Checking in with… Archana Hurry
Hey Archana, could you introduce yourself and describe your role at Checkout.com?
Hello! I’m Archana, I’m based in Mauritius, working as a Software Engineer in the Card Payment Processing team. I’ve been here for more than three years now and I mostly work with code, designing and implementing new features and fixing bugs/issues on production.
The tech stack I’m working with is .NET as I am a backend developer, but we also have to deal with infrastructure, so I have experience with some AWS services as well as SQL and other tech stacks. I also like to stay up to date with new technologies that I can then apply in my work.
How did you get into tech?
I’ve been fascinated with tech for as long as I can remember. I was always passionate about computing at school, and then went on to do a degree related to tech at university. Whilst I was studying at university, I joined a program called Microsoft Student Partner, and this is when I really knew that I wanted to work in tech in the future.
What attracted you to Checkout.com?
I had already heard about the company as I have a friend who works here, but what got me most excited was the fact Checkout was using new and cutting edge technologies that I had never worked with before. I had also heard that the culture was unique, and when I joined it was soon clear that this was true.
I remember when I first joined Checkout I was very nervous, but as soon as I arrived I was warmly welcomed by the team. I had great support from my manager and colleagues, and everyone was very helpful.
How would you describe that ‘unique’ culture at Checkout.com?
One thing I really like is how people respect you for what you do, and also reward you for your work. When I first joined, I was immediately put on a project, and although it was all new for me I was given help and the support from my colleagues and manager, and when I successfully completed the project, I was congratulated for it.
It’s really motivating since you’re always rewarded for your hard work, and it’s fun, which is an added bonus!
And what about the Mauritius office in particular?
Team building is really important here. This weekend we are going road tripping as two of our colleagues from London and Berlin are in town. We’re going to show them everything Mauritius has to offer — the waterfalls, the beaches, and we’ll then go eat (which is the most important thing!).
Do you enjoy working as part of a team at Checkout?
Definitely! I work in a global team where I’m the only member based in Mauritius, and the rest of the team is in Berlin, including my Manager. I never feel left out though because things are flexible at Checkout. I am able to start working when Berlin starts working, and meetings are always arranged to take into consideration the time difference.
How has Checkout.com helped you to elevate your career?
When I first joined Checkout, I was an Associate Engineer, and with a plan I co-designed with my manager, I’ve been promoted to an Engineer.
The tech world is constantly evolving. There are always new technologies to learn, and during my career I hope to grow with them. I’m learning new things every day, from the people around me and making the time for development and training.
And final question, if you hadn’t got into technology, what do you think you would be doing?
I have actually thought about this and I would love to do interior design if I wasn’t working in tech, because I do consider myself as a very creative person and like to change little things into something great!
Find out more about opportunities to join our team at our careers site.
