Felix Schumann, Michael Döring

• Driven by the adoption of novel technologies, digital transformation has turned into a strategic priority for many firms. In response, the recently introduced role of the Chief Digital Officer (CDO) however, causes dissension regarding its delineation from the Chief Information Officer (CIO). Hence, the present study employs a systematic literature review and analysis to investigate how the tasks and responsibilities, requirements and skills, and the role types of the CDO and CIO differ in the context of digital transformation. A detailed examination of their duties reveals that the CDO focuses almost exclusively on demand-side activities, whereas the CIO is in charge of information systems (IS) supply-side and demand-side tasks. The intersection with the role of the CDO increases as the CIO’s demand-side focus grows. The implications of this study are summarized in a first guideline that supports firms that employ a CIO and consider the appointment of a CDO.