In a time of rapid technological shifts, the financial services and energy sectors face unique challenges in harnessing the full potential of data and AI. Leading the charge in these transformations is Tomas Romero, a senior executive with over 20+ years of experience in enterprise digital change. Currently at AWS, Tomas specialises in cloud, data, high-performance computing (HPC), AI, and M&A advisory, with an extensive background that spans industry leaders like Wipro, E&Y, and Deloitte.
In our conversation, he shared his perspectives on navigating data precision, adopting AI-driven insights, and creating resilient change management strategies that enable sustainable transformation.
With extensive experience in the strategy, design and implementation of data platforms, architecture, and visualisation, Tomas emphasises the importance of data precision and accuracy, particularly in sectors with high transaction volumes like in Investment Banking and Commodity Trading. “When we’re dealing with billions of transactions, even a 0.2% error rate can have massive implications for end consumers,” he explains. For Tomas, the key to mitigating these risks is a robust data infrastructure coupled with AI that enhances accuracy, not only in routine processes but also in critical decision-making.
“AI is becoming a powerful tool for augmenting insights,” Tomas notes, “but it’s only as valuable as the data it processes.” He highlights the importance of rigorous data validation methods, including setting up manual cross-check teams alongside automated systems as projects take shape. “In a recent project, we had one team working with AI-driven setup, configuration and algorithms development, whilst another team manually checking the calculations and outputs to benchmark accuracy whilst the AI Machine Learning models are learning to recognise the patterns through repetition. This dual approach proved that, while AI brings efficiency through learning, manual oversight remains crucial to maintain data integrity as AI models mature and learn.”
Tomas’s experience has shown that even the most sophisticated technology fails without an equally strong focus on change management. “The real challenge isn’t just deploying AI technology solutions, a new data platform, or a new ERP system; it’s about preparing an organisation for the shift,” he explains. By establishing champions for change culture, change agents across the business, clear communication channels and aligning stakeholders across regions and functions, Tomas ensures that employees are brought along on the transformation journey.
Over the past 10 years, Tomas has been is involved in developing Target Operating Models that integrate cloud services, applications, data and processes with existing Energy and Financial Services operations. “Each transformation initiative is unique, but success consistently depends on bringing people along with the change. We work closely with teams to build readiness for adopting new tools, ensuring they understand not just the ‘how’ but also the ‘why’ behind each shift.”
In financial services, AI and robotics are transforming traditionally complex and time-intensive processes, such as credit risk analysis and trading settlements reconciliations, by automating them to achieve both speed and precision. Tomas elaborates: “AI is now capable of handling intricate tasks, from visualising credit risk data in real-time to streamlining the entire finance settlement process. This transformation isn’t just about reducing costs—it’s about enabling teams to make more informed, data-driven decisions quickly, which enhances both operational efficiency and strategic outcomes.”
Over the past 15 years, Tomas continues to advance efforts to support clients in automating customer operations and integrating AI into core financial processes, such as accounts reconciliation and intercompany accounting. “When we automate and add intelligent agents into these processes, we allow professionals to focus on strategic tasks, improving overall efficiency and freeing up resources for innovation,” he says. His approach combines AI-driven data insights with practical automation tools to drive value, especially in customer-facing operations.
Looking ahead, Tomas is optimistic about the growing role of AI, cloud computing, and data analytics in reshaping business models across sectors. “The future of digital transformation lies in integrating emerging technologies that deliver operational and customer-centric value with proper data ,” he says. By focusing on value engineering and process transformation, Tomas helps organisations transition into agile, digitally enabled entities capable of adapting to rapid change.
With a career spanning over two decades, Tomas Romero is a digital transformation leader with extensive experience in sectors such as energy and financial services. His work focuses on cloud computing, data management, AI, and application modernisation, with a commitment to creating data-driven solutions that deliver value at scale. Currently with AWS, Tomas continues to drive large-scale transformations that integrate cutting-edge technology with operational resilience, empowering organisations to navigate change with confidence.
