Brazilian businessman Haroldo Jacobovicz demonstrates how initial career paths can evolve when opportunities are recognized. Following seven years at Military College and civil engineering studies at the Federal University of Paraná, he redirected his technical education toward information technology applications when Brazil was just beginning to adopt computerization in the 1980s.
His technical orientation was influenced by family background—his father Alfredo balanced engineering practice with academic teaching, while his mother Sarita was among the first women to practice civil engineering in Paraná. Despite these influences, Jacobovicz developed his own professional identity when he noticed the potential of digital technologies beyond traditional construction fields.
The entrepreneurial spirit manifested early when Haroldo Jacobovicz collaborated with three technically proficient classmates to establish Microsystem while still completing university studies. Their company sought to modernize retail operations through computerized inventory management—a concept that proved ahead of market readiness. After two years, they closed operations when it became evident that small businesses weren’t prepared to embrace such solutions, providing valuable lessons about timing that would shape future business decisions.
Seeking corporate experience, Jacobovicz joined Esso petroleum company, where his analytical capabilities distinguished him among numerous engineering candidates. Beginning in sales positions, he advanced to market analysis and eventually to commercial strategy development at the company’s Brazilian headquarters. His responsibilities increasingly involved computer-processed information, reinforcing his interest in technology applications.
When economic policies under Brazil’s Cruzado Plan created new pressures in the fuel industry, combined with personal considerations about proximity to family, Haroldo Jacobovicz transitioned to the Itaipu Hydroelectric Plant. As an advisor to the Technical Director, he observed how large public organizations approached technology implementation differently than private corporations.
After four years in this role, Jacobovicz returned to entrepreneurship with new perspectives. He founded Minauro, introducing a computer rental model that addressed the specific procurement challenges faced by government agencies. This approach gained traction through competitive bids across multiple Brazilian regions.
His technology portfolio expanded through strategic acquisitions of software companies specializing in public administration solutions. These moves resulted in the e-Governe Group, which continues providing digital management tools to municipalities throughout Brazil.
In 2010, Haroldo Jacobovicz ventured into telecommunications by establishing Horizons Telecom with input from Renato Guerreiro, the first president of Brazil’s telecommunications regulatory agency. Focusing on corporate connectivity needs, the company developed into a recognized industry presence over the following decade before being acquired in early 2021.
Following this transaction, Jacobovicz launched Arlequim Technologies in 2021, focusing on virtualization services that enhance computing performance without hardware replacement. This approach addresses both business efficiency requirements and broader technology access by extending the productive life of existing equipment.
Throughout these ventures, Haroldo Jacobovicz has consistently identified practical applications for technology across different sectors. His professional evolution shows how technical knowledge can generate business opportunities when combined with market awareness and a willingness to adapt to changing technological landscapes.