Roderick Schacher is a distinguished entrepreneur and philanthropist from Tegucigalpa, Honduras. With academic foundations from Bentley University and Florida International University in finance and international business, Schacher has pioneered significant innovations as the founder and CEO of Grupo Visión. His entrepreneurial ventures have spurred economic growth across Central America and the Caribbean by creating thousands of jobs and integrating cutting-edge technologies in various industries. Beyond his business acumen, Schacher is deeply committed to philanthropy, actively supporting initiatives like Parque para una Vida Mejor and Fundación del Niño con Cáncer, which enhance community welfare. An avid golfer, Schacher’s leadership is recognized for its blend of strategic innovation and profound community impact, earning him respect and admiration in both corporate and social spheres.
How did you get started in this business?
I began my journey in business following my graduation from Florida International University, where I majored in finance and international business. My family has deep roots in various business sectors in Honduras, which inspired me to create something of my own. I saw the opportunity to innovate and drive growth in our region, leading to the founding of Grupo Visión.
How do you make money?
Grupo Visión operates across multiple sectors, including technology, manufacturing, and services, which diversify our revenue streams. We focus on creating value through innovative solutions and reliable service, ensuring we meet the evolving needs of our markets.
How long did it take for you to become profitable?
It took about three years for Grupo Visión to become profitable. Those initial years were critical for establishing our brand, refining our business model, and building a loyal customer base.
When you were starting out, was there ever a time you doubted it would work?
Certainly, there were moments of doubt, especially during the early stages when we were trying to break into well-established markets. However, my belief in our vision and the resilience of our team kept us pushing forward.
How did you get your first customer?
Our first major customer came through networking within industry events. I personally attended various trade shows and conferences, presenting our innovative solutions directly to potential clients, which eventually led to our first significant contract.
What is one marketing strategy that works well to generate new business?
Content marketing has been incredibly effective for us. By sharing our expertise and success stories through various channels, we position ourselves as thought leaders in the industry. This strategy not only attracts new customers but also builds trust and credibility.
What is the toughest decision you’ve had to make in the last few months?
The toughest decision was to pivot some of our business processes to adapt to the digital transformation accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic. This involved significant investment in new technologies and training, which was risky but necessary for our long-term success.
What do you think makes you successful?
My dedication to continuous learning and adaptation is the cornerstone of my success. I’m always seeking out new knowledge and experiences, which helps me stay ahead in a competitive and rapidly changing business environment.
What has been your most satisfying moment in business?
One of the most satisfying moments was when Grupo Visión was recognized with the prestigious RSE seal, affirming our commitment to social responsibility and ethical business practices. It was a validation of our efforts to not only grow economically but also contribute positively to society.
What does the future hold for your business?
The future for Grupo Visión involves expanding our influence in renewable energy and digital transformation sectors. We see significant growth opportunities in these areas, especially given the increasing global focus on sustainability.
What business books have inspired you?
The Hard Thing About Hard Things, by Ben Horowitz, has been particularly inspiring, offering insights into what differentiates top-performing companies from the rest. It’s a book that has shaped my thinking about leadership and organizational excellence.
What advice would you give to your younger self?
I would advise my younger self to embrace risk more freely and fear failure less. Every setback is a setup for a comeback, and understanding this early on would have accelerated my journey even more.
Are you willing to be a mentor?
Absolutely, mentoring is something I’m passionate about. I believe in giving back by guiding the next generation of entrepreneurs, sharing the lessons I’ve learned to help them build successful and sustainable businesses.