Jose Halago’s 10-year journey at GCX is a testament to the power of adaptability, trust, and a customer-first approach. From his early days as an engineer to his evolution into a Sales Director managing key accounts across the UAE, Qatar, and beyond, Jose has consistently demonstrated a unique ability to align technical expertise with business growth.
Motivated by the opportunity to support customers in achieving their goals, Jose has built strong, trust-based relationships that not only drive revenue but also inspire loyalty and success. His story reflects the values of perseverance, teamwork, and leadership that define GCX’s culture.
1. Jose Halago, could you share some insights into your background and how you came to join GCX?
My career has evolved gradually, shaped by both technical experience and a growing understanding of the business side of the industry. With a Bachelor’s degree in Electronics Engineering and 24 years in telecom, I started my journey as a telecom/network engineer, gaining hands-on experience in areas like project implementation, network design, and optimization.
After nearly 11 years in engineering, I had the chance to transition into product management, where I learned how technical development aligns with business needs. Collaborating with the sales team provided valuable opportunities to build lasting relationships with customers and deepen my understanding of the industry.
In October 2014, I was fortunate to be offered a sales role at GCX, which felt like a natural progression given my technical background and product management experience. I have been with GCX for more than 10 years, marking my longest tenure with any company. I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the company’s growth and to work with so many talented individuals. This chapter has truly been the most rewarding of my career.
2. What motivates you in your role at GCX, and how do you maintain your inspiration?
What motivates me is the chance to support customers in achieving their goals, knowing that each successful sale contributes to their success. Sales, at its core, is about creating a win-win situation — when I can meet a customer’s needs, we both benefit. Building trust with each customer is central to my approach; it’s earned by genuinely understanding their needs and offering tailored solutions that add value. Each achievement is also a reminder of the value of ongoing personal and professional development, motivating me to continuously improve and grow in my role.
3. Jose Halago, is there a specific project or achievement at GCX that you are particularly proud of?
As a member of the sales team, I consider each sale an achievement, and I am always humbled by the recognition I receive from my management and colleagues. One standout accomplishment to me is the substantial revenue growth I generated for a key customer. When I reflect on how I was hired with the goal of driving results for this account, it brings me great satisfaction to have fulfilled that objective. I’ll always remember how one of my clients joked, ‘We will never buy from you,’ which later changed to, ‘We only buy from GCX because of you.’ This success inspires me to strive for even greater accomplishments in my everyday work.
4. How do you approach challenges and overcome obstacles in your work, Jose Halago?
In sales, meeting targets is always a challenge, but I focus on building strong, trust-based relationships and a customer-first approach. By offering tailored solutions, being transparent, and keeping my promises, I ensure that every customer feels valued. The real test, however, comes during service issues, where I see an opportunity to truly make a difference.
These moments allow me to demonstrate our exceptional support and fulfilling our commitments. While every product or service has its value, it’s the ongoing dedication that drives long-term customer loyalty. This success isn’t all mine, its backed by the entire GCX team, from sales support to product, provisioning, engineering, and operations. I am extremely grateful to such a strong team and for the invaluable support provided.”
5. Jose Halago, what role do your colleagues and team members play in your success at GCX?
When I joined GCX and transitioned into my sales role, I was warmly welcomed by my colleagues, which truly made a difference. Their supportive and inclusive attitude allowed me to settle in quickly, and the relationships we built from day one made me feel like an integral part of the team. The collaborative environment, combined with a shared commitment to maintaining a healthy work-life balance, has been crucial to my success. It’s not just about professional growth; it’s also about prioritizing my personal well-being. The unwavering support from my team has been a key driver, fuelling both my individual achievements and our collective success at GCX.
6. Are there any mentors or individuals who have had a significant impact on your career here?
My line manager, Mr. Vineet Verma, has played a crucial role in shaping my career at GCX. His leadership is both strategic and insightful, providing clear direction while encouraging independent thought. I particularly admire his intelligence and methodical approach to challenges, coupled with his humility, as he remains open to others’ ideas and feedback. This approach has served as a valuable framework for refining my own skills and decision-making. He is also one of the key reasons I have had the privilege of being with GCX for the past 10 years.
7. Jose Halago, how has your role evolved since joining GCX, and how have you grown as a professional?
I began at GCX as a Sales Manager, responsible for managing clients in the UAE, Bahrain, and Pakistan. Being new to sales, I encountered a steep learning curve, but through perseverance, I secured my first major deal and steadily grew my revenue portfolio. I was then tasked with managing one of the largest accounts at Qatar (in place of Bahrain), which presented an exciting challenge and gave me the chance to step out of my comfort zone while cultivating new relationships.
With consistent effort, I expanded my portfolio, an achievement I take great pride in, ultimately leading to my promotion to Sales Director. Over the past 10 years, I have refined my strategic thinking, decision-making, and relationship-building abilities. These skills have been pivotal in my growth, shaping me into a confident and dynamic professional.
8. Jose Halago, what advice would you offer to new employees or those striving to excel in their careers at GCX?
Approach your work with kindness, as it’s a powerful tool for building trust and developing strong relationships with colleagues and clients. A positive attitude, paired with a proactive, ‘can-do’ mindset, will set you apart. Embracing challenges with initiative helps you grow and learn new things. Always seek opportunities to improve, stay open to feedback, and be adaptable to change—these qualities will help you grow both personally and professionally. GCX is a great place to work and provides ample learning opportunity at every level, provided you are ready to take up the challenge.