In our latest interview, we showcase the multifaceted workday of Mike Diamant, Senior Atlassian Consultant at catworkx. With over 30 years of IT experience and a penchant for good jokes, he shares how working at catworkx feels for him as an American, what he appreciates about German work culture, and why working with customers and colleagues is so special for him.
Michael Diamant: On creative solutions, team spirit and international cooperation
Hi Mike - please introduce yourself briefly:
Michael Diamant, Senior Atlassian Consultant, catworkx US
Mike: My name is Michael Diamant. I usually call myself “Mike” or many who come to know me, call me “Godfather”. Yes, there are many stories behind this. Just like in the movie I'll make you offers you can't refuse... (quote from The Godfather movie).
I work at catworkx as a Senior Atlassian Consultant and together with our great team I look after numerous customers and exciting projects. In total, I have been working in the IT industry for over 30 years and have filled many different roles during that time: from webmaster, developer, project manager to program manager and head of application development.
In addition to my enthusiasm for IT, I also have a penchant for good and some really bad jokes. I can find the right punch line for almost any topic – so feel free to put me to the test!
What is it like for you as an American to work for a German company?
Bill: Working for a German company is like traveling to another universe, but in a good way! As someone who tries to be open-minded, I appreciate the opportunity to get to know other cultures, and at catworkx I get to directly experience the European perspective. It's the first time I've worked for a company outside of America, and the way they work and interact with each other is definitely different.
What is different about the German work culture?
Mike: Considering that my wife’s family are all native-born Germans. Working for catworkx is like an extension of my marriage, relatives and in-laws. Oh god!!! That bad? No, not at all. LOL. What this means is that I’m quite accustomed to being told that I’m wrong even when I'm right.
What is different about the German work culture?
Mike: Having lived in Europe as a child and worked with international companies, I am well versed in the demands of intercultural cooperation. In most teams and companies, I have found a common denominator: “work hard, play hard”. Our anniversary cruise was a perfect example of how we celebrate success as a team while having a lot of fun. And for those of you who have accompanied Johnny on a walk – you know exactly what I mean.
How do you like the international collaboration?
Mike: This certainly can be challenging. However, the catworkx team(s) all seem to know and share in this challenge and are most accommodating for scheduling meetings or providing timely assistance.
What do you like most about your work with customers?
Mike: Every client brings unique challenges, goals and ways of working. There are always different ways to develop a solution, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. I love taking on this constant challenge and figuring out which approach works best.
What do you particularly like about your work at catworkx?
Mike: I really appreciate being able to help our customers solve their business challenges and work more efficiently with new and creative approaches. At the same time, I am constantly learning – especially about how we can make better use of the Atlassian ecosystem. I also find the exchange with colleagues, partners and Atlassian itself at team or community events particularly exciting. This diversity ensures that the work is never boring – that's what makes it so special.
And what is your conclusion?
The switch from STAGIL to catworkx was uncomplicated for me and felt very natural. I was able to continue working with a platform that is close to my heart while helping people achieve their goals. What could be better? 😊
Michael Diamant
Senior Atlassian Consultant
catworkx US
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