Latino Business Speakers Bureau: Andre Arbelaez
story by: David Gomez
The serendipitous nature of success is usually understated in most narratives of successful individuals and organizations. Most narratives focus on the discipline, the genius, or the hard work of a successful leader or organization. However, equally important and undoubtedly vital, are the relationships that propelled them to succeed. An introduction, a letter, or a collaboration among individuals who joined their efforts for a common goal are usually at the center of their story’s origin. These stories come about by individuals who connected people and who were incessantly looking for the qualities in people that would provide synergy. Andre Arbelaez possesses magnificent recollection of people’s qualities and their accomplishments. He doesn’t miss a beat when he lists Latino CIO’s from memory along with the company they serve, their annual revenue, and their nationality or ancestry. Andre values relationships and more so, he sees the value and the potential in people.
The son of Colombian parents who embarked in the American Dream in 1967, Andre acknowledges the influence his parents played in his career. His father was a computer programmer and his mother an emprendedorawho started her own language company in their new homeland. Andre is grateful for the principles they instilled in him. He attributes his success to embracing his culture and allowing himself to be proud of his upbringing. He can certainly link his success to these qualities and gifts since his leadership focuses on organizations in the technology industry, innovation, and diversity. He has been the Chair of the board of directors and President for HITEC (Premier Global Executive Leadership Organization) and is currently CEO and President of HC3 (Hispanic C-Suite Corporate Council-the premier member organization for the development of Hispanic Leaders in Corporate America). Andre shares that the value that Hispanics bring at every level of an organization cannot be overstated.
Andre shares valuable insights regarding technological advancementand innovation with great passion and ease and immediately points out Latino participation in leadership roles at global tech companies. He links the contribution of Latino communities to the overall economy to the values passed down the Latino culture, but reflects on what challenges are still on the horizon. Just like the soccer World Cup brings about segmentation of loyalties by nationalities, Latinos are still looking at each other as partakers of the rival flag in a soccer match. Meanwhile, Andre calls for unity of purpose and points out the Hispanic Star symbol and the initiative behind it. He encourages Latinos to unite for causes that transcend culture and race. Just as he values relationships, networking and connecting with others, Andre sees the value in a cohesive Latino culture that strives to achieve a positive impact in the world.