In this segment, we sit down with the inspiring individuals who make OMRT what it is. Over a cup of tea, we dive into their stories, experiences, and what makes OMRT more than just a workplace. From navigating career changes to finding a home in a new country, these conversations give us a glimpse into the lives of our team members and the vibrant culture that binds us all together.
Today, we’re chatting with Max, an architect-turned-software-developer, who shares his incredible journey from Russia to the Netherlands, the challenges he faced, and the reasons he calls OMRT his second home. Grab your tea, and let’s dive in!
Let’s start with a bit about yourself. What’s your background?
Max: I trained as an architect and worked in architecture for many years in Russia. My focus was mostly on facades, and I used tools like Grasshopper extensively. It’s a great tool that introduces many architects and designers to coding without needing to be full-on software developers. Over time, I found myself gravitating more towards software development, and eventually, I made the switch. At one point, I worked for a startup in Russia that was doing something similar to OMRT. That’s actually how I found OMRT, was researching competitors and came across them online. I remember thinking, “These guys are doing some really interesting things.” Later, I saw they had an open position, and I decided to apply.
And that’s when you made the move to the Netherlands. How did that process go?
Max: It wasn’t easy. By the time I applied, the war in Ukraine had started, and things in Russia were really tense. You could go to jail for speaking out against the war, and then they introduced mandatory conscription. I knew I had to leave. When OMRT made me an offer, I saw it as my chance to get out. But because I’d already left Russia, I couldn’t apply for my visa there, which you’re supposed to do in your home country. I moved to Kazakhstan and then to Serbia, where I started a business just to get residency there, and applied for my Dutch visa from Serbia. It was a long and complicated process, about three months in total. OMRT was incredibly supportive. Sanja, the office manager back then, really went above and beyond, working with Dutch immigration to find solutions.
That’s a lot to go through just to start a new job.
Max: Definitely. But once I got here, things started to fall into place. I arrived just before Christmas, and on my second day, the company was doing their annual presentations where everyone talks about their year. I had no idea what to say, so I just told the story of how I got here. It was surreal but memorable.
What’s your favorite part about working at OMRT?
Max: The culture. It’s such a fun and relaxed environment. One of the highlights is the “workation” we do every year. It’s called a workation, but let’s be honest: there’s no real work involved. It’s just a couple of days of partying in a nice place outside the Netherlands. Everyone unwinds and has a great time. Then there are the monthly social events. Last year, we did a cocktail-making workshop. A bartender taught us how to make proper cocktails, and, well, let’s just say things got a little out of hand. Everyone had a blast. Those moments make you realize how much more OMRT is than just a workplace.
The international team at OMRT is something that stands out. How has that been for you?
Max: It’s amazing. More than half the team is from abroad, so we all share the experience of being in a new country. That creates a unique bond. You’re not just colleagues, you become friends. Even people who’ve left the company still come back for events and stay in touch. That says a lot about the culture here.
How’s the work-life balance?
Max: It’s excellent. I love the hybrid working model. Some days I go to the office, and other days I work from home and spend time with my wife and dog. It’s the best of both worlds. Coming from architecture, where long nights and weekends are the norm, this feels like a much healthier way to work.
Any final thoughts on your experience at OMRT so far?
Max: Honestly, it’s the people and the atmosphere that stand out the most. The friendships I’ve made here and the fun we have - whether it’s at a workation, a social event, or just a regular day at the office, make OMRT more than just a job. It’s a place where you feel like you belong.