Staff Spotlight – Francho García

 

 

Welcome to our enlightening Q&A series, where we have the pleasure of showcasing the exceptional talents within Sparta. Today, our focus is on Francho García, whose remarkable journey spans over two decades in the industry. Starting as a developer and advancing through roles at ABB Power Technology, Francho honed his expertise by developing applications across diverse business domains, fostering exponential growth in his skills. Let’s delve further into Francho’s story, exploring his valuable insights, dedication to enhancing team efficiency and well-being, and discovering his passions beyond the professional realm.

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN WITH THE COMPANY?

I have been at Sparta since January of this year.

CAN YOU EXPLAIN YOUR ROLE?

I am the Team Manager of the Red Team. In summary, the role of the Team Manager involves ensuring the fulfilment and achievement of the Product Manager’s proposals by the end of each sprint. Additionally, it involves steering the team to prevent any collapse or deviation from our objectives.

HOW DID YOU GET STARTED IN THE INDUSTRY?/CAN YOU GIVE ME A RUNDOWN OF YOUR CAREER PATH UP UNTIL THIS POINT?

I’ve been in the industry for over 20 years, primarily starting as a developer and dedicating many years to that role. My tenure at ABB Power Technology, a multinational corporation, spanned 16 years, providing me with opportunities to work across various global locations. During my time there, I developed numerous applications spanning the entire business cycle, from the Sales department to the factory floor.

Following this, I took a sabbatical and ventured into consultancy at Interacso. In this role, I held positions as a Product Manager, Scrum Master, Team Manager, and Developer. Collaborating with my team, I had the rewarding experience of developing an app for a Nuclear Power Station. Additionally, I contributed to the digitalisation efforts of a logistics company from its inception. However, balancing managerial responsibilities and development proved overwhelming.

Deciding to focus more on management, I found my way to Sparta, which aligns perfectly with my aspirations.

WHAT’S ONE THING PEOPLE DON’T KNOW ABOUT YOU THAT YOU WOULD BE SURPRISED TO FIND OUT

I practice martial arts and, before the pandemic, I placed third in the Spanish championship. Martial arts have always been a part of my life, not just for physical health but also for its spiritual aspects, which I apply both personally and in my work life.

I also have a fondness for Latin dances, although I’ve never participated in any competitions here 😉

As for the most interesting project at Sparta, given my tenure of less than a year, I’d highlight initiating a new team and completing our first vertical. This project involved creating a new architecture, and it was a challenging yet commendable achievement for the entire team.

 

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE OUR COMPANY CULTURE?

I would summarise our company culture in one word: meritocracy. You can’t even imagine the number of great professionals that Sparta has. I have not met a company in which the technical knowledge and human capacity is so great. Everyone actively participates to move forward together. There is no one who does not contribute something to achieve our objectives. And they do it because they are like that. It’s something amazing. But Sparta also recognises this work and makes it possible by applying the values it has.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE PART OF WORKING AT OUR COMPANY?

The most fulfilling aspect of my work is knowing that my team operates efficiently, comfortably, and happily. Efficiency is crucial as there are moments that require strenuous efforts, yet my team has consistently proven themselves as proficient professionals. We consistently strive to enhance our decision-making processes.

Creating a comfortable environment is vital as it significantly improves overall productivity. Moreover, fostering a happy workplace is paramount, as content employees tend to remain dedicated and committed to their company.

WHAT’S ONE THING THAT SURPRISED YOU ABOUT YOUR CURRENT ROLE?

I’m continually amazed by the exceptional quality of the people I work with. Every day, I learn so much from them and am inspired by their remarkable abilities.

WHAT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF IN YOUR CAREER SO FAR?

I take pride in being myself. I consider myself a strong communicator, often bridging the gap between business and technology. There’s immense satisfaction in receiving gratitude for something I’ve developed that aids other in their work. Having spent many years as a developer and witnessing various injustices, I’ve pledged to do better and avoid repeating the mistakes I’ve experienced. This commitment motivates me to continually improve as a Team Manager.

WHAT PIECE OF ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO YOUR YOUNGER SELF?

My advice would be: don’t overwhelm yourself; allow things to unfold in their own time. In my youth, I was eager to pursue numerous interests, often embodying the saying ‘Jack of all trades, master of none.’ Life’s experiences and interactions taught me valuable lessons. I’m grateful for the extensive travel and work across various countries, which taught me adaptability in diverse work environments.

If I could advise my younger self, I’d emphasize the importance of mastering the basics thoroughly before diving into multiple pursuits. Focus on mastering one thing well enough to explain it to someone else.

HOW HAS YOUR ROLE EVOLVED SINCE YOU’VE BEEN HERE?

Being focused on people management is incredibly rewarding. Although at times, I do feel nostalgic for development work. When I joined, my primary task was to assemble a team capable of meeting the challenges we faced. Fortunately, my team’s excellence made this task much easier.

However, the ongoing responsibility of upholding the environment, fostering effective communication, and sustaining our established work methods is a daily commitment.

IF YOU HAD THREE WISHES, WHAT WOULD THEY BE?

If I had three wishes:

To continue growing within Sparta, advancing in the role of Team Manager.

To witness Sparta’s full potential and all it can achieve.

To embark on an extended trip to explore new places and experiences.

WHAT’S ONE THING YOU WISH PEOPLE KNEW ABOUT YOUR JOB?

Managing people is a challenging task. The team’s work involves a high level of creativity and intellect. Performance is significantly influenced by individuals’ moods and their perspectives on their contributions to the company. Moreover, satisfaction from a job well done plays a pivotal role in performance.

Striking a balance between performance and well-being is complex and not always attained. We’re all human and experience fluctuations in our days. My goal is to minimize these challenges and ensure a positive environment for everyone.

WHAT ARE YOU GOALS FOR THE NEXT FEW MONTHS/YEARS?

As a start-up, we’re experiencing significant growth. My medium and long-term goals involve contributing to Sparta’s development of a business culture that attracts everyone. I aspire to look back and say that I played a role in shaping Sparta into what it will become in the coming years.

WHAT, IF ANYTHING, ARE YOU CURRENTLY BINGE-WATCHING OR READING?

I’m a big geek and a fan of comics. Currently, I’m immersed in reading some Iron Man comics.

WHAT’S ONE THING ON YOUR BUCKET LIST

Travel abroad more and take a trip with my parents.

Live together with my partner.

Lose a few kilos 😉

WHAT’S THE LAST SONG YOU LISTENED TO?

I just checked Spotify, and the last song I listened to was ‘Remember the Name (feat. Styles of Beyond)’ by Fort Minor, featuring Styles Of Beyond.

Francho García our Engineering Team Manager here at Sparta and can be contacted at francho.garcia@spartacommodities.com

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