Romania’s ICT sector includes dynamic, world-class companies which can provide exceptional services for customers in Romania, throughout the region and worldwide. Bogdan Padiu, CEO of Teamnet Group, founded one of these companies – Teamnet – 15 years ago, and what began as a small enterprise created by young programmers has grown to become a leader in its field, at regional level. Bogdan Padiu discusses current trends in Romania’s ICT industry and highlights its growth potential.
European Times: What are some recent developments in Romania’s ICT sector?
Bogdan Padiu: Investors should know that they can trust Romanian ICT companies. Romanian society is changing rapidly; it is as though everything that happens in most countries over a decade is compressed into a couple of years here in Romania. In spite of the challenges, the Romanian ICT sector includes many cutting-edge companies like Teamnet which operate according to the highest international standards. Potential customers should take a close look at the quality of companies’ projects, the companies’ governance, whether they have a strong auditing system and other facts rather than just following rumors in media reports.
European Times: What about the recent job losses in the local ICT industry?
Bogdan Padiu: Our priority is to have a strong team, so our main focus is to hire talented people. This decision has allowed us to generate growth and offer competitive products. Customers and investors can also find excellent companies and very productive, reliable partners here in Romania. Some investors may think “I’ll go to Romania in five years when things have settled down a little,” but five years from now, investors will not find the same opportunities here that they can find today.
European Times: Do you believe most foreign investors have a clear idea of conditions in Romania today?
Bogdan Padiu: Not at all. Romania is not enough appreciated and so is its region. Investors should definitely try to find out more about the advantages of the Romanian market. Romania has outstanding, multilingual, highly skilled human resources and high-potential investment opportunities in many sectors. Asian investors have been quick to appreciate Romania’s attractions as an investment choice and as a gateway to the EU market. More European investors should follow their example.
