SaaS startups break sector silos in CTO hiring as role evolves into ‘architect of scale’

India’s SaaS startups are increasingly tapping technology leaders from across sectors, signalling a shift in how engineering leadership is being built as companies scale. Nearly 60% of CTOs in SaaS firms come from non-SaaS backgrounds, with enterprise technology emerging as the largest feeder segment.

“What we are seeing is a redefinition of the CTO role itself. The CTO is no longer just the architect of the product; they are increasingly the architect of scale,” said Anshuman Das, CEO and Founder of Longhouse.

The report highlights a broader evolution of the CTO role – from pure-play technologists to cross-functional business leaders with adaptability, cross-domain expertise, and global exposure becoming critical as the ecosystem matures.