From JS back-end developer to team leader at Gauss

Meet Saša - JS back-end developer who has been part of the Gauss team for five years. We proudly can say he recently got the role of team leader and technical project manager.

Saša is very focused on solving challenging business solutions

Why did you join Gauss and what has kept you here?

I came to Gauss through its academy to train new web and mobile developers. It was at a time when I was unemployed and when I decided to make a significant turnaround in my professional development.

As I was in financial trouble, the director of Gauss, Mr. Ivan Lozančić, came out to meet me and enabled me to repay my education at the Gauss Academy by volunteering on real projects. So after the training, I got the opportunity to work on the right project right away. I showed up quickly, paid my tuition, and signed my first contract.

What still keeps me here are the great people who make the atmosphere pleasant to work with and every problem solvable. The directors are approachable and take care of their people, who are always there for us. As well as the possibility of continuous improvement and advancement and work on large projects.

What advice do you have for prospective Gauss candidates?

I can tell potential candidates that Gauss is definitely a company where you can reach your full potential. In my professional development, I have gone through many firms, many different industries, and with my experience, I can testify that Gauss is a company to be desired.

Here you will have the opportunity to work with people who, despite all their obligations and deadlines, always have time to help and transfer knowledge and make it easier for new people to take their first steps. You will have the opportunity to work on large projects with several technologies, and indeed everyone will be able to find their own place where they will further improve.

Let's not lie. It is certain that honey and milk do not flow here and that we also have our shortcomings. However, everyone's voice is appreciated here. Each team member can significantly contribute to the team's development through their work, which is not a practice in a large number of companies. Hierarchy is respected, but no one is left out of the collective.

What has been your favourite project at Gauss?

My favourite project is the one I’m working on right now. It’s a large internal project, which should soon see the light of day. It’s a business application that covers much of the business. Working on this project has allowed me to learn many new technologies and hone my knowledge, but it also offers an opportunity to learn a lot more. Such projects involving many technologies are a real challenge for every developer because every day is a new challenge.

Saša posing for this first official photo session with Gauss

What is your proudest moment at Gauss?

Every project I have participated in, which has been successfully delivered to the client and used by users worldwide, makes me proud. Proud because I made something that made someone else happy in any way.

A particularly proud moment is when the management appointed me as one of the team leaders. It is the realisation that I am doing a good job, contributing to the development and success of the team, and that my work is being valued.

How do you spend your time outside of the office?

Outside the office, I spend most of my time with family and friends. Depending on the amount of free time, there is always time for something. I like to watch a good movie, go out with friends for a drink, as well as play a good game.

My hobbies are mostly creative. Depending on the time and needs, I like to make a model, make something with my own hands. Lately, I’ve been trying to connect my passion for programming and creativity by getting into robotics. But due to some personal obligations, it is currently on hold. I hope not for long.

I always look to spend part of my time on professional development because it is essential in our industry. Technologies are evolving every day, and if you keep up with the times, time will overtake you. Besides, programming is my passion, so it’s not hard to combine comfort with practical.

How do you define success in life?

Some will say that success is making millions and securing financial stability. Some will say that success is creating something that generations will benefit from. Some will say that success is creating something that will make our daily lives easier.

Personally, I think the greatest success in life is when you are surrounded by good people who love you and when you are happy and content with yourself every day. When you can look in the mirror every morning with a smile on your face.

Brave winter walk

Are you an iPhone or Android type of person?

I don't have any particular preferences. I have used both types, and each has its advantages and disadvantages. I am currently an Android type.

What did you want to be when growing up?

Ever since the fifth grade of elementary school and my first contacts with programming and computers, my great desire was to become a programmer. Unfortunately, life circumstances took me in a different direction.

I trained to be a construction technician. Professional development went through several industry branches, trade, telecommunications, catering, and finally, the construction itself.

Programming has always been there somewhere. My first and unrequited love. I’ve always tried to come back, but it's pretty hard when those daily commitments occupy me. But I didn’t give up until I got the right opportunity. Now I am finally where I should have always been.

What's your motto or personal mantra?

Live life as if every day is your last and always listen to your heart first and then others. Time goes at a deadly pace, and as you turn around, years and years are left behind. Don't regret what you could have done in 10, 15, 20 years. Do it now if your heart tells you it's right.