Delivering Impact with Precision: Spotlight on Carmen Lo CP

1. What area of IT do you specialise in? How does your role quietly keep your organisation running smoothly?

I specialise in delivering enterprise IT programmes with a strong foundation in full-stack engineering. My technical background helps me understand systems and the challenges teams face at all levels, from infrastructure to user interface.

Throughout my career, I have coordinated large-scale technology initiatives aligned with strategic business objectives. I focus on optimising delivery frameworks and methodologies to ensure effective execution. I bridge the gap between technical implementation and business strategy, standardise practices, reduce friction among teams, and ensure that complex programmes progress smoothly. Additionally, I proactively identify risks and engage stakeholders to achieve scalable technology outcomes for the organisation.

2. What is one IT myth you wish you could debunk to the rest of the world?

One myth I'd like to debunk is that “IT Delivery is just project management with a tech twist.” In truth, IT Delivery is essential for digital transformation, converting complex business needs into scalable, secure technology solutions while ensuring timely and budget-conscious delivery.

IT Delivery coordinate teams, platforms, and vendors, aligning stakeholders and managing risks to foster innovation and compliance. So when someone says, “IT Delivery is just scheduling meetings,” I smile, knowing the effort required to make it look effortless.

3. What’s one IT win you’re proud of that most people wouldn’t know happened behind the scenes? What’s a moment where your expertise saved the day?

One of my key achievements as an IT Delivery Professional was identifying undetected privacy breaches within IT operations that posed a compliance risk of over $50 million. Instead of causing alarm, I implemented a discreet mitigation plan that strengthened our data governance framework. This involved tightening access controls and revising data handling protocols to align with privacy regulations. The outcome: no fines, no reputational damage, and a more resilient organisation. This experience highlights the importance of delivering effective solutions with discretion and impact.

4. Which qualities / skills make a great IT professional?

Great IT professionals combine technical skills, soft skills, and strategic thinking. Key qualities include:

• Technical Skills: Systems Thinking, Cybersecurity Awareness, Cloud & DevOps Proficiency, Data Literacy
• Soft Skills: Communication, Collaboration, Adaptability, Empathy,
• Strategic Mindset: Problem Solving, Project Delivery, Risk Management, Business Alignment

Skilled IT professionals improve processes, ensure efficiency, and proactively tackle challenges.

5. Who is your IT hero (tech, system, robot or person)?

Reflecting on my journey from a full-stack engineer to an enterprise IT strategist, I consider Martin Fowler my IT hero. As a thought leader, he bridges technical expertise and architectural thinking. His work on refactoring, microservices, and Agile methodologies has greatly influenced modern system development.

He doesn't just write code; he creates playbooks that guide how teams think, collaborate, and evolve.

Further, I admire systems that quietly keep the world running, and UNIX stands out as a hero in that regard. It is elegant, resilient, and foundational, powering countless essential services and applications.

IT Professionals Day 2025 celebrates the vital contributions of IT experts who keep systems secure, reliable, and innovative. Often working behind the scenes, they are the unsung heroes ensuring business continuity, digital progress, and user support. The day recognises their expertise, resilience, and the critical role they play in society.