Welcome to this edition of Team Talk, where we spotlight Manja Kocet, our Lead Engineer at Comtrade Gaming. Since joining as a student in 2016, Manja has become integral to pioneering projects like the 'Backoffice' module, demonstrating profound growth and leadership. Today, we delve into her professional evolution, focusing on her innovative contributions, leadership style, and the balance she maintains between her career and personal life. Discover how her journey from academia to industry leadership exemplifies the drive and dedication that propel our company forward.
1. Manja, could you take us back to 2016 when you first joined Comtrade Gaming as a student? What motivated you to start your career with us, and how did you navigate the transition from academia to the professional world?
Since childhood, I've been captivated by technology, leading me to explore HTML and create websites from a young age. My formal education in Computer Science and Information Technology, coupled with attending Comtrade's EDIT summer school, paved the way for my entry into Comtrade Gaming. Initially hired as a developer for slot machine games using C++, my interest soon expanded to web applications. This shift in focus led me to Angular development, where I found my true passion and progressed to the role of Lead Engineer. Transitioning from academia to a professional setting felt natural, driven by my enduring passion for technology and continuous development.
2. Can you tell us about an exciting project you're currently working on? What's the project about, and what makes it significant for you and the team?
I’m currently working on a module for our 'Backoffice' product, which has grown from a small team of five to seventeen members, reflecting our expansion and increased scope. We've structured the project into focused modules that enhance our team's agility and ability to adapt. Effective communication is key in our collaboration, as we frequently shift between modules to meet the evolving needs of the project. This development is significant for us because it integrates many components into a coherent system that significantly impacts our customers and our company's operations. The success of this project provides us not only with professional fulfillment but also a sense of contributing to something larger and more impactful.
3. Leading the Angular team is no small feat. Can you share your philosophy on leadership and how you foster a culture of innovation and collaboration within your team?
Leading the Angular team involves more than technical skills; it requires a nuanced approach to leadership. I currently manage a dynamic team, size varying based on project demands, and have been a team manager for a five-member group for two years. My leadership philosophy is centered on valuing each team member, fostering a professional yet relaxed environment that motivates and appreciates everyone. We strengthen our bonds through informal gatherings like coffee breaks. A significant aspect of my role is effective task delegation while staying actively involved in development and providing technical support. I aim to cultivate a culture of innovation and collaboration, encouraging each team member to contribute towards our collective goals and their personal growth, balancing leadership with mentorship and technical engagement.
4. How do you balance your professional responsibilities with personal time, and what does this balance look like?
Maintaining a balance between my professional responsibilities and personal time is essential for my well-being and productivity. I adhere to a clear work schedule with defined start and end times. Post-work, I engage in sports at the gym to fully disconnect and mentally recharge. Additionally, I use my free time to enhance my technical skills through personal projects and online courses, fueling both my professional growth and personal interests. This balanced approach is essential for my overall well-being and success, as it allows me to be productive without burning out.
5. Lastly, for those just beginning their careers or looking to step into leadership roles, what advice would you share based on your own journey and experiences?
Comtrade Gaming is an ideal launchpad for new graduates, offering numerous opportunities that allow young, enthusiastic minds to thrive. For those aspiring to leadership, being proactive is essential - create your opportunities and prioritize excellent communication skills to build effective relationships. Embrace criticism and feedback as tools for growth and improvement and acknowledge your mistakes as learning opportunities. Persistence is crucial; success demands hard work and the ability to overcome challenges. Lastly, maintaining a healthy work-life balance is vital for long-term success and personal satisfaction.
Thank you for joining us in this insightful discussion with Manja. Through her narrative, we've seen the significant impact of her work on projects like the 'Backoffice' module and her effective leadership within our Angular team. Manja's story is a testament to the role passion and commitment play in transforming technical challenges into achievements. Her balanced approach to professional and personal life continues to inspire and shape the next generation at Comtrade Gaming. Stay tuned for more inspiring stories from our team.