What originally drew you to this company 25 years ago?
So, the story begins when I joined a company called Hogart Sp. z o.o. The mission of Hogart was basically localization and implementation of third-party software solutions. RBP Payroll, developed by Robertson & Blums, was one of the packages offered by Hogart in its portfolio. At that time, I had some general experience in ERP systems, but I always wanted to focus more on HRIS. I was lucky to find this opportunity at Hogart and now dive deeper into it at AGroup.
What major turning points or events have shaped the company’s direction during your tenure?
It has always been a rollercoaster regarding our position and strength in the market. There have been good and bad times; we were big and small, successful and on the edge of bankruptcy. Over the years, there have been a few changes in the company’s management and ownership. I started in 1999 at Hogart sp. z o.o. After a couple of years, we split from Hogart and became part of the Hogart group under the label Hogart Data Center, eventually ending up in AGroup.
Can you share a defining moment in your career here that stands out as particularly rewarding or challenging?
The beginning of my career in the new field of HR and Payroll was difficult for me. I had no idea how complex it was and how much special knowledge it required. What I remember as particularly rewarding was the possibility to combine some basic programming skills in RBP programming with clients’ requirements in the field of payroll and HR. The ability to create reports, payroll items, etc., and immediately see the results of my work was a major factor that motivated me to do more and not get bored. Taking part in all project phases, from analysis to implementation, and being an analyst, developer, tester, user trainer, and documentation author was particularly rewarding in terms of knowledge and experience. Another turning point in my career was moving from project implementation to maintenance and working with clients up to today in this format.
What qualities have you noticed in the best leaders you’ve worked with here?
It has always been a combination of hard work, expertise, intelligence, and high social skills like honesty, friendship, and a good sense of humor.
What do you think is the company’s greatest strength, and how can it be leveraged further?
In my opinion, AGroup’s greatest strength is its employees. I have been working with many of them for many years, and we know each other very well. It is the friendly atmosphere and
working in a small team that have made me stay with this company for so long. Besides, it’s not only about the employees but also about the clients with whom I have been cooperating for many years. Our relationships are of a partnership nature. In this case, the saying “We are all in the same boat” applies.
How has your personal life intertwined with your work life here? Any special memories?
Because we work in a small team, our relationships remain semi-formal. My colleagues also have a long history of working in this company. For example, Gosia has been working here as long as I have, Michał for 10 years, and Przemek for about 15 years. Not to mention Yury Yanson, Igor Shulzenko, Aleksander Korshunov and Maxim Yazev. We share many company trips, events, and private meetings. In this way, private life is intertwined with work.
If your 25 years at the company were made into a movie, what would the title be?
It would have to be a movie with many twists, drama, horror, and miracles. Everything should be included. Maybe “Rocky Picture Horror Show.”
If you had to sum up your time here in three words, what would they be and why?
Maybe let’s put it like this:
Challenging: Because the work has pushed you to grow and develop new skills.
Rewarding: Due to the satisfaction and motivation you’ve gained from seeing the results of your efforts.
Collaborative: Reflecting the strong relationships and teamwork with both colleagues and clients.