Czarina Barnsby FBCS CITP, Head of Technical Architecture, UK Secure Transformation Services, Accenture, explains the merits of Chartered IT Professional status and shares her thoughts on Chartered Week.
Czarina Barnsby is a BCS Fellow and Head of Technical Architecture for UK Secure Transformation Services at Accenture. She is also extremely active in her work to celebrate and support those in her industry. As a co-founder of ArchitectHer, Czarina has built a community connecting professionals in technology architecture. She is also a committee member of the BCS Enterprise Architecture Specialist Group, a recognised AWS Community Builder, and an Ambassador for Google’s Women Techmaker program.
With 14 years of leadership experience across technology sectors, Czarina is dedicated to continuous professional development, believing it is key to driving innovation, advancing careers, and shaping the future of the industry. Her contributions have been recognised with awards for leadership and community impact and she has also had the privilege of serving as a judge for the UK IT Industry Awards and the BCS Lovelace Medal—an opportunity that allows her to celebrate the excellence and innovation she champions.
What first made you decide to apply to become chartered?
It was my line manager, Ian Mitchell, a BCS Fellow and Chartered professional, who first encouraged me to pursue Chartered status. Having supported over 40 IT professionals in achieving their CITP, I had always been focused on mentoring others through their own chartered journeys. However, I realised that true leadership means leading by example. Applying for chartered status wasn’t just about personal achievement — it was about formally recognising my experience, impact, and commitment to the industry. The process reinforced the importance of celebrating professional milestones, and earning my own chartered status has strengthened my credibility while allowing me to continue supporting others with even greater insight.
What impact has CITP registration had on your career?
Earning Chartered IT Professional (CITP) status is more than just an accreditation—it’s a powerful industry-backed endorsement of expertise, leadership, and ethical practice. Walking into a room as a chartered professional sets a bar, signalling a high standard of technical competence, leadership, and professionalism. CITP has not only opened doors professionally but has reinforced my position as a strategic leader in technology and digital transformation. A colleague of mine, initially hesitant about pursuing CITP, is now not only a Chartered IT Professional but also now a CITP assessor, actively shaping the next generation of accredited IT leaders. Achieving CITP status places you among a group of IT professionals whose expertise is externally validated against stringent industry benchmarks. Chartered status is not just a badge, but a sign that you are a highly competent individual operating at SFIA Level 5 or above. That recognition carries significant weight.
What do you believe to be the most critical ethical responsibilities for IT professionals today?
I believe the most important ethical responsibilities for IT professionals are professionalism, integrity, and adherence to ethical standards. In an era where technology underpins critical aspects of society, IT professionals must lead in shaping ethical AI, strengthening cybersecurity, and ensuring digital inclusivity. The role of IT is no longer just about innovation; it is about responsible innovation. IT professionals must play an active role in driving industry best practices and enhancing capabilities. As the BCS highlights, it’s about making a positive social impact, contributing to public good, and taking environmental responsibility.
As a CITP, you are required to maintain your skills through continuous professional development. How do you approach this responsibility?
I view continuous professional development as essential. CITP is not something you achieve and then forget about — it’s a commitment to staying current. The pace of technological evolution demands that professionals don’t just keep up; we must stay ahead. I engage with industry through technical research, hands-on experimentation with emerging technologies, and thought leadership contributions. I stay updated through various channels — podcasts, webinars, BCS events, and physical meetups.
How do you support others in achieving CITP status?
I run interactive workshops where I break down the CITP assessment criteria and guide individuals in reflecting on their career experiences. One of the most effective techniques I use is flash training — a quick, focused exercise where participants take two minutes to recall a career story that aligns with each of the application criteria. This builds confidence in articulating technical and leadership contributions with clarity and impact.
I’ve also created a strong peer-support structure through accountability partners and cohorts. By working together, applicants can refine their applications, challenge each other to articulate their individual contributions, and ensure they move away from collective language like 'we' to confidently owning their achievements with 'I'. This approach not only demystifies the application process but also ensures professionals take full ownership of their expertise and leadership impact.
How can organisations best support their staff to become registered?
Organisations can support their staff by creating the right culture by actively encouraging and supporting staff on their journey to Chartered status. Leadership plays a crucial role when senior professionals champion CITP, it reinforces its importance and inspires others to follow suit. Providing structured support, such as workshops and peer mentoring, can help demystify the application process and make it more accessible. Recognising and celebrating achievements not only motivates individuals but also builds positive momentum across the organisation.
One strategy could be identifying and nominating potential candidates. Many highly skilled professionals underestimate their own ability, assuming they need more qualifications, additional years of experience, or a different job title before they are eligible. In reality, many are already working at the required level but don’t recognise it. Encouragement from leadership, coupled with clear guidance on the standard, can help individuals see the true scope of their expertise and take the next step toward accreditation with confidence.
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What does Chartered Week mean to you, and why is it important to celebrate Chartered professionals?
For me, Chartered Week is about recognition, inspiration and strengthening the profession. It’s an opportunity to celebrate those who have achieved Chartered IT Professional (CITP) status and demonstrate a commitment to technical expertise, leadership and professional integrity while encouraging others to pursue the same. By elevating the importance of chartered status, we reinforce IT as a profession that requires not just knowledge and experience, but also a commitment to ethics, accountability, and continued development.
I believe in the saying, 'you have to see it to be it'. Chartered Week highlights this by showcasing those who have achieved CITP, making it more visible and accessible to others considering the path, and inspiring others to take that step in their own career progression.
How do you think being chartered contributes to trust and credibility in your industry?
In a world where digital trust is paramount, chartered status reassures peers, employers, clients and stakeholders that an individual meets rigorous industry standards, operates with integrity, and possesses the technical and leadership expertise to drive strategic outcomes. It validates both technical competency and leadership within the IT field, reinforcing trust and credibility. As a globally recognised mark of excellence, chartered status holds significant value, particularly as the IT industry continues to evolve.
What message would you share with those considering becoming chartered?
I would say that chartered status from BCS is a globally recognised validation of IT excellence, backed by a Royal Charter. It’s a powerful way to validate your expertise. CITP isn’t just an accreditation; it’s a strategic career move that differentiates professionals in a competitive industry. It signals not just capability but credibility. The process itself is a great opportunity for reflection, sharpening your professional narrative, whilst validating your expertise, allowing you to take stock of your achievements and career growth. It reflects your commitment to professionalism, ethical practice, and lifelong learning.
Do you have any closing thoughts?
One principle I live by is ‘lift as you climb’. As you progress in your career, it’s important to bring others along with you. Helping people achieve CITP has been one of the most rewarding parts of my career to date. I often get messages from colleagues and peers saying, 'I got it!' or 'I’m now a Chartered IT Professional!', and it always makes my day. Every time, it has me grinning ear to ear, remembering where they started and how far they’ve come. Seeing their confidence grow throughout the process and watching them achieve something they aspired to is incredibly fulfilling.
For me, Chartered Week is a moment to celebrate excellence in IT, but it’s also a call to action. As technology professionals, we shape the future. Ensuring that future is built on expertise, ethics, and leadership is our responsibility. Chartered status is one of the ways we ensure that future is built on a foundation of excellence.
Learn more about becoming a Chartered IT Professional (CITP)
