Welcome to another edition of Mather’s Employee Spotlight. This time, we have the pleasure of introducing our Director of Infrastructure and DevOps, Alireza Shekaramiz. Based in our Canada office, Alireza is a vital member of our Sophi team, the powerhouse behind Mather’s AI-powered solutions. Join us as we delve into Alireza’s expertise, uncovering the unique talents he brings to Mather. Learn more about his perspective on the essential qualities of effective leadership and gain insights into his career aspirations for the future!
1.What is your role within Mather, and what do you enjoy most about it?
As the Director of Infrastructure and DevOps at Mather, my main responsibilities include managing our cloud infrastructure technology services, leading a team of skilled engineers, and ensuring our systems meet strict performance and security standards. What I enjoy most about my role is the opportunity to work with an extraordinary team on cutting-edge technologies, and the unique perspective it provides on how all components of software come together to deliver a complete product.
2. Can you share a project or accomplishment you’re particularly proud of?
One of my proudest accomplishments at Mather was leading projects that transitioned our infrastructure and data services from external vendor dependency to in-house management. This strategic shift not only resulted in substantial cost savings but also improved our control over operations and increased our agility. Successfully managing this transition laid a solid foundation for our future growth and allowed us to respond more swiftly to costumer market changes and internal demands.
3. What skills or knowledge have you gained since joining the company?
Since joining the company, I’ve deepened my expertise in AWS cloud infrastructure. My leadership skills have also evolved, particularly in fostering a results-driven culture and championing DevOps automation, which has significantly increased our operational efficiency.
4. What do you think makes a great leader, and how do you embody those qualities in your own work?
I believe a great leader must be knowledgeable, trustworthy, and empowering. My leadership is characterized by my ability to reliably deliver projects, ensure seamless collaboration across different teams, and encourage a proactive approach to challenges. I strive to empower my team by providing them with the tools and support needed to excel and grow within their roles.
5. What’s one thing you’ve learned recently that has positively impacted your work?
I’ve learned to emphasize the importance of supporting my team’s aspirations, reinforcing my role not just as a leader but as a facilitator aiming to help them achieve high yet attainable goals. As a director, it’s my duty to steer my team’s efforts towards practical outcomes that align with the company’s objectives. This dual approach has reshaped my management style, fostering a more supportive and goal-oriented work environment.
6. Outside of work, what are some of your hobbies or interests?
Outside of work, I enjoy a variety of activities that keep me active and engaged with nature. I play tennis and volleyball, especially in the summer, and I’m passionate about running, biking, backcountry camping, and canoeing. Additionally, I have a keen interest in coffee, including creating latte art, which is a recent hobby I’ve picked up!
7. Can you share a memorable moment or experience from your time at the company?
It’s hard to choose just one memorable moment because the entire journey with Sophi, from its early days as a startup to its acquisition by Mather, has been remarkable. Being a part of such a talented team and contributing to Sophi’s development and success has been extraordinarily rewarding. This journey has been a defining period in my career, highlighting the impact of collaboration, innovation, and dedication.
8. What do you hope to accomplish or learn in the coming year?
Looking ahead, I am excited about the new chapter for Mather+Sophi post-acquisition. With more freedom, opportunities, and challenges, I am eager to lead my team as we tackle new projects and continue to innovate. My goal is to leverage this momentum to scale new heights and achieve greater successes.
