Meet Tsvetana Stefanova Ignatova, our People and Culture Generalist in Sofia, Bulgaria. Starting off as an English teacher, she decided to switch careers and try out aviation, as cabin crew with the Emirates. After 5-6 years of continuous improving and learning customer service, multicultural communication, punctuality, problem-solving and many other skills, she landed on a ground job as a technical recruiter, fast forward to today, as a People & Culture Generalist. Continue reading to find out more about Tsvetana.
My Onboarding Process at Nion
I have a positive impression of the whole onboarding process for the People and Culture Generalist role. It started with a trip to Stockholm. Engaging and well-balanced, it was a bit different than other onboarding processes. I was gradually introduced to everything that goes on at Nion, at a relaxed pace, making the whole process stress-free and even a bit fun.
Why Nion
I got intrigued with the idea of starting something new in the Bulgarian market where we can build the company culture we want, and where I can influence the positive environment as a local HR representative. I also liked everyone I met during the interview process very much.
Unique Set of Skills
Some of my skills that are a bit unique are technical recruitment, employee engagement, event management, and my favourite – CSR. Still, I think the most important ones are having good people skills and the right attitude.
Over the Next Year
There are a lot of things I hope to achieve in this role over the next year. For example, I hope Nion Bulgaria continues to grow, and also that we can establish a good healthy supportive environment where people have the sense of community and want to stay in the long run. I hope it becomes a place where you can develop and challenge yourself professionally and where you are not just an employee number.
How I Handle Setbacks
I’m not afraid of challenges, after all, not everything runs smoothly all the time. I try to have an analytical approach with problems and accept opinions or know-how from my teammates.
Professional Achievements
I am proud that I helped my previous company, grow and establish itself in the local IT market, and also the charities and causes we have supported through corporate social responsibility. But mainly I feel content with the people I have helped onboard and the good relationships I have created, I believe many friendships for life. In aviation I learnt you can’t handle an emergency, medical case, or even customer service by yourself. You need your teammates.
Nion in Three Words
Authentic, supportive, respectful.
What Tsvetana Does in Her Spare Time
I am a big mountain lover, so every opportunity that I get to do a hike over the weekend, I take it. Luckily, in Bulgaria there’s an infinite number of trails and peaks to climb. I am also learning windsurfing. An interesting podcast on self-development and a good book to read are always welcome in my routine.