Employee Profile - Loïc Marin, Web Solutions Architect

Member of our development team since June 2021, Loïc Marin has over a decade of experience in development, digital architecture design, and technical project management. We met with him to find out what motivates and drives him as a Tinker!

In a few words, how would you describe your role and your daily routine?

The word 'changing' sums up my daily routine quite well, and it's precisely this aspect that I find most enjoyable in my role! I have to switch between several functions throughout the day, including development, analysis, and sales. However, my main tasks remain supporting and coaching our development team.

As a Web Solutions Architect, it is my responsibility to ensure that our processes and work methods are cutting-edge and constantly evolving. And believe me, there's always something to do in this regard! Whether it's in terms of security, quality assurance, testing, performance, or reusability, there is always room for improvement.

In addition to this continuous improvement work, I collaborate with the sales department during new bids to identify the most suitable technologies and platforms to meet our clients' objectives and needs.

Finally, I also step in when necessary to facilitate the work of our analysts on slightly more complex projects. Whether it's on the client interface or internally, I act as a bridge between the technical and non-technical resources of a project.

According to you, what are the skills and qualities that a person must demonstrate to occupy a position like yours?

I see several... The first point (and probably the most obvious) is to have a good mental flexibility to be able to switch from one project to another within the same day. Let me tell you that it's not always easy, especially when your role, tasks, and approach vary each time. I admit that I've had a few brain knots after some busy days!

Humility is another important quality for this position. No one has all the answers, and in a technical field like ours, there are always multiple solutions to a problem. That's why it's important for me to look beyond my initial idea. Experience has taught me that the best solutions often come from collaboration, and each team member's perspective can make all the difference. In short, when I start on a project, I always keep in mind Socrates' maxim: 'I know that I know nothing'.

As a final point, I would say that having a good dose of pedagogy is essential. Since the decisions I make impact many people, I must be able to explain each of these ideas to a wide range of stakeholders. This naturally includes those who have no technical knowledge. So, I have to simplify these concepts and be creative in my explanations, whether by using metaphors or drawings!

What have you learned during your years at Tink?

I've learned, above all, to rely on more people. In fact, I was often used to making decisions on my own before. But I can tell you that has changed since I became a Tinker! I find that Tink, and especially the development center, provides me with exceptional support and a great environment. We're not afraid of debates and the clash of ideas, and everyone is willing to get involved, whether it's on the side of leadership or new recruits.

What do you appreciate about Tink, and what makes you stay?

Without a doubt, it's the talent of the people who work here! I had already been in the web world for over 10 years when I joined Tink, and despite all that experience, I was quickly impressed by the truly sharp skills of certain individuals in their respective fields, whether in the development team, cybermetrics, analysis, or DevOps... It's very rewarding for me to be surrounded by such brilliant colleagues!

It's often said that if you're the smartest person in the room, you're in the wrong room... Let's just say that I really feel like I'm in the right room at Tink!

What is your proudest professional accomplishment?

I am particularly proud of being involved in efforts to prepare for the future and further strengthen our development team. We have enhanced the team and nurtured its growth around solid practices and motivating projects. Of course, I wasn't alone in this rebuilding work, but I contributed significantly, and I am very proud to see the results today! We now have an even more diverse, expert, and collaborative team.

How would you describe the work atmosphere at Tink?

I find the atmosphere quite relaxed. There is also a certain level of transparency at Tink that is very pleasant on a daily basis. If a project is not going well, we don't hesitate to discuss it and find solutions together. Instead of trying to blame someone, we work collaboratively to address the challenges and keep moving forward. We don't try to hide the truth by sweeping the problem under the rug, which fosters healthy and stress-free relationships among us.

For you, working at Tink means having the opportunity to...?

Be challenged! As I mentioned earlier, I often used to be the sole technical reference in my teams before joining Tink. So, the decisions I made were not really questioned. However, when I arrived at Tink, I met many people who understood the issues, the ins and outs of our technological choices, which encourages debates and new ideas. It allows me to grow professionally and learn continuously from my colleagues.

What advice would you give to future employees in your field?

Be yourself! Too many companies seek to hire developers who can do it all, who have seen it all, and who have experience in all technologies. Such unrealistic expectations have a detrimental effect on many young developers who feel compelled to present themselves as geniuses who can do everything. However, it is much wiser for a company to hire experts who know their limits, strengths, and weaknesses than to surround themselves with people who are afraid to displease. After all, developers are the foundation of a healthy company and should have the space to express their opinions on a project. That's what we strive to do every day within our development team.