Petra Smits, technical project manager and team lead
When I started working at Merapar, I already knew the owner and many of the employees from a previous job. Working with these people felt natural from the beginning. It truly was like coming back home!
WHY MERAPAR?
I was used to a market that created and sold IT products; products that fit many companies’ needs. I like that Merapar is different; here, we take that extra step for our clients. We solve problems with solutions that are tailor-made. Every project is different, which makes it a nice challenge for my team and myself. I love finding out what the underlying problem actually is. That way I can help the client figure out the best way to tackle it. We think along with our customers and really go that extra mile. That makes us unique.
RESPONSIBILITIES AND CHALLENGES
As a technical project manager, I take care of my team, client and project. I’m responsible for picking projects that are fun, challenging and suitable for my team. I realise that smart people want and need to be challenged, but I also need to think about the wants and needs of our clients. That’s why I try to find a balance between jobs that are too easy and jobs that are too difficult.
Every single project is unique and new for me and my team. That’s what keeps our work exciting; every client has its own set of requirements. This doesn’t pressure me; I see it as a challenge. We create simple solutions for difficult problems. That’s our strength.
WOMEN IN TECH
The world of IT is still quite a man’s world. You can see that here at Merapar too. I personally don’t mind this at all. My co-workers know my strengths and weaknesses and treat me the same as everyone else. They appreciate me for my actions, not for my gender. It’s all about what you contribute to the company. I do have a strong personality. I’m a go-getter. And even though I’m experienced in this work field, the cases I tackle are never easy. But that’s what keeps my work exciting!
GREAT WORK BECAUSE OF TERRIFIC PEOPLE
To perform optimally, we work in teams. Therefore, team spirit is very prominent at Merapar. We work with people we know and are aware of each other’s strengths. This gives us a flying start with every project. Our people get together often. We even make trips to Poland, to connect with our Polish team members. Different teams also work together to achieve the best possible outcome.
Of course, I love the diversity and responsibilities of my job. But the people who surround me make it special. My coworkers all work just as hard and there’s no hierarchy. We don’t just enjoy each other’s company; we also learn from each other. This way, Merapar grows naturally. I’m proud of that.
LOOKING FOR A CHALLENGE?
If you would like to know how Merapar will challenge you to grow as a professional, we’d love to have a chat! Email us at info@merapar.com or apply directly on a specific career opportunity.
