Author: Hannah Cairns

Kajan Anand, a Senior Finance Manager based in London, shares his experiences in the latest instalment of LoopMe’s employee spotlights, a series designed to offer an insight into the LoopMe team’s work, life, motivations and aspirations.

Life at LoopMe

Why did you decide to join LoopMe?
LoopMe’s technology, innovation and culture of pushing boundaries were major factors in deciding to join. Seeing the YoY growth, especially in such a difficult market, also had me excited at LoopMe’s potential. To hopefully play a small part in LoopMe’s future success felt like it would be an achievement in itself.

What project or event has been your favourite to work on at LoopMe?
Being a part of the team which brought the Poland entity to life was an incredibly formidable task yet one that I found very fulfilling. Bucket loads of paperwork, Excel workbooks, and a multitude of calls with Polish accountants, HR specialists and tax advisors all came together as part of a massive team effort. Seeing the entity grow from 0 to 50 employees in no time at all is testament to the growth of LoopMe as a business.

Similarly, working on LoopMe’s first carbon emission report with Chloe Hill has also been extremely rewarding. A lot of time has been invested to get to the source of all of LoopMe’s emissions but we have now hopefully set the groundwork to start deep-diving into our emissions to see what improvements we can make to our sustainability effort. It’s great to work for a business who prioritises and understands their environmental responsibilities.

What motivates you to come to work?
The team, 100%! I feel very blessed that I have colleagues who I can learn from, collaborate with and who challenge me. The reality TV gossip and rounds of Baby Guinnesses are truly the cherry on top. It’s never a bad day in the office when you’re surrounded by such great people!

Also, I must mention the phenomenal output from the team in Ukraine over the last 2 years. The team’s robustness and diligence in the face of extraordinarily difficult circumstances makes me proud to call them all colleagues

Who are you?

Tell us a bit about yourself.
Born and raised in Lewisham, South East London to Sri Lankan Tamil parents. I studied Maths at Cardiff University and then fell into accountancy following graduation. My career background has predominantly been in media and brand design so I have always enjoyed working in innovative, forward-thinking industries.

What was your greatest achievement last year?
Managing to purchase a home with my wife at the beginning of last year. The housing market was chaotic and there were several moments where we thought that the whole sale may fall through. It could have been very stressful but we were very lucky that we managed to get it over the line in the 11th hour.

Do you have any hobbies?
A new home has meant most of my time and energy has gone into fixing and/ or breaking things in the house. A patient brother-in-law and 1,001 YouTube tutorials was all I ever needed to guide me. I never realised how much satisfaction I could get from spending 2 hours unclogging an external drain.

However, the less said about the radiator which, as we speak, is still leaking in the bathroom, the better.

LoopMe’s employee spotlights provide an insight into the LoopMe team’s work, life, motivations and aspirations. This edition features Oleg Morochkov, a Product Manager based in Dnipro.

Life at LoopMe

Why did you decide to join LoopMe?
To be honest, I heard a lot about LoopMe from people I know and it was the only company in Dnipro in the ad tech industry. LoopMe’s values sounded very interesting to me so I decided to go for the opportunity.

Why did you decide to work in this industry?
I lost my fear of trying new things many years ago. My curiosity can’t rest when I don’t have the answer to a question, so this industry caught my attention. And, as a result, I’m now able to use analytical, technical, management skills combined together on a daily basis.

What motivates you to come to work?
The great people I work with and unwavering interest in the challenges I face every day working in rapidly changing conditions – the ad tech industry won’t let me get bored.

Who are you?

Tell us a bit about yourself.
My name is Oleg Morochkov, I’m from Dnipro and hold the position of Supply Product Manager. My journey at LoopMe began almost 5 years ago with a support role, which I chose even with project management experience.

Do you have any hobbies?
I have lots of hobbies, the most interesting of which are leatherworking and creating loft furniture using welding and woodwork.

What has been your biggest achievement in the last year?
First of all — I’m still alive, which is great. It’s very hard to choose the single biggest achievement. On the professional side — I think that it’s rebuilding our redirect processing services that allowed us to make our system more stable and identify potential problems with servers of our DSP partners. In two words it increased stability and helped detect places where we could lose money because of any issue that happened on the partner side. On a personal note — I learned how to weld metals from scratch!

LoopMe’s employee spotlights provide an insight into our team’s work, life, motivations and aspirations. This edition features Joyce Bacqueyrisses, VP of Global Client Services, based in New York.

Life at LoopMe

Why did you decide to join LoopMe?
It was my friend and colleague, Hélène Bouteille (Head of Global Account Management for LoopMe’s Intelligent Marketplace), who introduced me to LoopMe 8 years ago. Mobile was still pretty new and exciting, and I loved the company’s bold appetite for innovation and growth. LoopMe’s AI-powered DSP and early in-app investment, allowing better data and more immersive creative, offered brands an incredibly valuable product. The company was ready to take its unique offering to the US and I wanted to be a part of it!

Can you discuss a skill you’ve acquired or developed while working at LoopMe?
Leadership, collaboration, and planning have become more pivotal in my role today. The most rewarding one to me has been people management, supporting individual development and rooting for the success of the team. I couldn’t do it without the support and guidance from my colleagues. I appreciate every learning opportunity as I continue to widen my scope and responsibilities.

Do you have any WFH routines or rituals?
I’m working on the bad habit of checking my phone in bed. That aside, my key morning ritual is making coffee. My sister got me an AeroPress a few years ago and I love it. I start by grinding the coffee beans, boiling water and then let it seep for 4 minutes. There is something really relaxing about this morning routine. Sometimes I like to change it up and use the Italian mocha or Turkish cezve.

Who are you?

Do you have any hobbies?
I love exploring new bakeries, coffee shops and gelaterias on the weekend. As a French person, indulgence is my middle name! I do try to balance it with a good workout (really into OrangeTheory fitness). I also really enjoy languages and I have just started learning Italian!

Who would you consider your main role model and why?
I don’t think I have one role model and I won’t embarrass myself with fandom moments… I mostly learn from and am inspired by the people around me. Of course, my parents, grandparents and siblings have had great influence on me. As have my friends and colleagues. I really have great admiration for my colleagues in Ukraine. They are the bravest, most committed and determined people I have ever met. They also have the biggest heart.

If you could live anywhere in the world, where would you choose and why?
New York City! LoopMe made this dream come true 6.5 years ago. I wanted to be at the epicenter of our industry, get more exposure to global brands and challenge my approach and way of working. Beyond that, I was always fascinated by the US. Like many other non-Americans, I believe the diversity of people/cultures, the vastness of landscapes, and the appetite for innovation is truly unique.

LoopMe’s employee spotlights provide an insight into our team’s work, life, motivations and aspirations. This edition features Theo Alden, a Senior Sales Executive based in London.

Life at LoopMe

Why did you decide to join LoopMe?
I decided to join LoopMe because I was incredibly impressed by the company’s innovative approach to advertising technology and its commitment to solving complex industry challenges. LoopMe’s reputation for pushing the boundaries of AI and data-driven solutions was a major draw for me. I was also drawn to the talented and passionate team at LoopMe, who are the cornerstone of the company’s success.

What project or event has been your favourite to work on at LoopMe?
My favourite event at LoopMe was undoubtedly the boat party! The boat party not only allowed us to showcase our dedication to client relationships but also our ability to host an exceptional event. It served as a testament to our team’s creativity, attention to detail, and commitment to going above and beyond to ensure our clients have a great time.

Can you discuss a skill you’ve acquired or developed while working at LoopMe?
My time at LoopMe has significantly improved my presentation skills – I’ve learned to communicate complex ideas with clarity and engage audiences effectively. The emphasis on data-driven insights has honed my ability to create compelling visuals for data presentations. Moreover, the supportive work environment at LoopMe has boosted my confidence in public speaking, allowing me to adapt my presentation style to diverse audiences and contexts.

Who are you?

What has been your biggest achievement in the last year?
In the past year, my most significant achievement has been the expansion of the independent agencies patch and the cultivation of client relationships. Through strategic initiatives and a dedicated focus on client satisfaction, the patch has achieved amazing growth. Developing amazing relationships with my clients and being in a position to deliver great results for them has been hugely fulfilling and this is by far the best part of my role!

If you could live anywhere in the world, where would you choose and why?
I already live in the best city in the world, but if I had to choose somewhere else, I would choose Australia! The diverse landscapes, thriving cities, and laid-back lifestyle make it an attractive destination. The country offers a unique combination of natural beauty, from its stunning beaches and rugged outback to lush rainforests. Additionally, Australia is known for its high quality of life, excellent healthcare system, and a strong sense of community – I could also work on my tan, a key consideration when deciding where to relocate.

If you could invite any public figure to dinner, who would you choose and why?
My choice would be Mo Gawdat, due to his unique outlook on life and his compelling perspective on the concept of happiness. Everyone could benefit from listening to what he has to say and hearing his story!

As part of LoopMe’s Ukraine Support Month, August’s employee spotlights feature Ukrainian employees, who tell us more about themselves and share their experiences of life in Ukraine since February 2022.

Who are you?

What is your name and role at LoopMe?
My name is Anna Shabaieva. I manage the team of Campaign Managers here at LoopMe.

Do you have any hobbies?
I enjoy traveling and Petrykivka painting, a traditional Ukrainian decorative painting style.

What is your superpower?
I’m Ukrainian!

What is a place that you are most excited to visit in your lifetime?
I’d like to visit Alaska again, I was there 12 years ago and it’s forever in my heart.

Life in Ukraine

Can you talk about your experience the past 18 months?
It is very difficult to describe the war experience. We are watching how our country is being destroyed in real time and many people are dying every day. It’s very painful. Just as I’ve been writing this, we had a massive missile attack at night on the whole of Ukraine again. I woke up from a massive explosion at 4am. 

What do you want your team members outside of Ukraine to understand?
A big part of Ukraine is not occupied by Russia and we are trying to live normal life – but I’d like people to understand that the war has touched every family. We have Loopers who had to leave their jobs and join the army to defend our country; we have Loopers who are waiting for their husbands, brothers and fathers to come back to their families; and unfortunately we also have Loopers who already lost their loved ones.  

How do you feel supported by LoopMe?
I’ve been working at LoopMe for 7 years now, and Loopers have become a second family to me. It’s not just a job – it feels like home. 

Life at LoopMe  

Why did you decide to join LoopMe?
I wanted an opportunity to combine my professional expertise with my passion for making a difference. And I have it at LoopMe. 

Why did you decide to work in this industry?
I’ve always been passionate about marketing and advertising, and wanted to combine creative, analytical and technical skills. It’s always changing. It’s fast-paced and innovative. Every day is a little bit different.

What motivates you to come to work?
My team, the best people I know.

As part of LoopMe’s Ukraine Support Month, August’s employee spotlights will feature Ukrainian employees, who tell us more about themselves and share their experiences of life in Ukraine since February 2022.

Who are you?

What is your name and job title?
My name is Artem Koscheev. I’m a Project Manager in the Data Science team.

What is your role at LoopMe?
My role at LoopMe is to help the Data Science team work effectively on planned projects with no miscommunication between teams.

Do you have any hobbies?
Oh! A lot! Right now I am focused on reading (I prefer sci-fi and fantasy) and board games (and I’m not talking about Monopoly or Alias).

What is your superpower?
Well. As a normal Ukrainian guy I have some not one. But my favorite is my communication superpower.

What is a place that you are most excited to visit in your lifetime?
Hard to say. As of now I’d like to visit the Highlands in Scotland.

Life in Ukraine

Can you talk about your experience the past 18 months?
For the past 18 months, I have been switching between my part-time job at LoopMe and military service in the Armed Forces of Ukraine. As a mobilized soldier in the Territorial Defence of the AFU, I took part in full-scale war in Ukraine, mostly in defence operations. While in service, I reached the rank of corporal according to the NATO classification. I was a detachment leader and an instructor. When I had free time, I spent it helping the Data Science team handle projects and communication with other LoopMe teams. My family stayed in Ukraine, so when I left the forces recently I was reunited with them. And I was very happy to see them again.

What do you want your colleagues outside of Ukraine to understand?
Disclaimer: I do not intend to blame, offend or criticize anybody at LoopMe. This is my personal opinion and message, and does not reflect the opinions or thoughts of other people.

What do I want you to understand? Everything is real. Ukraine and the people in Ukraine are living in a period of war. You read about these periods in history textbooks or in literature. Or maybe you watch them in TV series or movies. For me, all these stories have become reality. I do not want any of you to go through the same experience and to gain this level of understanding. Please just take into account that every day in Ukraine people are killed and injured intentionally and with the blessing of the people of the Russian Federation. And some of your colleagues or their families could be next.

Secondly, I’d like to talk about the emotional aspect of my previous point. For now the question ‘How are you?’ is no longer a polite way to begin a conversation. Be ready to hear the real feelings and thoughts of the person you’re talking to. To give you some context here, we do not have a lot of professional psychological help here due to our history and culture, so some emotional things might be thrown at you. Sometimes it will be enough just to hear an answer which differs from “I’m fine – and you?” and show your feelings or attitude towards the situation. And that’s it. Let’s say it is a Ukrainian part of cultural diversity in LoopMe.

And, lastly, keep in mind that some basic needs here could be unavailable. I mean, rockets are still falling on our homes, so we might be having trouble sleeping, or with our gas, water or electricity supplies, or even suffering with our health. This does not lead to a lot of positive emotions, to be honest. As far as I can tell, we try to avoid bringing these problems to the office, but sometimes we just can’t. If you need to speak with someone in the Ukraine office, please check to see if there have been any strikes in the area.

How do you feel supported by LoopMe?
First of all, LoopMe still gives me a job! It is an amazing thing! Also the people I work with – my team and my manager – give me a lot of emotional support. And I think that’s an authentic part of LoopMe’s business culture. So thank you, LoopMe, for that.

Life at LoopMe

Why did you decide to join LoopMe?
“I was young and I needed money” LoopMe needed a person with good communication skills and a background in both analytics and project management, so I thought why not.

Why did you decide to work in this industry?
There are not many ways to earn a middle class income in Ukraine without dealing with corrupt authorities. IT is one of them.

What motivates you to come to work?
The people around me motivate me to come to work. As well as the interesting, challenging things that happen every day.