Kosta joined Nion over six years ago with a focus on building great software. Today he works as a Senior Software Engineer and Consultant Manager, roles that now involve as much mentoring and technical decision making as hands-on development. He talked to us about that journey, and about what his hobby – flying has taught him along the way.
Looking back at your 6+ years here, how has Nion evolved, and what excites you most about where it’s heading?
When I joined Nion over six years ago, I was excited about the opportunity to build great software. Looking back, what stands out most isn’t just how much the company has grown, but how we’ve grown together. I’ve seen Nion take on more complex projects, expand its expertise, and continuously improve the way we collaborate and deliver value to our clients.
What has impressed me most is that, despite that growth, we’ve kept a culture where people genuinely support one another. Knowledge sharing, collaboration, and continuous learning have always been encouraged, and that’s something I’ve appreciated throughout my journey.
What excites me most about the future is that we never seem to settle. Technology evolves quickly, especially in the mobile world, and Nion continues to embrace that change. There’s always something new to learn, and that’s one of the reasons I’m just as motivated today as when I first joined.
How did you arrive at your current role, and was it something you always aimed for, or did your path and responsibilities evolve along the way?
My role has definitely evolved over time. I started with a strong focus on software development, primarily building mobile applications, but as I gained experience, I naturally became more involved in technical decision-making, mentoring colleagues, and helping teams solve more complex challenges.
Getting to this level happened gradually as I took on more responsibility and discovered that I enjoyed creating an environment where both people and projects could succeed.
Today, I still love being hands-on with development, but I find just as much satisfaction in helping others grow, sharing knowledge, and contributing to the team’s success. Looking back, the role feels like a natural progression rather than a destination I had planned from the start.
Can you describe what a normal workday looks like for you?
One of the things I enjoy most is that there really isn’t a “normal” workday.
I usually start by making sure my priorities are clear, whether that’s helping unblock a consultant, discussing solutions with a client, planning upcoming work, or focusing on development. Throughout the day I switch between designing technical solutions, reviewing code, implementing features, mentoring colleagues, and collaborating with different teams.
That variety keeps every day interesting and gives me the opportunity to contribute in different ways, whether that’s solving technical challenges, writing code, or helping someone else move forward.
What would you say is the unique set of skills that have brought you to your current position?
I’d say it’s a combination of curiosity, adaptability, and communication.
I’ve always enjoyed learning. Mobile development changes quickly, and over the years I’ve worked across Android, iOS, React Native, and other technologies. That has taught me to look at challenges from different perspectives and choose the right solution instead of being tied to a single technology.
As my role evolved, I realised that technical expertise alone isn’t enough. Understanding business goals, communicating clearly, and bringing people together around a common solution have become just as important. Whether I’m discussing architecture, mentoring colleagues, or working with clients, I enjoy connecting the technical and business sides of a project.
I’m also a firm believer that you never stop learning. Staying curious and open to new ideas has been one of the biggest drivers of my professional growth.
You are also a CM at Nion. Can you tell us a bit more about this role and you in it?
Being a Consultant Manager is about much more than following project status. For me, it’s about building relationships and helping people succeed. I enjoy getting to know each consultant beyond their day-to-day work, understanding what motivates them, where they want to grow, and how I can support them. Sometimes that’s discussing technical development, sometimes it’s helping navigate a challenge, and sometimes it’s simply being someone they can rely on.
One of the most rewarding moments is seeing someone you’ve supported become more confident, take on bigger responsibilities, or achieve a personal career goal. Knowing you’ve played a small part in that journey is incredibly fulfilling.
Do you have a unique problem-solving process that really makes an impact for clients?
One lesson I’ve learned through flying is that a go-around isn’t considered a failure, but good judgement. If the approach isn’t stable, you don’t force the landing. You reassess, reposition, and try again. I think the same mindset applies to solving technical and business challenges. If an approach isn’t delivering the expected results, it’s often better to step back, understand why, and adapt rather than pushing forward with a solution that isn’t right.
That’s how I approach problem-solving with clients. I first focus on understanding the business need, then break complex challenges into manageable parts and evaluate different options before deciding on the best path forward. I also believe the best solutions come from collaboration, because different perspectives often uncover ideas one person alone might miss.
Delivery is only one part of what you do here. What is it about Nion that makes you want to be this involved beyond your core role?
For me, it’s the people.
Nion has always been a place where taking initiative is encouraged. Whether it’s mentoring colleagues, supporting recruitment, sharing knowledge, or helping consultants develop, you’re given the opportunity to contribute beyond your day-to-day responsibilities.
That’s something I really value. It’s rewarding to know your impact isn’t measured only by the applications you build, but also by the people you help and the teams you contribute to. Being part of an environment where people genuinely support each other makes it easy to stay engaged.
We know you have a fun hobby. Can you tell us a bit about flying or anything else you enjoy doing in your spare time?
One of my biggest passions outside of work is flying. I’m currently finishing with the flying academy and it’s an experience that constantly pushes me to improve. Aviation requires preparation, discipline, focus, and good decision-making. I’ve found that many of those lessons naturally carry over into my professional life.
Flying constantly reminds me that learning never stops. Every flight is different, every landing is a chance to improve. I think that’s exactly the mindset that has shaped both my career and the way I work with people.
When I’m not flying, I love spending quality time with my wife and our two kids. Whether we’re travelling, enjoying the outdoors, or simply spending time together, those are the moments that help me recharge.
Flying challenges me to keep learning, while my family reminds me why balance is just as important.