Donna Ahern talks to Isabel Lugo, vice president of EMEA and LATAM regions with JT Tech, Dublin-based providers of business IT, network support and hardware.
How would you describe your role?
I oversee internal operations, help build strong customer relationships, and maximise the company’s operational performance.
I work hard to achieve financial goals, to help my team reach their full potential, and to meet client needs in every way possible.
What was your first job, and what did you learn from it?
I worked with my dad when I was 11 years old, and he taught me that commitment and teamwork is vital.
What do you enjoy most about your current job?
Firstly, technology has the potential to change the world, and, secondly, you can create new products and services that make companies and people’s lives better.
Where do you see yourself in five years’ time?
I see myself working in this industry and contributing to the growth and success of JT Tech.
The company will be a leading technology services provider, with a loyal client base. I plan to continue developing my skills and taking on new challenges as they arise.
What is your advice to people starting out in the industry?
Don’t be afraid, don’t look for perfection, but always be open to learn, and seek mentorship and feedback. Networking is key and there are wonderful people and endless opportunities for everyone in tech.
What was your worst job, and what was so bad about it?
Logistics management. The lack of communication and fear of innovation made it impossible to work as a team in that company. Business must adapt to change, since more competitors and technologies arrive every day, and you cannot be left behind.
What do you think the government could do to help business in the current climate?
A programme of incentives and training to encourage people back to work would help with skills shortages.
Affordable housing is also crucial. Personally, I would like to see governments work harder to fight climate change, and I know technology can support this agenda.
What three businesspeople do you most admire, and why?
Brian Jacobson, our JT Tech CEO: He has been a great mentor to me, but, above all, his human side, and the respect he always has for others, no matter what position they have.
Oprah Winfrey: she puts people first, she is resilient and she is innovative.
I also admire the fact that she took risks and was willing to venture into new territory.
Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak: Well, it’s in our pockets, on our screens, and all around us. I have this Steve Jobs quote on my computer screensaver which
says, ‘Sometimes life hits you in the head with a brick. Don’t lose faith.’
What advertising campaign have you most enjoyed in recent months?
I don’t consume much media, and I even avoid websites where pop-up ads are overdone!
If you could bring back one product that is no longer available in Ireland, what would it be?
Fortunately, the products that I like the most are available
What was your favourite grocery brand when you were growing up?
I grew up in south America, and a lot of our food was locally grown or sourced fresh in markets.
Who would come to your ideal dinner party (living or dead)?
Alexander the Great
What is the best piece of advice you have ever received?
Failure is important, but never give up. Turn your fear into strength, keep moving forward and create more than you consume – the last element has been quite useful.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
I am a bit of a workaholic and I work in my other businesses
How much time do you spend on social media in an average week?
More than I should, but I feel that time speeds up when you use social media! Twitter, Facebook, or LinkedIn? LinkedIn
Most likely to say?
Hola!
Least likely to say?
Howaya!
© 2023 Checkout – your source for the latest Irish retail news. Article by Donna Ahern. For more technology news, click here. Click subscribe to sign up for the Checkout print edition.
