Scaling Engineering Teams in LATAM
Q&A with Carlos Quirarte, Mexico Country Manager for C3.AI
What is your current role at C3 AI?
Vice president, Country Manager - Mexico
What are your responsibilities as VP/Country Manager?
My primary responsibilities are leading C3.AI’s Mexico team, building a high-performance culture, and growing the Applications Engineering team by hiring and developing engineers within the existing team.
Aside from these core responsibilities, I also lead the release and sprint planning efforts for the Applications Engineering team in addition to R&D efforts. Lastly, working closely with senior management and technical architects is a big part of my role at C3.
What are the latest industry trends you are seeing in Mexico/Latin America
I have observed several notable trends shaping the sector in Mexico and Latin America, such as E-commerce Growth, Remote Work Technologies, Smart Cities and IoT, Cybersecurity Awareness, Blockchain and Cryptocurrency Adoption, however, I believe the top three are:
Digital Transformation Acceleration: The pandemic has accelerated digital transformation across various industries. Companies are increasingly adopting cloud computing, AI, and machine learning to streamline operations, enhance customer experiences, and drive innovation.
Fintech Boom: Latin America, particularly Mexico and Brazil, is experiencing a fintech revolution. There is a surge in startups offering digital banking, payment solutions, and cryptocurrency services, aiming to provide financial inclusion to the unbanked population.
Investment in Startups: International investors are increasingly interested in Latin American tech startups. The region is becoming a hotspot for venture capital, with significant funding flowing into various sectors, including fintech, e-commerce, and edtech.
These trends highlight the dynamic and rapidly evolving nature of the tech industry in Mexico and Latin America, presenting numerous opportunities for innovation and growth.
Can you discuss the key to successfully scaling software engineering teams with EPAM (+1200 engineers) and now with C3 AI (+80 engineers)?
I firmly believe that investing in a strong working culture is fundamental to the success and sustainability of our company. In today's competitive landscape, where innovation and agility are key, a company's most valuable asset is its people. Here’s why prioritizing employee well-being, career development, and fair compensation is crucial:
Employee Well-being
Enhanced Productivity: When employees feel valued and cared for, their motivation and productivity naturally increase. A supportive work environment where mental and physical health are prioritized leads to higher engagement and better performance.
Reduced Turnover: High turnover rates can be costly and disruptive. We can reduce burnout and job dissatisfaction by fostering a culture that prioritizes well-being, leading to higher retention rates and a more stable workforce.
Positive Workplace Atmosphere: A focus on well-being cultivates a positive and collaborative workplace atmosphere. Employees who are happy and healthy contribute to a more cohesive and effective team dynamic.
Career Development
Attracting Top Talent: The best talent seeks employers who invest in their growth. Offering continuous learning opportunities, mentorship, and clear career progression paths makes our company an attractive destination for top-tier professionals.
Skill Enhancement: Staying ahead of the curve is essential in the fast-evolving tech industry. By investing in career development, we ensure our employees acquire new skills and stay updated with the latest technologies and industry trends, thereby driving innovation within the company.
Employee Loyalty and Engagement: Employees who see a future within the company are more likely to be loyal and engaged. By supporting their professional aspirations, we build a committed workforce that is dedicated to achieving our collective goals.
Fair Compensation
Fairness and Equity: Fair compensation is a fundamental aspect of a just and equitable workplace. Ensuring that employees are paid fairly for their contributions promotes a sense of fairness and respect, which is essential for a positive working culture.
Employee Satisfaction: Competitive and transparent compensation packages directly impact employee satisfaction and morale. When employees feel they are compensated appropriately, they are more motivated and less likely to seek opportunities elsewhere.
Attraction and Retention: Fair compensation is crucial for attracting and retaining top talent in a competitive market. By offering competitive salaries and benefits, we position ourselves as an employer of choice in the tech industry.
Talent Development and Education: There is a growing emphasis on developing tech talent through education and training programs. Initiatives aimed at improving STEM education, coding boot camps, and partnerships with universities are helping to build a skilled workforce.
Building a strong working culture where employee well-being, career development, and fair compensation are prioritized is not just a strategic initiative but a core value. It aligns with our mission to foster innovation, drive business success, and create a workplace where every employee can thrive. By investing in our people, we are investing in our future, ensuring long-term success and a sustainable competitive edge in the tech industry.
In essence, the commitment to a strong working culture is a commitment to excellence, innovation, and sustainability. It’s about creating an environment where our employees feel valued, supported, and empowered to achieve their best.
Do you have any advice for a US technology looking to set up operations in Mexico?
Listen Assertively: Pay close attention to those with experience and knowledge about the Mexican working culture. Understanding local nuances is key to successful integration.
Set Clear Expectations: Establish the right expectations from the very beginning. Clear and consistent communication helps prevent misunderstandings and aligns everyone towards common goals.
Communicate Openly: Foster an environment of open and transparent communication. Honesty builds trust and helps to create a collaborative working atmosphere.
Value Employees Fairly: While labor costs in Mexico may be lower than in the US, it’s crucial to treat employees with respect and fairness. Recognize that lower costs do not equate to lesser value of the workforce.
Engage Personally: Building trust involves personal engagement. Show genuine interest in your employees' well-being and foster relationships to create a strong, loyal team.
By adhering to these principles, you can establish a strong, positive presence in Mexico that respects and leverages the strengths of the local workforce while aligning with your company's values and goals.