Haroldo Jacobovicz and His Journey Through Brazilian Technology Development
The story of Brazilian technology executive Haroldo Jacobovicz reflects a professional trajectory shaped by vision and adaptability. Born to a family with strong ties to civil engineering—his father was an engineering professor and his mother was among the first women to practice civil engineering in Paraná—Jacobovicz initially appeared destined for a similar career path.
After attending Military College for seven years and studying Civil Engineering at the Federal University of Paraná, he made an unexpected pivot toward information technology in the 1980s. This decision marked the beginning of a career that would span multiple technology ventures across four decades.
His first entrepreneurial attempt came before completing his university studies, when Haroldo Jacobovicz and three friends launched Microsystem, a company designed to provide automated inventory solutions for retail businesses. Despite their technical vision, the venture closed after two years—a consequence of market timing, as Brazilian small businesses weren’t yet ready to embrace computerization.
This early lesson proved valuable as Jacobovicz joined Exxon Mobil (then Esso), where he quickly progressed through several positions. His work analyzing market data using computer systems further cemented his interest in technology’s business applications. When economic changes during the Cruzado Plan created new pressures in the fuel industry, Jacobovicz transitioned to a role at the Itaipu Hydroelectric Plant as an advisor to the Technical Director.
The experience working within both multinational and government-owned organizations gave Haroldo Jacobovicz unique perspectives on technology implementation across different operational structures. He observed how public sector computerization faced distinct challenges, particularly regarding asset acquisition processes.
Drawing on these insights, he established Minauro, a computer rental and maintenance company targeting public agencies with an innovative four-year contract model that included regular equipment updates. The concept found success through government bids across southern and southeastern Brazil.
His business portfolio expanded through strategic acquisitions of software companies specialized in public administration solutions. These moves resulted in the formation of the e-Governe Group, which continues to provide digital management tools to municipal governments throughout Brazil.
In 2010, Haroldo Jacobovicz ventured into telecommunications with the creation of Horizons Telecom. The company was developed with input from Renato Guerreiro, the inaugural president of Brazil’s National Telecommunications Agency. Within ten years, Horizons established itself as a significant player in the corporate telecommunications market before being acquired in 2021.
Following this transaction, Jacobovicz launched Arlequim Technologies, focusing on computer virtualization. The company addresses digital performance gaps by optimizing existing hardware, enabling older systems to function at higher capabilities without replacement—a solution with particular relevance for expanding digital access across economic divides.
Throughout these ventures, Haroldo Jacobovicz has maintained a consistent approach to identifying technological opportunities before they become mainstream. His professional evolution demonstrates how technical background combined with market awareness can drive business development in emerging technology sectors.
Today, his work continues to address practical technology needs across various segments of Brazilian society, from government offices to gaming enthusiasts seeking improved computing performance.