Meet Robert Holguin, Senior Global IT Project Manager at Vallourec
Driving Global IT and Operational Technology Transformation
Based in North America, Robert Holguin stands at the crossroads of technology and strategy. As Senior Global IT Project Manager at Vallourec, he leads large-scale initiatives that connect enterprise systems with manufacturing excellence. His mission: deliver solutions that are not only technically robust but strategically aligned with the Group’s vision for digital transformation.
A Strategic Role at the Heart of Digital Transformation
Robert’s scope goes far beyond traditional project management. He oversees end-to-end delivery of IT and manufacturing technology projects across global facilities, ensuring consistency with enterprise architecture and operational standards. From demand intake and prioritization to capacity planning and vendor coordination, his role blends governance discipline with adaptability in fast-paced environments.
“What motivates me is the constant opportunity to learn and evolve. Every project introduces new technologies, vendors, and challenges that push me to adapt and grow.”
From AI to Manufacturing Systems: A Career Bridging Technology and Business
With a Master’s in Computer Information Systems and advanced studies in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, Robert has spent over two decades leading complex IT programs, from enterprise system integrations and cloud migrations to AI-driven initiatives and manufacturing systems. This unique blend of technical depth and leadership experience naturally led him to Vallourec, eight months ago, where he drives IT/OT transformations that enhance efficiency and collaboration across the value chain.
“Vallourec offered the perfect blend of strategic responsibility and hands-on leadership. The global scope and exposure to both business and industrial projects made it an ideal environment to apply my experience while continuing to grow.”
Robert’s career perfectly embodies the values of the “We are Vallourec” diversity, equity and inclusion program. This program values all differences, focusing on three key aspects: gender, culture and generation. It also demonstrates how the Group creates an inclusive environment and offers opportunities for growth, enabling every employee to realize their professional and personal ambitions.
Leadership Beyond Delivery: Mentorship and Best Practices
Robert takes pride in mentoring project managers and team members, elevating delivery maturity and embedding best practices across the organization. For him, success is not just about meeting deadlines, it’s about building teams and processes that accelerate Vallourec’s digital maturity.
“Our role is to bring clarity to ambiguity, balancing governance with flexibility. It’s about enabling transformation that connects technology with business value.”
What Makes a Great Global IT Project Manager?
Strategic vision, technical expertise, and the ability to align diverse teams are key. Robert emphasizes adaptability, clear communication, and a passion for continuous learning. His advice to future IT leaders:
“Embrace complexity and collaboration. Success comes from bridging cultural and functional boundaries and seeing every challenge as an opportunity to learn.”
Looking Ahead: Shaping the Future of Smart Manufacturing
Robert envisions his role evolving toward greater influence in defining Vallourec’s digital roadmap, driving global standards, intelligent automation, and predictive analytics. His ambition: to help shape enterprise-wide transformation and build teams that not only execute projects but accelerate innovation.
A Grounded and Curious Personality
Outside of work, Robert finds balance in the outdoors, traveling, camping, boating, and fishing. He also dedicates time to professional growth and stays at the forefront of emerging technologies, particularly AI and digital innovation.
“Exploring new ideas fuels both my curiosity and creativity.”
Robert Holguin embodies the spirit of transformation: strategic, hands-on, and relentlessly curious. For Vallourec, he is more than a project leader, he is a catalyst for global digital evolution.
