This profile of Ivania Rivas is part of our ‘Who Works at Rulesware’ series, profiling some of the exceptional people who’ve chosen to contribute to Rulesware. We’ve put the series together in an effort to introduce a little of our culture–as well as these great people–to our employees and clients, current and future.
Where did you grow up, Ivania?
I grew up in the countryside in a small town called Coatepeque, part of the beautiful city Santa Ana, in El Salvador.
What did you study in school, and why?
I studied computer science and Business Administration because I liked technology–and because I did research on the most promising majors for professional growth and business success.
How did you find out about Rulesware, and why did you decide to join?
I found out about Rulesware from a friend of mine, who knew someone working for Rulesware. I had recently graduated from school, so it was my first job opportunity related to my major. I joined because it seemed to be an exciting path for learning and professional growth.
What was your first impression of Rulesware?
I was part of the first group that formed Rulesware El Salvador, so I never imagined the company would grow as quickly as it did. At that time, even though the office was not ready, and there were some things that were still in progress, I immediately recognized Rulesware was going to be a great company to work for. The great culture and excellent work environment were evident.
Was there anything that surprised you about working here?
The open door policy in the company not only surprised me, but I also loved it: the fact that we could meet with all of the partners, even have dinner with them occasionally, and talk about the future plans they had for the company, and about the great and exciting things that were coming.
What do you do for Rulesware?
I am a Software Developer, and work as a lead on a development team. What this means is that I coordinate work with the CQ members and developers, assigning tasks and generally ensuring that we all understand our assignments and are all on the same page. I also help my team members with the analysis of their tasks, make sure that we all have the necessary tools and information develop our work, and help to find solutions.
What do you find most challenging about your job?
Actually being a good leader, rather than just believing that I’m a good leader. I constantly think about the things can I improve, how I can ensure that my team feels my support, and about ways I can help them develop professionally, so that they can grow within the company.
What do you find most rewarding about your job?
The most rewarding part of my work is being able to really see the improvement of my team members. I am lucky to be able to work with a team allows me to see their weaknesses as well as their strengths, so that I can work with them to improve. Being able to help them improve–and being able to witness that improvement–is one of the most rewarding things I have ever experienced.
Tell me about some of the people you’ve met while working at Rulesware.
I have met the core members of Rulesware, great people: Anthony Lee, Ji-Yoon, Jill Coffer, Carlos Aponte. I met some great friends, too: Carlos Romero, Salvador Fonseca, Elmer Gallardo, Darwin Batres. And I have met many smart people that I have worked with and admire: Vedant Sarawagi, Ashish Sharma, Johanna Cadenas, Rudy Samayoa, Edgardo Hernandez.
What do you do (in your spare time) when you’re not working with Rulesware?
I visit my family and spend really good times with them; I like reading books, I like cooking, and I also love outdoor activities: I go jogging, I take long walks, and I do mountaineering.
What might someone be surprised to know about you?
I’m used to doing almost everything by myself because I like it: I sew and tailor my clothes when they don’t fit, for example, and I can even repair a damaged faucet or shower. I have hurt my fingers in the past, cutting the grass.