Ilya Aristov, Head of DataArt Cyprus: Demand for IT services is growing globally

The Head of DataArt Cyprus, Ilya Aristov, talks about what sets the company apart from its competitors, shares his view of doing business from Cyprus, and explains why the international IT sector is expanding.

Give us some basic information about DataArt

DataArt is a global software engineering firm, headquartered in New York City. We employ over 6,000 professionals in more than 20 locations throughout the US, Europe, the Middle East, and Latin America. Our clients include major global brands like Unilever, Priceline, Ocado Technology, and Flutter Entertainment, among others.

When did the company begin operating in Cyprus?

DataArt Cyprus was established in May 2022. It was one of the smoothest launches for us. Today we have two offices: one in Larnaca and another in Nicosia, with about 50 employees on the island overall.

What do you believe sets the company apart from your competitors?

There are many things. For instance, our People First approach, our staffing, and talent management. We have a synergy of best practices across different domains – we work in Finance, Healthcare, Media, Retail & Logistics, Travel & Hospitality. And last but not least – and I do mean it – it’s our technology excellence.

How has your experience of doing business in Cyprus been and would you recommend the island to other foreign interest companies looking to relocate?

I’d definitely recommend Cyprus as a great place for relocation. Its climate, food, people, tax regulations, location, great airport hub and diversity with so many nationalities under one roof -- I find it all very attractive here. Moreover, we’ve got great support from Invest Cyprus, which helped us with our relocation and building our network here, and still keeps an eye on how we are doing. We feel very taken care of!

What is your view of your sector (locally and on a global level) as it is today and what is its potential for growth?

If we’re talking about IT, then I surely only see a growing demand. Nothing has changed – even layoffs from large technology companies haven’t reduced the need for IT specialists. Locally, I don’t foresee a huge demand for our services but we are in negotiations with several companies. On a global level, the situation is a bit different and demand is growing.

Where do you see your company five years from now? Are there any immediate plans that you can reveal to us, for example, few new products, services, or further expansion?

That’s a good question! I’ve been with the company for the last eight years and it will be exciting to still be around for the next five! I see us bigger, better, even more professional, but still the same – DataArt’s culture is the most important thing.

How great a focus do you put on CSR and being part of the local community?

This topic is important both to me and to our company in general. We participate in local initiatives and we want to bring our own ideas and implement them. However, we also need to move at the same pace as the local community, so ‘slowly-slowly’!

This interview first appeared in the March edition of GOLD magazine. Click here to view it.