Leo Ortega’s career demonstrates the dynamic nature of the information technology industry and the power of continuous learning.
From his early days in Mexico, where he studied IT and business administration at university, Leo has dedicated his professional life to the ever-evolving world of IT.
Today, Leo stands at the helm of his own business, Peak & Peak, “we focus on IT software development and software implementations," he explains. This role marks a significant milestone in his career, allowing him to leverage his vast experience and drive innovation within the industry.
His perspective on the IT sector is deeply informed by his hands-on experience. The rapid pace of technological advancements is a recurring theme in his career, one that he has embraced rather than resisted. This constant flux necessitates a proactive approach to staying current. "You need to keep an eye on what's coming up," Ortega advises. He underscores the importance of maintaining connections within one's sub-sector and never succumbing to complacency.
Reflecting on his journey, Leo breaks down his experiences into two main categories: personal growth and the evolution of his current business. Upon arriving in the UK, Ortega had to build his network from scratch and learn how to navigate the complexities of a new business environment.
Despite these obstacles, Leo found the UK to be an ideal setting for his ventures. "The UK is the most advanced country amongst the large economies in Europe when it comes to tech and digital initiatives. I think I landed in the right place."
From a business perspective, Ortega’s current company thrives in an industry characterised by continuous innovation. "We are in an industry that never stops evolving," he says. "Companies come to us for solutions, advisory, help, and support.
His partnership with a German firm also adds a unique dimension to his leadership role, necessitating constant adaptation to different business cultures. As such, Leo’s approach to these experiences is one of learning and growth. "Every experience is a good experience, even if it's not what you were expecting," he asserts.
Embracing the role of a perpetual learner, he adds, "My wife describes me as a constant tourist. I enjoy everything, no matter where I am." This mindset has been crucial in his interactions with his German colleagues. "For me, it’s about learning how they react to certain situations and how they do things. Everything is a learning situation for me."
Peak & Peak: Driving Innovation in Software Implementation
At the core of Leo’s success lies the company itself, Peak & Peak. The company specialises in implementing CRM solutions primarily for commercial and marketing teams within large companies.
While the agency serves a variety of industries, it has carved out a niche in the consumer goods sector. "We do have clients in other industries, but most of our clients belong to the consumer goods industry." This focus has allowed Peak & Peak to develop a deep understanding of the specific needs and challenges faced by consumer goods companies, enabling them to deliver tailored solutions that drive significant value.
Founded in Germany a decade ago, Peak & Peak has gradually expanded its footprint across Europe. Ortega spearheaded the opening of the UK branch about a year and a half ago, although the company had presence prior to this. In addition to its operations in Germany and the UK, Peak & Peak recently expanded to Portugal, where they have established an office and serve clients. The agency also has a presence in Spain and Central Europe, further broadening its reach and impact.
With the COVID-19 pandemic significantly transforming the way businesses operate, Peak & Peak has been at the forefront of this shift. "The world discovered that everyone can work from home," Ortega states. This realisation has allowed Peak & Peak to tap into a global talent pool without the constraints of a physical office, "you can hire people from anywhere in the world, and you don't need to have an office.” Ortega’s vision for Peak & Peak aligns with these broader trends. By embracing remote work and supporting tech hubs in smaller cities, Peak & Peak is not only contributing to the growth of the IT sector but also driving socio-economic change. "You're giving opportunity to other parts of the population to boost growth across the country," Ortega concludes.
The Essence of Leadership: Guiding, Learning, and Purpose
For Leo, the concept of an ideal leader is multifaceted, blending a mix of attributes that transcend traditional views of leadership. A cornerstone of Leo’s leadership philosophy is the willingness to guide rather than demand, as well as maintaining an open mind and being receptive to new ideas. This approach fosters an environment where team members feel supported and valued, rather than merely being given orders, and is key in bringing together various elements of talent to create a rounded structure.
Beyond these qualities, Leo admires leaders who are driven by more than just financial success and recognise the importance of being purpose-driven. "The people that I admire the most have very little to do with making money," he shares. For Ortega, the true measure of a leader lies in their mission, vision, and contribution to their field. "I like to follow people who don't put revenue and profits as the first two goals, and instead are trying to achieve things other than just the commercial side," he concludes.
As Leo looks ahead, his ambitions for Peak & Peak are clear and ambitious. "In terms of the business, we are on a mission to become the number one digital agency for providing solutions in this space," he declares. This vision entails establishing Peak & Peak as the go-to agency for consumer goods companies in need of software solutions for their commercial and marketing departments. "If a company in the consumer goods industry needs a software solution for their commercial force in their marketing departments, we want them to immediately think of Peak & Peak."
In achieving this goal, Leo’s philosophy underscores the power of small, positive changes. "Sometimes, you don't have to change the whole country or the whole city," he reflects. "You just change someone's life, and that probably will be enough." This perspective highlights his belief in the significance of individual impact and the ripple effect that one positive action can have.
His own envisioned legacy is not about grand gestures but about creating a lasting and positive influence on those around him. "All it needs is that little spark," he concludes. This humble yet profound approach to leadership and legacy illustrates Ortega’s deep commitment to both personal and professional growth, aiming to inspire and uplift others along the way.
Through his work at Peak & Peak and his broader vision for the future, Leo strives to blend business success with meaningful, personal impact, leaving a legacy defined by positive change and continuous innovation.
