Marko has been with ⋮IW for nearly 11 years. He has been with us from the start and has contributed to many successful projects. His desire to learn and grow led him to become an eCommerce Business Unit Manager. Read about his journey below.
Who is Marko?
I’ve always been interested in computer programs, especially web applications. I wondered how people create such fascinating things. Clicking a button and seeing something new appear always intrigued me. This curiosity led me to explore further and dive deep into the field. Twelve years ago, my interest in computers and programming inspired me to develop my first web application. That moment marked the beginning of my IT journey. Without any experience, the road to success was tough and challenging, like it is for every beginner. However, the thrill of seeing my first website live was unforgettable. That’s when I knew I wanted to work in this field for the rest of my life.
Over the years, I’ve worked with various technologies, not just PHP. Each one has contributed to my professional growth. I strongly believe that to be successful, you need to learn something new every day and have the courage to explore different technologies regularly.
My greatest challenge in IT has been project planning, client discussions, proposing ideas for outstanding value, and suggesting ways to outsmart competitors. Six years ago, ⋮IW gave me the opportunity to lead a project team. Starting with four people, we grew to eleven, and I eventually became a Business Unit Manager.
Today, as an eCommerce Business Unit Manager, I am proud to work with a team of professionals who are also my friends. Our supportive environment offers daily challenges and opportunities for growth, fostering a sense of family.
Why do you choose to stay in ⋮IW for more than 10 years now?
I’ve stayed at ⋮IW for so long because it feels like home. My colleagues have become friends. Together, we’ve faced many challenges, failures, and successes over the past decade. Whenever we struggle, I know someone has my back. I have full support from both the team and management. At ⋮IW, people take care of each other. The success of one is a success for all.
I see ⋮IW as a strong, renowned company, present on the market for over 16 years. It’s always willing to try new things, stay up-to-date with the latest technologies, and follow the latest IT standards while maintaining a family-like culture. That’s why I’m still here!
What do you consider to be your biggest challenge as a Business Unit Manager?
The biggest challenge as a Business Unit Manager is keeping my colleagues happy and motivated. This is crucial for achieving great success. Happy and motivated employees can accomplish anything!
Sometimes, we work on projects that might not be very interesting or challenging. During these times, a leader must motivate and encourage the team. Introducing a new, less common technology can help. Another way is to restructure the team, allowing more experienced employees to lead and mentor the less experienced ones.
I want to be close to my colleagues. It’s important to understand the person on the other side, as everyone has their own battles. Knowing their challenges helps build stronger relationships and enables treating people with empathy. Empathy is crucial in building a successful and strong team.
My key strengths are precision, attention to detail, and honesty. I try to bring these qualities to my team to help us perform better, complete work accurately, and set a good example.
How has COVID-19 affected eCommerce?
Digitalization is our new reality. The pandemic has pushed more companies to enter eCommerce, offering their products and services online.
Business owners with brick-and-mortar stores had to quickly adapt to the effects of COVID-19 by creating suitable eCommerce solutions. Today, over 80% of these business owners are transitioning online using available tools.
We have many platforms that support eCommerce solutions. Some are straightforward, others offer advanced features, and there are complex custom solutions for specific customer needs. Depending on the business, different solutions can be applied to bring additional value to the owners.
How do you manage to motivate your team in such challenging times?
Transparency is the greatest motivator in challenging times. We need to be honest and realistic about the situation, put all the cards on the table, and plan our actions together. When I do this, the team sees what we are facing, and we can plan and brainstorm together.
Listening to others, sharing their ideas with management, and working together to realize them builds confidence and a sense of value and appreciation.
I also don’t hesitate to roll up my sleeves and help with extra work. When my team sees me working alongside them, they know I value their work and want to assist, which keeps them motivated and helps them complete the job.
Who is Marko out of the office? What do you like to do in your spare time?
I am an adventurous person who loves to travel, especially with my wife. She is my biggest support and the light of my life.
Besides traveling, I enjoy cooking and trying different foods. In my spare time, I like to watch movies and TV shows, and I have a long list of them.
Professionally, I constantly think of ways to make my daily work easier. I investigate new tools or create proofs of concept to bring extra value and improve my work’s performance and accuracy.
If you want to get to know Marko more, you can register for his webinar on 14.10.2020 and ask him any questions that you might have about eCommerce.
