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

In the heart of Malta’s tech hub, at the bustling Triq San Gwann, the sign outside FACT’s offices has always been a beacon for the island’s digital innovators. Today, that beacon flickers with a touch of nostalgia as the company announces the retirement of its founder, Jesmond Pace.

From Garage to Tech Hub

Jesmond’s journey began in the late 90s, not in a Silicon Valley garage, but in his humble home in Msida. With a dial-up connection and a passion for coding, he started FACT, an acronym for ‘Fast Application Consulting and Training’. The company was born in a small room, but Jesmond’s vision was vast.

Over two decades, FACT grew from a one-man show to a leading tech consultancy, employing over 50 professionals. It became a symbol of Malta’s tech revolution, a testament to what local talent could achieve. Jesmond was more than just a founder; he was a mentor, a cheerleader, and a driving force behind Malta’s digital transformation.

Paving the Way for Malta’s Tech Scene

Under Jesmond’s leadership, FACT didn’t just build software; it nurtured careers. It was one of the first companies to offer tech apprenticeships, giving young Maltese a chance to learn and grow in the digital sector. Many of Malta’s tech leaders today cut their teeth at FACT.

Jesmond was also a champion for Malta’s tech scene on the global stage. He sat on the Malta Information Technology Agency’s (MITA) board, advising the government on digital strategy. He was a vocal advocate for tech education, often speaking at conferences and events, his booming voice echoing through venues like the Mediterranean Conference Centre.

: A New Chapter

Jesmond’s retirement leaves big shoes to fill, but FACT is ready for the next chapter. The company will be led by a trio of directors, all long-serving members of the FACT family. They promise to carry on Jesmond’s legacy, continuing to push the boundaries of what’s possible in Maltese tech.

For Jesmond, retirement doesn’t mean disappearing. He plans to spend more time with his family, mentor young entrepreneurs, and perhaps even dabble in some personal coding projects. “I’m not leaving tech,” he says with a smile, “I’m just changing gears.”

As we bid farewell to one of Malta’s tech pioneers, we’re reminded of how far we’ve come. From a garage in Msida to the heart of Triq San Gwann, Malta’s tech journey is a testament to vision, passion, and the power of believing in local talent.