Welcome to a special edition of our Beyond Code series, where we delve into the personal and professional journeys of Anthill’s dedicated employees. In this edition we focus on the Scrum methodology, a cornerstone of Agile project management that plays a pivotal role in our operations. Today, we’re privileged to hear from Spas Atanasov, Scrum Master at Anthill, who has over 15 years of experience in the IT field.
In this interview, Spas discusses his career journey, his role at Anthill, how he stays current with industry trends, and gives us a glimpse into his personal interests. Through his words, we get a unique perspective on the life and work of a Scrum Master, shedding light on the challenges and rewards of this crucial role.
Q: Tell us about you and your career journey as a Scrum Master.
Spas Atanasov: My career as a Scrum Master has been shaped by my hands-on experience in delivering large-scale, bank-wide digital transformation projects using Agile methodologies. My deep understanding of system and business analysis, coupled with my ability to manage software development and adopt technological innovations, has enabled me to contribute significantly to the digital transformation of traditional banking and fintech companies. I’m a motivated professional with a keen understanding of business results and customer needs and a strong interest in innovations and new technologies. I pride myself on being a team player and a compelling storyteller.
Q: Can you describe your role at Anthill and what a typical day looks like for you?
Spas Atanasov: As a Scrum Master at Anthill, my typical day is filled with a variety of responsibilities and activities aimed at supporting the Scrum team and ensuring the smooth functioning of the Agile development process. My day begins with a daily standup meeting, followed by team support activities, and concludes with addressing impediments in addition to continuously improving both my performance and that of the team.
Q: Please describe your job in a way that a 3-year-old would understand it.
Spas Atanasov: Imagine you and your friends are building a big, colorful tower with blocks. The Scrum Master is like the leader of the game, ensuring everyone knows their role and that the game is fair and enjoyable for all. The Scrum Master helps everyone work together and if there’s a problem, they’re there to help and explain things in a simple way. They ensure everyone gets a turn and encourages perseverance when things don’t go as planned. They also communicate with others who are interested in your tower, ensuring everyone understands what you’re building and helping you get the resources you need.
Q: How do you stay current with the latest technologies and trends in software development?
Spas Atanasov: I utilize platforms like LinkedIn Learning to stay abreast of the latest technologies and trends in software development. This allows me to bring innovative ideas and practices to my work, enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of our Scrum team.
Q: What was your motivation to join Anthill’s team?
Spas Atanasov: I was drawn to Anthill by the team spirit, the exciting projects, and the opportunity to step out of my comfort zone. The dynamic and innovative environment at Anthill offered a platform where I could grow professionally while contributing to impactful projects.
Q: How does Anthill support your career growth and development?
Spas Atanasov: Anthill fosters career growth and development through upskilling programs and personal examples set by the company’s management. This supportive environment encourages continuous learning and professional development, enabling me and my colleagues to excel in our roles.
Q: How does Anthill encourage and support you to pursue your own interests?
Spas Atanasov: Anthill promotes an open-door policy from management and encourages transparent and honest feedback, allowing me to pursue my interests.
Q: Can you share a project that you are currently working on that you find particularly exciting or challenging, and why?
Spas Atanasov: I’m currently working as a Scrum Master for two teams for Allane Mobility Group, the largest car leasing company in Western Europe. We’re deeply involved in IT modernization projects using the latest AWS technologies, which is both exciting and challenging. The complexity of these projects pushes us to continually innovate and adapt, making each day a new learning experience.
Q: Last but not least, what do you enjoy doing in your spare time?
Spas Atanasov: In my spare time, I indulge in my love for books and music, and I also enjoy cooking. It’s a wonderful way to unwind and express my creativity. These hobbies allow me to relax and recharge, ready to tackle the next challenge at work.