Systems for People - Pablo Alifano for Forbes

“Beyond technology: this is how Pablo Alifano, CEO of Talan in Spain, Poland, and Latin America, describes the company. In a constantly evolving digital world, Talan, with over 22 years of experience and a presence in 23 countries, stands out as a strategic partner in people-centered digital transformation. “Technology is a means, but the goal is the development of people in an inclusive digital age.”

What role does Talan play in this new technological landscape?

“We help companies navigate the complex digital environment with a strategic and human-focused approach. We concentrate on advanced technology and data solutions, supported by our commitment to sustainability, validated by our Gold certification from Ecovadis, and high-security standards, such as ISO 27001 certification. We also hold the Innovative Company certification from the Spanish government, underlining our capacity to deliver disruptive solutions. With a team of over 7,000 people across 23 countries and offices in Madrid, Barcelona, and Málaga, we support our clients in every phase of their digital transformation, adding value through technology that enhances human and organisational development.”

What services do you offer?

“We are a ‘multi-specialist’ company, covering three key areas. First, in Technology and Data, we offer tailored solutions, from back-end to front-end, along with data governance, big data, artificial intelligence, cloud, and generative AI. Secondly, in Applications and Cloud, we integrate leading platforms such as Salesforce, SAP, Oracle, Microsoft, AWS, IBM, and Lynx, among others. Finally, in Consulting, we address critical areas such as supply chain, ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance), carbon emissions reduction, cybersecurity, and business agility.”

In a highly competitive sector, how do you stand out from other companies?

“Our company size allows us to tackle large-scale projects while maintaining agility and close connections with clients and collaborators. Talan offers the solidity of a global company without losing the flexibility of an agile and human organisation. For us, every project is an opportunity to grow alongside the client, providing innovative and sustainable solutions.”

What has driven your international growth?

“Our growth has been driven both organically and through strategic acquisitions in key markets. These acquisitions have enabled us to expand our global presence and offer new capabilities. We aim to be a global leader in technology and data, which requires both a worldwide vision and a local commitment to our clients and communities.”

What has been the key to Talan’s success in Spain?

“Talan began operations in Madrid in 2018 and opened an office in Málaga three years ago. Our success is largely due to Málaga Tech Park, which hosts over 670 technology and innovation companies and provides a unique collaborative environment. Additionally, our presence in Barcelona and our focus on diversity and multiculturalism have been essential in attracting talent from more than 25 nationalities. This combination of a strong local ecosystem and an inclusive internal culture has consolidated our presence in Spain.”

How would you define your leadership style at Talan?

“Leadership at Talan is guided by an entrepreneurial spirit and a commitment to the professional development of our team. We foster an inclusive and collaborative environment where everyone can grow and contribute ideas. Our certification as a ‘Great Place to Work’ demonstrates our commitment to a quality work environment with a positive impact.”

What have been the main challenges in these six years?

“I do not come from a consulting background. I have always worked in the financial sector, in banking and auditing in Argentina, Mexico, the United Kingdom, and for many years now in Spain. This was the main challenge and, at the same time, one of the great advantages because clients see me not as a consultant but as someone working towards a common goal. Another major challenge was creating synergies and growing organically.”

What are your objectives for 2025?

“By 2025, we plan to reach €1 billion in revenue, supported by a strategic acquisition in Spain and Latin America and by expanding our service portfolio. Our goal is to have our synergies generate exponential value.”

There’s a lot of talk about job loss. How does digital transformation affect workers?

“For Talan, technology must serve people. Our goal is for systems not only to support workers but to enhance their growth and development. In every project, our aim is to create processes and solutions that benefit people, because at Talan, we believe in systems for people and people for systems.”