Laura Varela Fallas

Leading multiple companies across diverse sectors may sound overwhelming, but with the right strategies in place, it becomes not just manageable, but an exciting journey of growth and innovation. As the CEO of Verat Properties , iCubica , Opti-Prime Properties , and other ventures under The Varela Group , I’ve spent years perfecting the art of strategic multitasking. Each company I manage operates in a distinct sector—from real estate to tech-enabled services—yet they all align under a common goal: delivering innovative, sustainable solutions. In this article, I’ll share my approach to managing multiple ventures successfully, covering everything from strategic planning to leadership delegation, and how I leverage technology to streamline operations. Whether you’re leading a startup or a growing business portfolio, these insights will help you master the art of multitasking in your entrepreneurial journey. Embracing Strategic Planning Across Sectors One of the biggest challenges of lead...

In today’s dynamic business world, I see more and more women stepping into leadership roles, not just as participants but as true trailblazers. We are breaking barriers, driving innovation, and challenging the norms across every industry—from tech and finance to fashion and global trade. As someone who’s led teams and companies across logistics, tech-enabled services, and real estate, I know firsthand the unique challenges and opportunities we face. I’m proud to be part of this movement that’s reshaping the way business is done, and I’m constantly inspired by the incredible women who are leading alongside me. This journey is not mine alone. I stand with remarkable women like Whitney Wolfe Herd, Adena Friedman, Sara Blakely, and Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala—each of whom has made waves in their respective fields, breaking down barriers and setting new standards. Together, we’re creating a business landscape where diversity isn’t just welcomed; it’s celebrated. In this blog post, I want to sh...

In today’s business world, CEOs face a growing responsibility—not just to their bottom line but to the planet. Balancing business growth with environmental responsibility is no easy feat. As Laura Varela Fallas , a seasoned international business leader, I’ve encountered this challenge firsthand. From leading tech-enabled enterprises to overseeing large-scale real estate projects, I’ve seen the tension between expansion and sustainability. But here’s the good news: they don’t have to be at odds. A famous quote from Richard Branson resonates with me: “There is no planet B.” It’s a simple yet powerful reminder that businesses, like mine, must find ways to grow while respecting the environment. Whether I’m scaling The Varela Group or managing property developments at Construcciones Generales Amiral , environmental sustainability is always a core consideration. What’s even more important is understanding that customers today are increasingly aware of greenwashing—where compan...

In today’s fast-paced, tech-driven world, networking has transformed from handshakes at conferences to virtual meetings across borders. As someone who started in Costa Rica and later expanded my business to Los Angeles, I’ve seen firsthand how the dynamics of networking have changed. The shift to digital networking has opened up incredible opportunities for entrepreneurs like me to connect globally without ever leaving the office. However, the core principle of successful networking remains the same: authenticity. As Porter Gale famously said, “Your network is your net worth,” and I couldn’t agree more. Whether you’re building relationships face-to-face or through a screen, the value you bring to each interaction is what will truly set you apart. In this article, I’ll share how I’ve navigated the world of digital networking, offering tips on how to foster genuine, lasting relationships in a digital age. Why Authenticity Matters in Networking In a world where conn...