The IT Circle: Interview with Kevin Courroux, IT Project Lead

Interview with Kevin Courroux, IT Project Lead at Clariane

‍In this conversation, Kevin shares his journey from developer to IT project manager, highlighting the importance of versatility, continuous learning, and the strategic role of IT in large organizations. He discusses how consulting can accelerate skill development, the impact of AI on SaaS environments, and the critical need for visibility in application management. Kevin also reflects on the evolving role of IT leaders, emphasizing the balance between technical expertise and communication to drive business outcomes.

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What advice would you give to someone starting in IT in 2025?

Start by choosing what truly interests you in IT, whether it’s development, security, or project management. Consulting is a great way to explore diverse environments and gain experience quickly. Don’t be afraid to change jobs or take risks, staying in a role just for stability can limit your growth. The key is to find opportunities that challenge you and allow you to develop new skills.

💡 "Consulting allows you to test different roles and industries, helping you discover what you’re passionate about and where you can excel."

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Which IT project are you most proud of, or that challenged you most?

I’ve worked on a variety of projects, from automating tasks in startups to managing large-scale deployments at Clariane. What I appreciate most is the ability to touch multiple aspects of IT, servers, security, user support, especially in smaller structures. In larger organizations, the challenge is navigating complex ecosystems with many stakeholders. Each experience has been valuable, but the most rewarding part is seeing how IT solutions directly impact users and operations.

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What is the impact of AI tools on an already complex SaaS environment?

AI can significantly improve efficiency by automating user workflows, optimising processes, and reducing the complexity of SaaS tools. The key is to implement AI thoughtfully, focusing on areas where it can save time and enhance user experience. AI isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution; it requires careful planning and training to align with business needs.

💡 "AI’s value lies in its ability to streamline workflows and make complex systems more user-friendly, but success depends on how well it’s integrated and trained."

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How have you seen the adoption and usage of applications evolve during your IT career?

‍Adoption has improved as digital literacy has grown, especially among younger generations. Applications are now more intuitive, and users are more comfortable with technology. However, the challenge remains in ensuring that tools are accessible and secure for all users, regardless of their technical background.

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Why is visibility into the application landscape so important for cybersecurity?

Visibility is essential to manage risks and ensure compliance. With so many applications and solutions available, organizations must carefully evaluate their needs and implement tools that align with their security and operational goals. The complexity lies in choosing the right solutions and ensuring they are effectively integrated and monitored.

💡 “Communication is half the job. The more senior you get, the more you communicate on incidents, projects, and changes.”

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What are the best practices for IT communication with the rest of the organisation?

‍Clear processes and internal communication are critical. IT teams must define structured workflows and use tools to streamline interactions. When processes are well-defined, IT can respond more effectively to user needs and communicate solutions clearly. This builds trust and ensures IT is seen as a strategic partner, not just a support function.

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What will the role of a CIO look like in five years?

‍The CIO’s role will increasingly focus on leveraging AI and data to optimise processes and drive innovation. Supervising AI integration, managing data governance, and improving operational efficiency will be key priorities. The goal will be to create a more agile IT environment that supports business growth and adapts to evolving technological landscapes.

💡 "The CIO of the future will need to balance technical leadership with strategic vision, ensuring IT investments deliver measurable business value."

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How do you view IT training and continuous learning?

‍Self-learning is crucial in IT. With so many resources available online, professionals can develop skills independently. However, mentorship and hands-on experience remain invaluable. Combining self-study with guidance from experienced colleagues creates a strong foundation for continuous growth.

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