Grupo Multi, an enterprise specializing in English language franchise courses, originated from the observations of Brazilian entrepreneur Carlos Wizard Martins. After identifying a disparity between his earnings as a computer systems analyst and his income from private language tutoring, he established the company that Pearson eventually acquired in 2013.
Formative Years and Education
Born in 1956 in Curitiba, Brazil, Martins joined The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints at age thirteen. His initial proficiency in English resulted from interactions with church missionaries. At eighteen, he moved to Newark, New Jersey, to work. Later, he relocated to the United States with his wife, Vania Pimentel, to pursue higher education. He earned a degree in Computer Science and Statistics from Brigham Young University.
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Following his return to Brazil, Martins initially worked as a computer systems analyst. Realizing the high demand for English language instruction, he launched the Wizard brand. His business strategy involved segmenting the language market by creating a customized methodology specifically designed to motivate executives and other professional students. He detailed this approach during a 2015 interview for the Creating Emerging Markets project at Harvard Business School.
Religious Service and Publications
Martins has balanced his business career with roles as a priest and writer. He served a mission for his church in Portugal and held the position of bishop. His leadership roles within the church include serving as president of the Campinas Brazil Castelo Stake and the Brazil João Pessoa Mission between 2001 and 2005. He has also authored books, including Vencendo a Própria Crise in 2002 and the bestseller Desperte o milionário que há em você in 2012.
Fast facts
- Born: 1956, Curitiba, Brazil
- Education: Brigham Young University
- Spouse: Vania Pimentel
- Occupations: Entrepreneur, priest, writer
- Notable Business: Grupo Multi
- Major Exit: Pearson acquisition in 2013
- Religion: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
Questions readers ask
What is the primary business associated with Carlos Wizard Martins?
He founded Grupo Multi, a company that offers franchises for English language courses.
What subjects did Martins study at university?
He earned a degree in Computer Science and Statistics from Brigham Young University.
Achievements
- Educated at Brigham Young University
