Today we’d like to introduce you to Matias Fernandez
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
From a young age, I always felt a deep passion for the business world and leadership. My name is Matías Fernández Ilarde, and I currently serve as the CEO of Acute Talent. This journey began with a solid education in administration and business, complemented by practical experiences that provided me with valuable insights into the inner workings of companies.
I began my career as a Software Engineer in the technology sector. I have always been keen on staying at the forefront of technological advancements, which allowed me to grow and develop quickly in the administrative realm. Over the years, I served as IT Director and CIO, roles that gave me a deep understanding of how technology can drive efficiency and business success.
As I progressed in my career, I discovered a particular passion for talent development and creating highly effective teams, which led me to co-found Acute Talent alongside Jessica Mendoza. Our mission is to help companies identify, attract, and retain top talent, ensuring their long-term growth and sustainability.
In addition to my role at Acute Talent, I have had the honor of holding various leadership positions in significant organizations. I am the President of the Ibero-American Federation of Young Entrepreneurs (FIJE) and Leader of the Ibero-American Business Space. I also serve on the board of the Ibero-American Business Council (CEIB), where I work tirelessly to promote business development in the region.
One of the most enriching experiences has been serving as CFO & CGO of Be a Butterfly, a company dedicated to driving positive change and innovation. Here, I have been able to apply my expertise in finance and growth strategy to help the company achieve its objectives.
My career has been a journey of constant learning and adaptation. Along the way, I have faced numerous challenges, but each has been an opportunity to grow and learn. I have learned the importance of clear communication, team empowerment, and adaptability in an ever-changing business environment.
Today, I continue to dedicate myself to promoting entrepreneurship and business development in Ibero-America. Through my work with FIJE and other organizations, I seek to support young entrepreneurs and foster a thriving business environment in the region. My commitment to implementing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the vision of a sustainable and successful business future is what drives me forward.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
The journey has been far from smooth. As a native of Uruguay, my career began in the dynamic field of technology as a Software Engineer at Tata Consultancy Services. From an early age, starting at 18 in 2006, I found myself traveling extensively for global projects, with Mexico quickly becoming a primary location. This international exposure shaped my early professional years, fostering a deep understanding of global business dynamics.
Fast forward to my current roles as CEO of Acute Talent and President of FIJE in 2023 and 2024, where I’ve continued to maintain a rigorous travel schedule. Last year alone, I undertook over 70 trips, navigating seamlessly between Mexico and the United States. This period has been marked by leadership challenges and the need for adaptability, particularly highlighted during the COVID-19 pandemic of 2020.
The pandemic posed significant challenges, particularly in the HR and talent sectors. While many companies downsized, Acute Talent chose a different path. We launched the innovative “RecluTalent” program, which garnered attention from major regional media for its dual impact: assisting companies in talent retention and cost-effective recruitment, while supporting displaced HR professionals.
Navigating these challenges while serving in leadership roles at FIJE and CEIB underscored the importance of proactive leadership, resilience, and strategic foresight. These experiences have shaped my commitment to fostering sustainable business practices and advancing the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) across Ibero-America.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Acute Talent stands at the forefront of talent acquisition and management solutions throughout Ibero-America. As CEO and co-founder, alongside Jessica Mendoza, I lead an organization renowned for its specialized expertise in executive headhunting, including C-Level, technology, and high-complexity profiles, as well as administrative and operational roles.
What sets Acute Talent apart is our unwavering commitment to innovation and technological integration. Leveraging cutting-edge AI and Big Data analytics, we redefine the recruitment landscape by delivering precise matches between top-tier talent and leading companies across diverse industries. Our proactive approach ensures that clients receive tailored solutions that enhance organizational performance and drive sustained growth.
I take immense pride in Acute Talent’s reputation as a trusted partner in talent acquisition. Our brand is synonymous with integrity, excellence, and agility in navigating complex staffing challenges. We are particularly proud of initiatives like the RecluTalent program, which garnered widespread acclaim for its role in supporting businesses during the 2020 pandemic crisis, facilitating cost-effective talent retention and recruitment strategies.
I invite readers to explore Acute Talent’s comprehensive suite of services, designed to optimize workforce dynamics and empower businesses to thrive in dynamic market environments. Whether you’re seeking strategic executives, technological innovators, or operational leaders, Acute Talent is dedicated to delivering unparalleled expertise and fostering long-term partnerships that drive success.
Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs or other resources you think our readers should check out?
I find inspiration and strategic insights from a variety of resources that enhance both my professional and personal endeavors. Books like “The 48 Laws of Power” and “The Art of War” have been instrumental in shaping my approach to leadership and strategy, offering timeless wisdom applicable to diverse challenges in business and beyond.
In the realm of technology and productivity, I rely heavily on apps such as LinkedIn for networking and industry insights, as well as Meta’s suite of tools for seamless collaboration and project management. These platforms not only streamline my workflow but also facilitate meaningful connections and innovative solutions within Acute Talent and across the broader business landscape.
Furthermore, I stay informed and inspired through podcasts and blogs that explore leadership, entrepreneurship, and emerging trends in technology and talent management. These resources play a crucial role in keeping me agile and informed, empowering me to navigate complexities and drive innovation within our organization and across Ibero-America.
Overall, leveraging these diverse resources allows me to continually evolve professionally, integrate cutting-edge strategies, and maintain a forward-thinking perspective essential for achieving sustained success in today’s dynamic business environment.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://acute-talent.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/matiasfernandezilarde
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/matiasfernandezilarde
- Twitter: https://x.com/mfernandezilard
- Other: https://mfernandezilarde.bio.link/
Image Credits
For the photo featuring myself with His Majesty King Felipe VI of Spain, credit goes to ‘His Majesty King Felipe VI of Spain’. The other photos highlight my presence without specific credits.
