How would you describe working in Technology for Viking?
I’ve been a programmer since the ’90s and worked for a number of different types of companies but never felt as much an integral part of the company as I do at Viking. At Viking, technology is valued and celebrated. Those in technology are viewed as partners, people who can collaborate to come up with solutions for problems and open new avenues for analysis and for improving processes. This makes me feel motivated and challenged to grow and improve.
What’s the first word that comes to mind when you think of working at Viking?
“Collaboration.” The word is used a lot, but at Viking it’s truly baked into the culture. Everyone is supportive of one another and works together to make things better for everyone. Viking is a world class asset management firm filled with individuals at the top of their game, but they’re always open to new ideas and feedback. Technology is invited to collaborate on interesting projects in ways that are strategically stimulating, and not just viewed as a necessary cost center.
What do you feel makes the culture of Viking so unique?
At Viking, it’s not just about rewarding the stars at the top. The focus is on the whole team and how every role contributes to Viking’s success. There’s a philosophy of working together to bring everyone up that suffuses the entire organization. When we deliver big projects, regardless of how visible they are to end users, everyone involved is recognized and appreciated.
HOW Are you able to have fun and contribute to the culture?
The firm has a strong social bent, with the Foundation grants and service events throughout the year where we’re encouraged to focus on helping others. I’m also an amateur musician and I enjoy baking – quality of life is important to me. The company is very receptive and encourages me to find ways to make it a happy working environment. For example, I have organized Vikings to bring in baked goods to celebrate ‘Pi Day’ and Mardi Gras, and I streamed bread making tutorials during the pandemic.