In the fast-paced world of IT, few journeys are as compelling as that of Juan Cortes. From the disciplined ranks of the military to the dynamic challenges of global manufacturing, Juan’s story is a testament to the power of teamwork, integrity and adaptive leadership. 

Discover how this shy high school student transformed into a respected IT leader, navigating the complexities of modern technology with wisdom and grace.

Early Life and Military Influence

Juan Cortes, director of digital and IT for OPW, a Dover Company, embarked on his leadership and IT journey in an unexpected place: the military. Growing up shy and introverted, Juan found his calling in the disciplined and team-oriented environment of the military. Boot camp and subsequent service ingrained in him the principles of servant leadership and the importance of teamwork. These experiences laid the foundation for his career in IT and his emphasis on the importance of the mission over individual contributions and the power of collective effort.

Career Path and Pivotal Moments

Juan was introduced to IT during his time in the Navy. He maintained the ship’s servers and PCs. This experience sparked his interest in technology, leading him to pursue a career in IT after his military service. His professional journey included roles at Hammacher Schlemmer, Procter & Gamble, Kroger and more.

A pivotal moment in Juan’s career occurred at Kroger. He was assigned to a struggling project involving system conversions in 2,700 stores. He faced tight deadlines and a demoralized team. Juan presented a realistic plan to senior management, emphasizing honesty and data-driven decision-making. This approach earned him the trust of the CIO and allowed the project to succeed, reinforcing the importance of transparency and integrity in leadership.

Opportunities and Strategies at OPW

In his current role at OPW, Juan navigates the complexities of managing IT operations across a diverse and global manufacturing company. There are 18 companies under the OPW umbrella, each with unique requirements and systems. His focus is on maintaining seamless operations while gradually integrating various ERP systems. Juan thrives in this dynamic environment, enjoying the challenges and the opportunity to keep the business running smoothly.

Evolving Industry and Technology Trends

Reflecting on the evolution of the IT industry, Juan notes the proliferation of technology solutions available to address business problems. The sheer number of options can lead to analysis paralysis, which makes it crucial to start with a clear understanding of the business problem before considering technological solutions. Juan emphasizes the importance of focusing on business requirements to filter and narrow down the vast array of technology options, ensuring intelligent and effective solutions.

Juan Cortes on Leading With Integrity and Navigating IT Challenges

For Juan Cortes, the journey from a shy high school student to a respected IT leader highlights the transformative power of military service, the importance of teamwork and the value of honesty and integrity in leadership. His insights into the evolving technology landscape provide valuable guidance for navigating the complexities of modern IT environments. Thank you, Juan, for sharing your experiences and wisdom with us. Watch the full interview here. 

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