Jelena Saveljeva – building smarter systems and processes
Meet Jelena Saveljeva - Project and IT Compliance Manager at inGain
Jelena likes to figure things out—how they work, why they matter and how to make them better. It’s what drew her to IT, and it’s what keeps her growing every day. We often wonder how she finds time for all her interests, because in her free time, she draws, plays the violin and even knows how to sew clothes! Her curiosity about the world shows up also in her love for the world’s cuisine—especially French and Spanish.
What attracted you to inGain, and how has your journey been so far?
My initial conversation with Armands (our CEO) was a key factor. His genuine passion for his work and the way he presented it were immediately evident. It clearly demonstrated his dedication to the company and its development. Since joining the team, I've seen that everyone shares this enthusiasm for the project and everything that’s happening. Everyone is engaged and motivated. The atmosphere is both friendly and professional. The company culture is excellent, with mutual respect among colleagues. So far, I’ve observed that everyone has the opportunity to collaborate, everyone is open to change, and if you have the drive and energy, you can influence processes.
As a Project and IT Compliance Manager, what does a typical workday look like for you?
My typical workday as a Project and IT Compliance Manager is a blend of operational management, team support, client interaction, strategic planning and compliance oversight. I usually start by checking all the tickets and task statuses to make sure everything is running smoothly and to address any incidents, problems or bugs that may have popped up. This includes daily calls to sync with the team, identify any blockers they’re facing, and confirm we have all the feedback we need from clients.
A big part of my day involves working closely with clients, understanding their needs and helping them resolve any issues on their end. I also make sure I’m available to answer questions from the team and offer guidance on their tasks, keeping a close eye on ticket progress and ensuring everyone has what they need.
When I have a bit of breathing room, I shift my focus to longer-term planning, like roadmap development, architectural changes, and bigger projects that are still in the planning stages. This often involves collaborating with the Tech Lead to ensure we’re aligned. And, of course, a critical part of my role is managing IT compliance, which means developing and maintaining procedures and policies—and making sure we follow them.
What are some of the most exciting projects you’ve worked on at inGain?
Some of the most exciting projects I’ve been involved with at inGain revolve around significant architectural changes to our calculation engine and roadmap development.
What do you find most rewarding about your role at inGain?
The most rewarding aspect of my role at inGain is the freedom and trust I’m given to design and implement systems and processes. I enjoy conceptualizing and building frameworks, and here, I have the opportunity to do just that. I’m empowered to envision how systems should function—and then bring those ideas to life.
I also appreciate the autonomy I have in my work. I’m able to focus on my tasks without unnecessary interruptions, which allows me to be productive and efficient. This level of trust and independence is incredibly motivating and makes me feel valued as a member of the team.
How would you describe the company culture and leadership at inGain?
inGain’s company culture is truly motivating, driven by a team of involved and enthusiastic individuals. It’s an exciting environment to be a part of. The leadership fosters open-mindedness and encourages a strong work ethic. There’s a strong sense of shared purpose and a drive to achieve our goals, which makes for a dynamic and supportive atmosphere.
What advice would you give to someone looking to develop a career in the Project and IT Compliance Manager role?
My advice for someone aiming for a career as a Project and IT Compliance Manager is twofold.
First, regardless of your specific role or career path, always think outside the box and strive to go beyond the minimum requirements. Don’t just meet expectations—exceed them. This proactive approach will set you apart.
Second, in the IT world, continuous learning is crucial. The landscape changes rapidly, so staying up to date with the latest technologies and trends is essential. Specifically for compliance, keep a close eye on new regulations and guidelines published by regulatory bodies. This proactive approach to staying informed will be invaluable in ensuring your organization remains compliant.
