Roderick Schacher is a dynamic entrepreneur and philanthropist known for his innovative leadership in the technology and real estate sectors. Born and raised in Tegucigalpa, Honduras, Roderick’s journey into the business world was shaped by his education at Bentley University and Florida International University, where he gained a deep understanding of finance and international business. As the founder and CEO of Grupo Vision, Roderick has been instrumental in transforming the Central American business landscape, particularly in integrating technology with traditional industries like real estate and agriculture. His commitment to sustainable development and community empowerment is reflected in his philanthropic efforts, which focus on education, healthcare, and environmental conservation.
Check out more interviews with entrepreneurs here.
Table of Contents
How has your background influenced your approach to integrating technology with traditional industries?
Roderick Schacher: Growing up in Honduras, I was constantly surrounded by the challenges and opportunities that traditional industries like agriculture and real estate present. My education abroad provided me with a broader perspective on how technology could be leveraged to address these challenges, particularly in regions like Central America, where resource constraints are common. My approach has always been to respect the foundational aspects of these industries while introducing innovative solutions that can enhance productivity, sustainability, and profitability. It’s about finding that balance between tradition and innovation, ensuring that technological advancements complement rather than disrupt these vital sectors.
What drives your focus on sustainable development, and how do you implement this within your ventures?
Roderick Schacher: Sustainable development is not just a business strategy for me; it’s a personal conviction. Growing up in a region rich in natural beauty but also facing significant environmental challenges, I realized early on that our economic growth must not come at the expense of our environment. This belief is woven into the fabric of all my ventures. At Grupo Vision, we are committed to incorporating sustainable practices in every aspect of our operations—from the materials we use in construction to the energy sources that power our projects. We invest in renewable energy, prioritize eco-friendly building designs, and support agricultural practices that enhance biodiversity and soil health. For me, sustainability is about long-term thinking and ensuring that our actions today do not compromise the ability of future generations to thrive.
How do you manage the challenges of driving innovation in a region that is often resistant to change?
Roderick Schacher: Central America is a region with deep-rooted traditions, and change can sometimes be met with skepticism. However, I believe that the key to driving innovation is education and collaboration. When we introduce new technologies or methodologies, we focus on demonstrating their tangible benefits. For instance, in agriculture, showing farmers how AI-driven tools can increase crop yields while reducing resource use can turn initial skepticism into enthusiasm. It’s about building trust, offering support during the transition, and ensuring that people feel empowered rather than threatened by change. I also emphasize the importance of small, incremental changes that build up over time, rather than forcing abrupt shifts that might be met with resistance.
What role does philanthropy play in your business strategy, and how do you choose the causes you support?
Roderick Schacher: Philanthropy is integral to my business philosophy. I’ve always believed that businesses have a responsibility to give back to the communities they operate in. For me, this means focusing on causes that align with my core values—education, healthcare, and environmental conservation. These are areas where I believe we can make the most significant impact. In choosing the causes we support, I look for initiatives that offer long-term benefits and have the potential to create sustainable change. It’s not just about providing financial support; it’s about being actively involved and ensuring that these initiatives align with our broader goals of community empowerment and sustainable development.
How do you stay ahead of industry trends and maintain a culture of continuous learning within your organizations?
Roderick Schacher: The technology and real estate sectors are constantly evolving, and staying ahead requires a commitment to continuous learning and adaptation. Personally, I dedicate time each day to reading industry reports, attending conferences, and engaging with thought leaders. This helps me stay informed about emerging trends and innovations. Within Grupo Vision, we foster a culture of continuous learning by providing our team with access to training programs, workshops, and resources that help them stay current with the latest developments. We also encourage cross-functional collaboration, where teams from different departments work together on projects, allowing them to learn from each other and bring fresh perspectives to the table. Innovation thrives in an environment where curiosity is encouraged, and failure is viewed as a learning opportunity rather than a setback.
What legacy do you hope to leave through your work with Grupo Vision and your philanthropic efforts?
Roderick Schacher: I hope to leave a legacy that demonstrates the power of combining business success with social responsibility. I want Grupo Vision to be remembered not just as a company that achieved great things in technology and real estate, but as an organization that made a real difference in the lives of people and the environment in Central America. My philanthropic efforts are an extension of this vision—creating opportunities for education, improving healthcare, and preserving the environment for future generations. Ultimately, I hope that my work inspires others to think beyond profit and consider the broader impact their actions have on the world. I believe that true success is measured not just by what you achieve, but by the positive changes you bring to the lives of others.
Jerome Knyszewski, VIP Contributor to ValiantCEO and the host of this interview would like to thank Roderick Schacher for taking the time to do this interview and share his knowledge and experience with our readers.
Disclaimer: The ValiantCEO Community welcomes voices from many spheres on our open platform. We publish pieces as written by outside contributors with a wide range of opinions, which don’t necessarily reflect our own. Community stories are not commissioned by our editorial team and must meet our guidelines prior to being published.