01About Me

Biography

Father of two boys, husband, and Costa Rican economist. I grew up in Naranjo, Alajuela, attending the local public school.

I started my career in fixed-income asset management before moving into investment banking, private equity, and strategy consulting.

I’ve since used these skills to help private and family businesses build sustainable growth capabilities while staying culturally aligned with their founding leaders.

Throughout my career, I’ve held roles including country manager, operations director, finance director, and corporate director. I’ve also taught "Financing the Entrepreneurial Business" at INCAE Business School.

I graduated Summa Cum Laude with a degree in economics as the top student in my class at Universidad de Costa Rica. At 23, I was admitted to the MSc in Finance at London Business School.

TESTIMONIALS

I’d like to share a few words about me from people I value:

“Juan Pablo embodies the "Costa Rican dream." He is a clear example of determination and mental clarity — a young man from Naranjo who became a distinguished regional executive, a devoted husband and father, a loyal friend, and a world-class advisor. Juan Pablo emerged from a rural environment, raised in a hardworking family and shaped by Costa Rica’s public education system, excelling academically both in high school and university. His academic achievements earned him a master’s degree in London, paving the way for an impeccable professional career spanning over 25 years in finance and strategy. He has held leadership positions in some of the region's top advisory firms, as well as executive roles in leading Central American economic groups.

I’ve had the fortune of knowing Juan Pablo for two decades, first as a colleague, and due to our shared values, we quickly became good friends. As a professional, Juan Pablo stands out for his intellectual sharpness and his ability to translate high-level financial and managerial theory into effective execution in large-scale businesses. I’ve witnessed firsthand the significant impact of his contributions in strategic consulting projects, financial structuring, and the transformation and sophistication of operations for medium and large companies across multiple Central American countries.

Above his professional excellence, Juan Pablo is an extraordinary human being. His warmth and sensitivity allow him to quickly and genuinely earn the trust of his partners, colleagues, clients, and even counterparts. No matter the intensity and scope of his professional responsibilities, Juan Pablo always makes time for his wife and two children, and stays present for his friends. Regardless of the setting, Juan Pablo elevates conversations and the atmosphere with his intellect, judgment, empathy, and remarkable ability to listen. It’s a privilege to call him my friend.”

-Allan Boruchowicz, Founder and Managing Partner, Carao Ventures


“I had the great fortune of working closely with Juan Pablo ("JP") for over two years while I was an analyst at Mesoamérica. More than just a great manager, he was truly a mentor and a role model during some of the most formative years of my professional career.

JP always knew how to guide me in a clear and structured way through every initiative while also giving me the autonomy to solve problems on my own. He always took the time to explain why a task or initiative was important, connecting my work to a broader purpose and the impact it would have on the business. This approach not only kept me motivated, even on the most demanding days, but also shaped my current leadership style. It was JP who instilled this valuable mindset in me.

His discipline was also a source of inspiration. No matter how demanding the work at Mesoamérica was, he never skipped his early-morning gym sessions, demonstrating the importance of consistency and maintaining excellence both personally and professionally. His example made it clear what it truly takes to succeed in all aspects of life.

Finally, in high-pressure moments, JP always remained calm and approachable, ensuring that our projects reached the highest level of quality. He had a gift for elevating those who worked closely with him, demanding excellence while also helping them grow as professionals.

The principles and values he embodied continue to influence me to this day in the company I founded, R2. I wouldn't be where I am without JP's example, and for that, I will always be deeply grateful.”

-Roger Terán, Founder, R2


“I have had the pleasure of knowing Juan Pablo since 2020 and collaborated closely with him for two years. To describe Juan Pablo, I would use the adjective impressive with total conviction.

Juan Pablo is a man who leaves multiple and profound impressions on those who know him. His personal and work ethic quickly stands out—determined, tireless, and straight as an arrow. His level of knowledge and the speed at which he proactively expands it are remarkable. His persistent kindness in dealing with everyone, at all times, under any circumstances, is striking.

After a few months, certain personal traits also become impressive, such as the consistency in his choice of clothing colors on workdays. The last element I will mention—only for the sake of brevity—is the impression left by his ability to pursue both the big and the small. Juan Pablo can identify, manage, and synthesize an enormous amount of details while simultaneously looking up and keeping the big picture in focus. He transitions seamlessly between the macro and the micro with great efficiency.

A family man who keeps what truly matters in focus. Undoubtedly, one of those rare assets that life gifts you too rarely.”

-Guillermo Aguilar, Shareholder and CEO, Grupo Farmavalue & Farmacias del Ahorro


“I have known Juan Pablo for over 20 years, since he joined Mesoamérica. We were colleagues for many years, and throughout that time, we developed a great friendship. We worked together on several projects, and from the very beginning, Juan Pablo stood out among his peers. I have always admired his intellectual and analytical abilities, as well as his talent for bringing new ideas to the table.

During a challenging time for one of the companies I worked for, I did not hesitate to reach out to Juan Pablo to help us assess the situation and define the strategic path forward. His clarity of thought and structured approach were key in that process.

Beyond his professional talent, what I value most about Juan Pablo is his character. He is always willing to help and has a positive attitude.

I am proud to call Juan Pablo not only a colleague but also a friend.”

-Javier Casasnovas, Vice President, Sigma Capital


“Juan Pablo Rodríguez was my student at the School of Economics at the University of Costa Rica, where he stood out as the top student of his generation. His academic rigor, analytical skills, and dedication were evident in every subject, from economic theory to applied quantitative models. His name is remembered in the classrooms as a benchmark of academic excellence.

Beyond his intellectual achievements, Juan Pablo distinguished himself through his courtesy and integrity. He treated classmates, professors, and administrative staff with respect, empathy, and a level of politeness that went beyond mere formality. In academic debates, he defended his arguments with confidence but without arrogance and was always willing to help those who sought his guidance.

After completing his graduate studies in London, Juan Pablo has built an exemplary professional career in the business and finance world, where he has led innovative projects. His strategic vision and the strong technical foundation of his education have positioned him as a highly successful professional.”

-Ronulfo Jiménez, Economist


“I had the opportunity to work with Juan Pablo on many occasions during his years at Mesoamérica, and he always demonstrated an analytical and strategic vision, along with a strong work ethic. His ability to manage complex projects, optimize processes, and create value in highly competitive environments is recognized by all who have had the pleasure of working with him.

On a personal level, Juan Pablo is attentive, mature, level-headed, empathetic, responsible, and a person of great integrity. It has always been a pleasure for me to interact with Juan Pablo, both personally and professionally.”

-Rolando Laclé, Partner, Consortium - Laclé & Gutiérrez