Migration manager by day, DJ by night

From checkout lines in London to tech project management in Sweden

Ivan grew up in London, studying sports sciences while working in retail. He began his career at & Other Stories, part of the H&M group, but moved to Stockholm in 2015 for a slower pace of life and to pursue his passion for music. “Life felt like a rat race in London, with little time to focus on what truly mattered to me,” he explains.

In Sweden, Ivan continued working with & Other Stories while adjusting to his new surroundings. In 2017, he began self-studying web development, earning a diploma in 2020. This led to a project management role at H&M’s head office, where he applied his technical knowledge to inventory management systems. “They noticed my expertise from the store level and recognised how it could translate to bigger projects,” Ivan says. He worked extensively with RFID technology and hardware, combining people management with technical problem-solving. “It was an exciting leap I hadn’t initially planned,” he recalls.

After H&M’s restructuring, Ivan sought a role that combined his skills in technology and project management. He found it as Migration Manager at Signicat. “For the first time, I saw a role that brought all my expertise together in one place,” he says.

Turning curiosity into success at Signicat

For Ivan, joining Signicat felt like finding a company that saw the value in his skills and passions. “The job wasn’t just a perfect mix of my interests; it also represented a unique chance to grow,” he recalls.

His daily responsibilities are varied and engaging. Most mornings start with reviewing his customer overview using tools like OneNote and Gainsight. He coordinates technical meetings, sets up accounts, and explains key integration processes to clients. “Every customer is like a mini project, and I get to be directly involved in their migration journeys. It’s an incredible learning experience,” Ivan says.

What he loves most about his role is the chance to constantly discover new things. “I’m a naturally curious person, and this job is a gold mine for understanding how our products work, evolve, and where improvements can be made,” he excitedly says. But his enthusiasm for new challenges hasn’t come without hurdles. Ivan recalls how the initial learning curve was steep. “The hardest part wasn’t just learning about our current systems but also understanding those we were phasing out. It demanded a constant balancing act,” he admits.

Thankfully, Signicat’s supportive culture eased the transition. “My team was there every step of the way, especially during my first six months,” he says. “They reassured me it was okay not to know everything immediately, giving me the space to learn properly and deeply.”

Culture, support, and inclusivity are what set Signicat apart for Ivan. “It’s a place where you’re encouraged to be yourself. From day one, I’ve felt confident in bringing my whole self to work,” he shares. This acceptance has given him the motivation to grow within the company, which he sees as a key player in the evolving digital identity market.

A life in harmony

Outside the office, Ivan’s love for music continues to thrive. From DJing both in Sweden and London to running an R&B karaoke event in Stockholm, music remains central to his life. He’s also part of a choir, blending harmonies in a way that reflects his own quest for balance.

This commitment to both work and personal passions is made possible by Signicat’s strong emphasis on work-life balance. “The hybrid work setup gives me the freedom to plan my time while still being supported by great infrastructure,” Ivan says.

Lessons in leadership: Allow others to shine

Ivan’s time at Signicat has shaped him not just as an employee, but as a leader. “I’ve learnt that you don’t need to know everything to be effective,” he reflects. “It’s about focusing on your strengths, allowing others to shine in their areas of expertise, and taking responsibility for your approach to work.”

He’s particularly inspired by the opportunities Signicat provides for innovation. “We’re encouraged to suggest ideas, create case studies, and explore solutions,” Ivan says. The company’s yearly hackathon is a highlight, blending fun with creativity.

For those considering joining Signicat, Ivan has a straightforward message. “Be curious, be yourself, and don’t shy away from trying something new,” he advises. “Your individuality is what makes you valuable.”

A philosophy of balance

Ivan sums up his life and career with a simple yet profound motto, one that encapsulates his approach to both challenges and achievements. “Life teaches through purpose and balance,” he says. This belief in finding personal strength while maintaining harmony underscores everything he does—from guiding clients through technical migrations to spinning tracks at an evening event.