FACT’s Founder Jesmond Pace Retires: A Chapter Closes on Malta’s Tech Scene

In the heart of Malta’s Silicon Hub, at the corner of Triq il-Kbira in Birkirkara, the FACT logo has been a constant for over two decades. Today, that constant is changing. Jesmond Pace, the man behind the tech giant, has announced his retirement.

From Humble Beginnings to Tech Titan

Jesmond Pace started FACT in 1998, a time when the internet was still a novelty in Malta. With just a handful of employees and a vision, he turned a small office in Birkirkara into a tech powerhouse. Today, FACT employs over 200 people, serving clients worldwide from its headquarters in Malta.

Pace’s journey is a testament to Malta’s tech growth story. He was there when the island’s first internet service provider launched. He witnessed the evolution of the tech scene, from dial-up connections to high-speed internet. FACT grew with the industry, becoming a symbol of Malta’s tech prowess.

Innovation and Impact

FACT’s impact on Malta’s tech scene is undeniable. It pioneered web development and digital marketing services on the island. It was one of the first companies to offer cloud services in Malta. It even helped shape the local tech talent pool, providing training and mentorship to countless young professionals.

Pace’s influence extended beyond FACT. He was a founding member of the Malta Communications Authority and served on the board of the Malta Information Technology Agency. He was a vocal advocate for tech education and innovation, often speaking at local events and forums.

: A New Chapter

Pace’s retirement leaves big shoes to fill. But he’s confident in the team he’s leaving behind. “FACT is more than just me,” he says. “It’s the people who’ve grown with me, who’ve shaped our culture, who’ve made us what we are today.”

The company will be led by a trio of directors: Mark Pace (Jesmond’s son), who’s been with FACT since its early days; and two long-serving employees, Joseph Vella and Mario Aquilina. They’ve big plans for FACT’s future, promising to build on the legacy Jesmond Pace leaves behind.

As for Pace, he’s looking forward to spending more time with his family, traveling, and perhaps even mentoring the next generation of tech entrepreneurs. “I’m not disappearing completely,” he laughs. “Malta’s tech scene has given me so much. I want to give back in any way I can.”