Byron Méndez Sagastume – Managing Partner ECOVIS

ECOVIS: Pioneering Economic Vision and Solutions in Guatemala

In today’s rapidly evolving global market, businesses must adopt innovative approaches while nurturing a culture of learning and development. Since its founding in 2008 in Zurich, Switzerland, ECOVIS—short for “Economy and Vision”—has been committed to doing just that. The firm provides customized solutions to help companies thrive economically, while embracing a philosophy that stresses the importance of continuous learning and exploration. This belief is not just vital for individual growth but is also instrumental in forging meaningful partnerships across various industries.

The story of ECOVIS in Guatemala is marked by ambition and opportunity. Byron Méndez, Managing Partner of ECOVIS Guatemala, embarked on his consultancy career at just 18 years old, working at one of the world’s largest firms. Driven by a vision to enhance service coverage and provide transformative solutions, he aimed to elevate the economic potential of his clients. 

Méndez’s career reached a turning point in 2018 when a German consulting firm sought representation in Guatemala. A friend introduced him to the opportunity, leading to a pivotal meeting in New York. The partnership that emerged from that encounter not only expanded ECOVIS’s service offerings but also strengthened its presence in the regional market. 

With a Master’s degree in Applied Economics from Texas A&M University, Méndez has pursued continuous certification to align with the German emphasis on qualified expertise. “To date, we have achieved nine certifications, including two ISO certifications and recognition from various international institutions,” says Méndez, highlighting the firm’s dedication to quality.

“At ECOVIS, our vision is to be a strong support system for our clients, encouraging growth for them and our internal teams,” Méndez emphasizes. The firm’s goal is to foster continuous development, enabling clients to not only adapt to changes but excel in financial, legal, and fiscal matters, including feasibility studies and du diligence. By broadening their perspectives, ECOVIS empowers businesses to see beyond their immediate economic landscapes.

Guatemala: A Gateway for Growth

ECOVIS Guatemala serves a diverse clientele, from entrepreneurs to multinational corporations, and assists foreign investors in navigating the regulatory landscape. Their partnerships span various sectors, including energy, construction, automotive, commercial, education, and non-profit organizations. Notably, they support the region’s largest energy distributor, providing hands-on assistance that goes beyond traditional consulting services.

“Our strategy is to empower both our clients and staff,” stresses Méndez. This hands-on approach ensures that ECOVIS stays closely aligned with client needs, offering value-added support throughout the business journey—from field operations to crucial meetings.

The firm’s commitment to innovation extends beyond its internal processes. “We aim to provide cutting-edge solutions to our clients,” Méndez notes. Recent achievements include ISO 22301 and 27001 certifications, which enhances data security capabilities, especially for clients utilizing cloud services. 

In collaboration with Central America’s leading technology and robotics solutions provider, ECOVIS is exploring new possibilities to deliver top-tier service to its clients.

Méndez sees immense potential in Guatemala, which serves as a gateway between the U.S. and Mexico and a bridge to the Caribbean. He believes the country can become a regional hub for business, with its competitive interest rates and vast opportunities. 

“As we invite foreign investment to our shores, it’s essential to recognize Guatemala’s role as a hub for regional business,” Méndez says. ECOVIS helps businesses establish and expand their presence in the country, guiding them through regulatory complexities and ensuring compliance with auditing standards.

With a presence in over 90 countries, ECOVIS brings global best practices to local markets, helping businesses thrive in a competitive environment. Their commitment to sustainable growth and innovation positions them as a valuable partner in Guatemala’s economic development.

“We are excited about the future and the opportunities that lie ahead for both our firm and our clients,” Méndez concludes. With its focus on empowering clients and staff, ECOVIS stands ready to pioneer economic vision and solutions in Guatemala, setting a standard for success in the region.