Karla Cruz Lizano
Karla Cruz is a seasoned global technology leader with over 28 years of experience spanning industrial engineering, technology operations, and enterprise transformation. Currently serving as a Senior Enterprise Technology Leader at EY, she oversees IT infrastructure and strategy across more than 700 offices in over 150 countries, driving cloud and wireless transformations while optimizing operations. Her career began at Intel in Costa Rica, where she led manufacturing systems and automation programs, before moving into senior global leadership roles at HP and Hewlett Packard Enterprise, managing large, multicultural teams and implementing transformative operational strategies.
Throughout her career, Karla has earned a reputation as a trusted change agent, recognized for her ability to build high-performing teams, scale global operations, and implement technology solutions that deliver measurable business impact. She is known for her customer-centric approach, strategic vision, and ability to foster collaboration across multiple regions, including EMEIA, AMS, and APAC. Karla’s leadership philosophy emphasizes inclusivity, teamwork, and mentorship, guiding individuals to unlock their potential while achieving organizational objectives.
Beyond her professional achievements, Karla is a passionate advocate for women in technology, leading EY’s Women in Technology initiatives and serving as a global leader for enterprise technology women’s networks. She partners with external organizations to advance women in leadership and mentors future leaders across industries. A certified global executive from Thunderbird School of Global Management and an industrial engineering graduate, Karla balances technical expertise with transformative leadership, inspiring innovation, growth, and excellence in every team she leads.
• Artificial Intelligence Essentials V2
• Product Management
• Green Belt Certification
• Black Belt Certification
• Universidad Internacional de las Américas - B.S.
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to continuous learning, adaptability, building trust with my teams, and a strong commitment to developing people, while remaining curious and engaged with emerging technologies.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve received comes from the leaders I worked with at Intel, HP, and EY, as well as from global colleagues and technical experts who helped shape my leadership approach and strategic mindset.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would encourage young women to continuously invest in their learning, seek out mentors and sponsors, and build confidence in their expertise. Don’t be afraid to step into leadership roles, even as technology evolves rapidly. Invest in people, stay humble, keep learning, and map clear career goals—strong mentorship and sponsorship are critical to long-term career growth.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
I see the biggest challenge in my field as keeping pace with the rapid advancements in cloud and AI technologies. At the same time, I believe the greatest opportunity lies in leveraging these tools to modernize global operations and foster more inclusive leadership pathways.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Integrity, trust, continuous growth, inclusivity, and empowering others to reach their full potential are the values I hold most dear, both in my professional and personal life. I am passionate about mentoring, exploring new technologies like AI, and supporting the professional growth of women in technology and leadership roles.
Locations
EY
Cumming, GA 30040