"When it comes to innovation, isolation is our strength. Even in this day of global interconnectedness, we need to recognise that this is in our DNA." - Ian Taylor, CEO, Animation Research Limited

The New Zealand CIO Awards 2018 took place in Auckland on the first night of the 12th annual CIO Summit. The theme of the Summit itself was tackling the impending cultural shifts looming for IT teams across the country. Discussions dealt with how we can use data and emerging technologies to provide opportunities for growth and innovation as digital transformation becomes integral for organisational strategy, and cyber security challenges become the new battleground. The competitive advantage that the human element gives us can no longer be overlooked, and this year the audience was challenged to cultivate and grow the best teams possible.

The 'Outstanding Contribution to Technology and Business Award' is given to a high profile business person from a public or private company whose contribution has significantly and uniquely impacted the greater New Zealand or global business community in an information technology sense over the course of his or her career. The recipient of the Award this year was our own Ian Taylor, a man whose 'human element' is the singular driving force behind the success of Animation Research Limited and it's sports division Virtual Eye. Ian leads by vision and enthusiasm, in tandem with his ability to pass both on to those around him.