Get to know Ingrid Hernandez Remedios

Meet Ingrid, Senior Director of IT Solutions

What was your last career change?

My last career change was in January 2023 when I transitioned into my current role as Senior Director, IT Solutions at uOttawa, reporting directly to the CIO. This role expanded my leadership responsibilities, giving me the opportunity to oversee strategic IT initiatives across the institution and lead a talented team driving critical projects.

What made it successful?

The transition was successful thanks to the strong collaboration and expertise of my team. Their commitment, adaptability, and deep knowledge made it possible to deliver on key priorities while navigating change. Additionally, the trust and support from leadership, my experience in previous roles, and the relationships I had built across the university played a major role. My team’s openness to new ideas and continuous learning mindset helped us collectively move forward.

What was the biggest challenge in adapting to your new role?

One of the biggest challenges was shifting from a more operational focus to a strategic leadership role. Balancing high-level institutional priorities with day-to-day execution required aligning multiple stakeholders and ensuring IT remained a trusted partner in driving institutional success. Having a strong team made all the difference—by empowering them, delegating effectively, and fostering a shared vision, we were able to navigate these challenges together.

What advice would you give to someone considering a career change?

Take advantage of every opportunity you are given that will allow you to try a different role in a safe environment. This will let you explore your options and identify what you enjoy the most before you decide to make a longer term or permanent move.

How can colleagues help someone transition into their new responsibilities?

Support, mentoring, coaching and knowledge sharing are some of the ways we can help each other out, not only when transitioning to new responsibilities, but also on a regular basis. Opportunities to rotate roles, pair up with someone else to get work done, peer reviews, etc., are all activities that we should be doing continuously and that will allow for a smoother transition into new responsibilities as a natural evolution of a role.

What do you look forward to in your day?

Nighttime with my girls - cuddling with them while reading them a book or watching their favorite movie. That’s my safest space and definitely the best part of my day!

What three items would you bring if you were shipped to a deserted island?

A bottle of water to keep well hydrated, a sleeping bag to be able to sleep somewhat comfortably, and a satellite radio or phone to keep in touch with reality every so often!

What gif or emoticon do you use to express yourself?

Smiley face is my go-to. A smile will get you a long way!