Every new venture starts with a set of questions and a pinch of confusion. My entry into the IT sector in banking was no different. Coming from a background of freelance web development, adjusting to this new environment was a daunting challenge, but the lessons learned were well worth it.
As I began my tenure at Behsazan Mellat, an IT company serving Bank Mellat, one of Iran\’s major commercial banks, the world of finance opened before me. I found myself diving deep into an intricate network of processes that make up the banking and payment industry.
Initially, I struggled to understand the value proposition of the projects we were handling. The banking industry\’s IT sector was a world away from the various sectors I had served as a freelancer, and the complexity of its inner workings was at times overwhelming. This is where my background in Systems Thinking, a critical aspect of my Industrial Engineering studies, came to the rescue. It allowed me to recognize patterns, understand connections, and gain a more holistic view of the banking system.
As I immersed myself in this new role, I realized that Behsazan Mellat was but a single piece in the grand puzzle of the Iranian economy. As this awareness deepened, I came to terms with some harsh realities of our economic system, characterized by elements of crony capitalism, a topic I will explore further in another article.
Navigating through this intricate web, I began to identify the unique challenges specific to the IT sector in banking. Projects related to digital banking, core banking, and the wider payment industry presented me with a set of unprecedented obstacles. Yet, they also provided valuable opportunities for learning and growth. I was quickly developing an in-depth understanding of how this industry functioned, knowledge I would use to bring value to my role.
Parallel to understanding the financial world, another significant learning journey was taking place. I found myself deeply involved in Behsazan Mellat\’s transformation initiatives that sought to merge traditional and agile methodologies in project management. This transformative phase was a test of adaptability, strategic planning, and change management, and it provided me with a comprehensive insight into the nuances of effective project management.
These formative years at Behsazan Mellat were a vital turning point in my career. From understanding the intricate workings of Iran\’s financial system to enhancing my project management skills, this experience was a significant stepping stone. It shaped my perspective and honed my skills, preparing me for future roles that lay ahead. Stay tuned for more of my professional journey in the upcoming articles.