Juan Pelaez

CTO at 23blocks

Based in United States · 30+ years experience

LinkedIn profile

Summary

CTO & Founder 3Metas and 23blocks. Startup advisor and investor. Software Architect. Dad. Rock Climber. Ironman and 70.3 finisher (9x). Marathon and Ultra Marathon runner (2x). Scuba Diver. Biker | Te

About

I am an accomplished CTO with a proven track record in designing, developing, and implementing a wide array of digital solutions that enhance strategic organizational objectives. My strength lies in translating business needs into high-performance distributed applications, platforms, and information systems for Internet/Intranet environments, having led over 150 successful projects to fruition.

I have leveraged my expertise to benefit well-established corporations and played an important role in the growth of numerous startups. This diverse experience has endowed me with a deep understanding of the strategic leadership required in dynamic, fast-paced environments. My hands-on approach has been fundamental in my active participation in architectural design and decision-making processes.

I have seven Microsoft Certifications, including Microsoft Certified Trainer (MCT), Internal Quality Auditor by Bureau Veritas, and Sitecore Developer. My expertise includes various technical languages and frameworks, including the Microsoft stack, Apple stack, Ruby on Rails, Python, Angular, React, and React Native.

I am proficient in implementing diverse architectural patterns and services, such as Service Oriented Architectures (SOA), Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), Platform as a Service (PaaS), Software as a Service (SaaS), and Software plus Services (S+S), managing stacks on cloud platforms like AWS, and Windows Azure effectively.

I am actively involved in the startup community, having founded and sold, as well as invested in and successfully exited multiple companies. My role extends to mentoring individuals and businesses, guiding them to achieve their full potential. I frequently speak at industry events, leveraging my teaching skills to inspire and educate.

I have completed a full Ironman triathlon, multiple 70.3 Ironman triathlons, marathons, and ultramarathons, demonstrating resilience, endurance, and dedication—qualities that have been instrumental in my professional journey. These athletic pursuits highlight my commitment to setting and achieving ambitious goals, both in technology and life.

Skills

Software Architecture, Cloud & Infrastructure, Platform Modernisation, Engineering Leadership, DevOps, Data & AI

Regions covered

Singapore, France, New Zealand, United Kingdom, Asia-Pacific, Australia, Netherlands, United States, Europe, North America, South America, Germany, Canada

Industry experience

Not-for-profit, Fintech, Professional Services, SaaS, Education, Healthcare

At a glance

Juan brings hands-on experience across Software Architecture, Cloud & Infrastructure, Platform Modernisation, Engineering Leadership, DevOps, Data & AI. Available for engagements across Singapore, France, New Zealand, United Kingdom, Asia-Pacific, Australia, Netherlands, United States, Europe, North America, South America, Germany, Canada. Industry experience includes Not-for-profit, Fintech, Professional Services, SaaS, Education and 1 more.

How fractional CTO engagements with Juan work

Juan works on a fractional basis — typically one to three days a week for an agreed engagement length — so you get senior technical leadership without the cost or commitment of a full-time hire. Engagements commonly include technical due diligence, board reporting, engineering team leadership, technology strategy, architecture reviews, hiring support, and stepping in as interim CTO during a transition.