2009 and beyond: is it innovation, integration, information or irritation?