When did you start working at Kin + Carta?
I started during the COVID-19 pandemic in September 2020. I actually applied in March but there was a delay due to the current events in the country. I was surprised when I saw the job ad for Employee Еxperience, it was not common at the time for companies to have this position. Once I opened the website and saw then-Melon’s values I was captivated: Be Nice, Be Smart, Make Things Happen. In 2021, we became Kin + Carta.
How did you first find out about Melon (now Kin + Carta)?
I saw the job advertisement and got curious about the employee engagement segment in the job description because this is what my thesis was about.
What was your previous experience and education?
I graduated with a degree in Organizational and Social Psychology. Before I started at Kin + Carta, I was an HR Generalist and was mostly responsible for the soft skills training of my colleagues.
How has your role evolved since you first started at Kin + Carta?
I began as an Employee Experience Specialist and gradually when people needed more structured training and skills upgrade I transitioned to Learning and Development Lead.
Now I am responsible for the career development and all training needs across South East Europe (SEE).
What is it like to be a career development leader?
I keep in touch with all team leads, we analyze and decide on the company’s training needs. Based on this data, it is my job to organize soft skills and technical training for our Kin across SEE. Almost all our soft skills training is conducted in-house, but sometimes we rely on online training platforms.
You help everyone else with their own career path, how does the company support yours?
I’ve learned a lot, but one of the key things so far is to be braver. The team support has a huge impact. I took advantage of Kin + Carta’s coaching program – it is aimed at middle management roles within the company led by external coaches. This initiative followed our Leadership program which is broader.
How do you support individuals in overcoming career-related obstacles or setbacks?
Our company provides financial support for any type of training. This applies to course, conferences, and events.
What role do you believe ongoing professional development plays in a person's career growth, and how do you encourage it?
Every team has a different approach. Currently, we have a craft lead role in each of our teams. These people are responsible for the technical skills development of their teammates.
What is the most challenging part of your job?
To find the balance and let things happen. We build structured processes, and then there still are some things that need to happen naturally and organically.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
Meeting my colleagues - this is the perfect opportunity to understand their needs and what I can do to assist their career development. This helps me see their point of view and better comprehend their requirements. Sometimes two people in the same situation have completely different needs. Sometimes after a conversation with colleagues, I feel inspired. Once I came back from one of ALI's (a well recognized rock band in Bulgaria, with 5 out of 6 members also colleagues at Kin + Carta Sofia office) concerts just flying, thinking how cool it is that Kin + Carta gathers so many diverse people who are good not only at their work, but also at many other traits. When I met Orlin I was impressed because he’s not just an IOS developer, but also works as a university professor in Astrophysics. Working with people, with many different interests and skills motivates me to grow even further.
How do you stay motivated and engaged at work?
I see purpose and meaning in what I do . I feel satisfaction upon completion of a big project. The idea that I contribute even a little to someone’s finding a better way to do their job makes me feel accomplished.
How do you usually spend your free time?
I love traveling and going to the beach. A tip from me: Travels are fulfilling only when not planned.
