Chief Information Officer (Mid-Level) Interview Preparation Guide - FAANG Standards
Chief Information Officer (CIO)
Mid Level
8 rounds
Updated 2/22/2026
FAANG companies typically conduct 7-9 rounds for mid-level IT leadership positions, combining recruiter screening, technical assessments, operational deep-dives, strategic evaluations, security and compliance reviews, behavioral and leadership assessments, real-world case studies, and executive bar raiser rounds. Each round evaluates specific competencies aligned with the role's responsibilities in IT strategy, infrastructure, security, governance, and team leadership. The interview process typically spans 4-6 weeks from initial contact to offer.
Interview Rounds
1
Recruiter Screen
45 min3 focus topicsbehavioral
2
Technical Phone Screen with IT Operations Leader
60 min4 focus topicstechnical
3
Onsite: IT Operations and Infrastructure Deep Dive
90 min4 focus topicstechnical
4
Onsite: IT Strategy, Digital Transformation, and Business Alignment
90 min4 focus topicscase study
5
Onsite: Security, Compliance, and Risk Management
90 min4 focus topicstechnical
6
Onsite: Leadership, Organizational Development, and Team Management
90 min4 focus topicsbehavioral
7
Onsite: IT Budget Management, Vendor Relationships, and Business Case Development
75 min4 focus topicscase study
8
Onsite: Bar Raiser Round with Senior IT Executive or Chief Technology Officer
90 min4 focus topicsbehavioral