Team lead journey: A decade of inspiring progress and commitment

We proudly celebrate and honor team members who have dedicated ten years or more to ProductDock. It is our pleasure to have them as part of our team, highlighting their inspiring journey of improvement and commitment.

This time, we had a conversation with our team lead, Milan Janković. His calm spirit and patience make him an incredible team leader. We are happy we were a part of his first decade of inspiring progress and commitment.

What do you like most about your role?

In my current role as a team lead, what I enjoy most is helping others grow. It is really rewarding to see talented people develop, and I am glad to be even a small part of that.

What is your biggest challenge as a Software Engineer at ProductDock?

The biggest challenge at ProductDock is working on a variety of projects – some that I may be familiar with and others where everything is entirely new. The key challenge here is adapting to each situation and making the most of it because, ultimately, challenges are what drive our growth and improvement.

How did you grow at ProductDock? Tell us about your journey.

I began as a software developer working on an application used by a local hospital at the time. It was a small project reserved for newcomers. Then came one small startup project which lasted several years. It was a small company, but it exposed me to a variety of technologies and experiences.

Then, for a couple of years, I worked as a frontend developer for a big automotive company. This gave me valuable experience in the corporate world, so I consider it the most important experience in my career up to that point. For the past couple of years, I have been working on my current project for a large banking software provider as a frontend developer and team lead. On this project, clients recognized my efforts and introduced me to this role. It has also been the project that has given me the most experience so far.

What is your best ProductDock memory?

The summer event in Dubrovnik which is hard to beat. :)

What is the secret of staying in the same company for more than 10 years? 

I think the key is feeling valued and respected. You also need the opportunity to improve constantly.

Share a book list that helps your expertise with short explanations why you recommend that.

Elegant Objects (Yegor Bugayenko) – Even though I was experienced when I read this book, it gave me a fresh perspective on object-oriented programming. 

Design Patterns (Eric Freeman) – Once you gain some experience in software engineering, you might want to add structure to your code and leverage best design practices. This book provides a solid foundation for that.
Domain-Driven Design (Eric Evans) – A unique approach to modeling long-lasting software within a large organization. I also got a whole new take on software engineering while reading it.

How do you like the projects you have worked on at ProductDock?

I like working on projects for large organizations, as they usually provide the best opportunities to learn and grow. I’m not as fond of startups. :)

What do you appreciate the most in teamwork and why?

I enjoy daily work and like working from the same office – communication is way better. I also like helping others and knowing that there is always someone there for me. Within a team, everybody is supported, and no one is left alone with any challenges. I can also plan vacations, knowing there is someone to handle whatever comes up.

Which app do you find helpful?

Calendar – I use it a lot, and also slack :)

What are the three things you like the most at ProductDock?

I like our offices in Bosnia. I enjoy working from the office, and this is why this part is important to me. Generally, I am based in Doboj, but from time to time I go to the Banja Luka office and work from there, which gives me an opportunity to break from my usual routine. Another thing I like is my colleagues. The work atmosphere is really good, and I enjoy daily rituals like having coffee at noon. The third thing I like is the fact that the company cares about our improvement by providing a clear roadmap for growth for every individual.

Where would you go if you could visit anywhere you have never been and why?

I’d visit the USA, perhaps take a road trip. I just like the fact everything is big there – wide and long roads, expansive parking lots, and so on. I’d love to experience it firsthand.

What do you do to relax in your free time? How do you recharge your batteries?

I usually go and ride a motorcycle. I’m also into bushcraft, so I sometimes go for a walk, build a fire and cook something outdoors.

If you could pick up a new skill in an instant, what would it be and why?

Not procrastinating – sometimes I tend to do it when there’s a lot of work to do, and I really hate it.

What keeps you motivated?

My family. I have two kids now, and I always think of them whenever I need motivation to get through the day.

What does your break at work look like?

I’m usually at the office, so we typically go and get a coffee at a local cafe.

Greet your work bestie or send a message to all PD crew members. 

To all the PD crew, keep up the good work, love you all , and earn your 10-year badge. :)