Today we would like to introduce our COO of our holding company Hive Finance, Alex Teslenko from Ukraine. During this interview, we can learn not only about his work experience and daily tasks but also about the extremely difficult daily challenges he has been facing since February 24, when Russia invaded Ukraine and began to commit brutal war crimes.
1. Firstly, tell us briefly about yourself and your work experience.
I have been working in the financial industry for over 20 years. Mostly I have worked in different banks and non-banking financial companies. Among them, I worked as the General Director of the representative office of EOS Holding GmbH in Ukraine, the head of the collection at Unicredit Bank in Ukraine, and the General Director of the largest debt purchasing company in Russia - FCB. Also, my last job was as the COO of one of the largest micro-credit organizations in Ukraine before I joined the "Hive Finance" team in August 2022.
2. What are your daily tasks and responsibilities at "Hive finance"?
Based on my experience, when you work in a startup, it is always easier to describe the role than the responsibilities. Generally speaking, my role is to ensure stable growth in the future. With years of experience in organizing operations in large companies, I usually do everything right from the beginning. Together with a team, we are building the foundation for risk-free operational growth. Every day we face new challenges, and we need to find the right solutions, which is my duty and my great pleasure.
3. What do you like the most about "Hive Finance"?
First of all, I want to note our team's friendly atmosphere. Over time, I became convinced that this is one of the main business success factors. When professionals get together, there are no obstacles for them. Moreover, it is easier to achieve any goal when you feel pleasure in doing your daily tasks.
Additionally, I like the fast speed of decision-making and the lack of boundaries. For instance, we just had a meeting with the Lithuanian team, and in a minute, we discussed important issues with our colleagues from Poland. It is exciting.
4. As we know, you currently live in Kyiv, Ukraine. What are the biggest challenges you face working in a war zone?
The war has brought multiple problems. Those problems would have been hard to imagine a year ago. For example, the electricity is turned off for 1-2 days during freezing temperatures, or Russian missiles fly 100 meters from home. However, I don't like to complain when our army fights bravely against the enemy for our freedom. Thanks to them, we can work and help the country.
5. How does your work day look like?
It hasn't changed much since COVID-19. I have a lot of online meetings and computer work. Luckily, I live outside the city, so I can walk and breathe the fresh air here. I also use a treadmill to exercise to compensate for sedentary work.