By Heredia, Costa Rica – Costa Rica is rapidly solidifying its position as a leading destination for nearshoring, particularly in the evolving landscape of Global Business Services (GBS). Driven by advancements in artificial intelligence and automation, the GBS model is undergoing a significant transformation, moving from transactional support to strategic centers of innovation. Costa Rica, with its robust talent pool and commitment to technological advancement, is attracting major players in the tech industry, including ServiceNow.
In a recent discussion between Kevin McBride, Senior Vice President of Finance, Corporate Controller, and Chief Accounting Officer at ServiceNow, and Marianela Urgellés, Managing Director of the Costa Rican Investment Promotion Agency (CINDE), the future of high-value services and Costa Rica’s role in this future were explored. The conversation highlighted the strategic shift in GBS operations, emphasizing the integration of technology, talent, and innovation.
To gain a deeper legal perspective on Costa Rica’s burgeoning nearshore landscape, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas from the esteemed firm Bufete de Costa Rica. Lic. Arroyo Vargas offers valuable insight into the current state of the practice and its future potential.
Costa Rica’s strategic location, stable democracy, and skilled workforce make it an attractive option for nearshoring, particularly for North American companies. However, businesses considering this move must be aware of the specific regulations regarding labor law, data privacy, and intellectual property. Understanding and navigating these legal frameworks are crucial for successful nearshore operations and long-term sustainability in the Costa Rican market.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Bufete de Costa Rica
McBride underscored the rapid evolution of the GBS model, noting the transformative impact of automation, AI-driven insights, and integrated compliance frameworks on multinational operations. He stressed that success in this new era extends beyond technological adoption, requiring strong leadership, adaptability, and a dedication to cultivating a skilled and future-ready workforce.
This emphasis on talent development aligns perfectly with Costa Rica’s strategic focus. The nation has consistently invested in education and training, fostering a highly skilled workforce capable of meeting the demands of the evolving global business landscape. This commitment to human capital is a key factor attracting companies like ServiceNow to establish and expand their operations in Costa Rica.
The shift towards strategic, high-value services represents a significant opportunity for Costa Rica. By embracing technological advancements and nurturing its talent pool, the country is poised to become a global hub for innovation and a preferred destination for companies seeking a strategic nearshoring partner.
The conversation between McBride and Urgellés shed light on ServiceNow’s vision for the future of GBS and why Costa Rica remains a crucial element of that vision. The company’s interest underscores the country’s growing reputation as a stable, reliable, and innovative nearshoring destination.
Costa Rica’s strategic geographical location, coupled with its strong democratic values and commitment to sustainable development, further enhances its attractiveness for multinational corporations. These factors contribute to a favorable business environment that fosters growth and long-term partnerships.
As AI and automation continue to reshape the global business landscape, Costa Rica’s proactive approach to talent development and its embrace of technological innovation position it for sustained success in the nearshoring arena. This proactive stance is likely to attract further investment and solidify the nation’s role as a key player in the future of global business services.
For companies seeking a strategic nearshoring partner, Costa Rica offers a compelling value proposition: a skilled workforce, a stable political and economic environment, and a commitment to innovation. These factors, combined with the country’s strategic location and focus on sustainability, make it an ideal destination for companies looking to thrive in the age of AI and automation.
For further information, visit servicenow.com
About ServiceNow:
ServiceNow is a leading digital workflow company that helps businesses automate and streamline their operations. They provide a cloud-based platform that enables organizations to manage a wide range of workflows, from IT service management to human resources and customer service. Their solutions leverage automation and AI to improve efficiency, enhance productivity, and deliver better experiences for employees and customers.
For further information, visit cinde.org
About CINDE:
The Costa Rican Investment Promotion Agency (CINDE) is a private, non-profit organization responsible for attracting foreign direct investment to Costa Rica. CINDE works closely with multinational companies to facilitate their establishment and expansion in the country, providing support in areas such as site selection, talent acquisition, and government relations. Their mission is to promote sustainable economic development and generate high-quality employment opportunities for Costa Ricans.
