The CTO role evolves with the company lifecycle. At founding the CTO is the main coder; in growth — owns delivery; at maturity — becomes an all-in-one leader spanning technology, people and business.
What's next? In decline or the next-bet phase a new contract is needed: either the CTO moves into platform and R&D, or splits the role with a CPTO/Chief Architect, or opens a new S-curve with a new product.
The model helps the founder and the board have an honest conversation about which CTO is needed now and what will change in two years.
Identify the company's current phase: startup, growth, maturity, or next bet.
Name the CTO role contract that fits this phase.
Check which responsibilities should move to a CPTO, architect, or platform lead.