Twenty-five years ago, a dream was born in Costa Rica, a country known for its natural beauty and political stability, but not necessarily as a hub for outsourcing. In 1999, Jeffrey Mora, with a clear vision and entrepreneurial spirit, decided to found Grupo STT, a company that, from its humble beginnings, has managed to expand globally, now operating in over 22 countries.
Over this time, Grupo STT has not only survived but thrived, facing both global and local challenges, constantly innovating, and keeping its essence intact. In this exclusive interview, President and Founder Jeffrey Mora reflects on the company’s journey, its achievements, and the challenges that have shaped its success.
The First Steps: Origins of Grupo STT
The story of Grupo STT begins in a time of change and uncertainty. “In 1999, when I founded Grupo STT, the concept of outsourcing was just beginning to be understood in Costa Rica,” says Mora. The company was born with a focus on offering staffing services to American companies with operations in Costa Rica. With only six employees, including Oscar González, one of the pioneers who is still part of the company, Grupo STT began to chart its path in an emerging and unexplored market.
One of the first major milestones was the contract with the Pan American Health Organization, which not only helped solidify their presence in Costa Rica but also laid the foundation for future international expansion. Over the years, the company diversified, offering a broader range of services, from payroll management to legal services, adapting to the needs of the markets in which it operated.
Evolution and Expansion: Keys to Success
The success of Grupo STT is not due to a single factor but to a combination of technological innovation, a committed team, and a constant ability to adapt to market changes. “One of our greatest strengths has been staying at the forefront of technology, which has allowed us to offer a differentiated service,” says Mora. Employee turnover is low, which means that knowledge and experience remain within the company, ensuring high-quality service.
The journey towards globalization has not been easy. The lack of a support ecosystem for internationalization in Costa Rica was a significant challenge. However, perseverance, continuous training, and a clear focus on technology allowed Grupo STT to expand beyond its borders. Today, the company operates in 22 countries, adapting to the peculiarities of each market while always maintaining its essence and quality of service.
Challenges Overcome, Lessons Learned
Throughout these two and a half decades, Grupo STT has faced various challenges, from the 2008 financial crisis to the COVID-19 pandemic, and more recently, the rapid technological changes driven by artificial intelligence and Web 3. “Each of these challenges has taught us something valuable,” reflects Mora. The 2008 crisis, for example, forced them to rethink their financial model, while the pandemic accelerated the adoption of technologies that allowed the company to continue operating efficiently, even in adverse circumstances.
But perhaps the most significant challenge is the one they face now, in 2024, with the rapid evolution of technology. Mora is clear about it: “Change is the only constant in our lives, and those who do not adapt to change are destined to fall behind.” This mindset has allowed Grupo STT to remain relevant and continue growing, even in an increasingly competitive business environment.
Innovation as a Fundamental Pillar
Innovation has been a fundamental pillar in the growth of Grupo STT. A notable example is the adoption of cloud technology in 2010, a bold move at a time when this concept was still unknown to many. “We decided to migrate our entire operation to Google and adopt NetSuite as our CRM and ERP, which allowed us to consolidate our operations globally and significantly improve our efficiency,” recalls Mora. This decision not only optimized their internal processes but also enabled them to offer a more agile and efficient service to their clients.
Celebrating This Special Date
On its 25th anniversary, Grupo STT not only celebrates its past but looks to the future with optimism and determination. Jeffrey Mora, along with his team, has created a company that has not only stood the test of time but has thrived, constantly adapting and evolving.
The next 25 years will bring new challenges, but also new opportunities to innovate and lead in the global outsourcing market. With a solid foundation, a committed team, and a clear vision, Grupo STT is ready to face whatever comes next, always maintaining its essence and commitment to excellence.
