Timo ended up as a CRM developer in OP Financial Group through OP’s Kiitorata trainee programme in spring 2023. With a degree in computing and an upcoming degree in business information technology, Timo knew that he wanted to work in the IT sector, but he did not have a clear career path before starting work at OP. “I wanted to try something new to know which IT area was the most suitable for me,” he says.

An open culture of asking questions helps you develop

The position as a trainee in CRM development was Timo’s first job in his own field. Timo was not familiar with customer relationship management and its related platforms beforehand, and stepped into a whole new world in spring. “When I came here, I actually did not even know what CRM meant,” laughs Timo.

When the trainee period began, Timo quickly became familiar with OP Financial Group’s CRM tool, Microsoft Dynamics. After completing the Dynamics certifications and practicing in a simulated environment, Timo could start working on interesting tasks straight away. “Right after my first month, I started receiving responsibilities, which I was able to fulfil thanks to thanks to developing my skills”, he describes.

An open attitude and good dialogue with coworkers has helped Timo succeed in his work. “My mentor taught me that while there are such things as stupid questions, you should still ask them. It is alright if you do not know something but you need to have initiative and find out,” emphasises Timo.

Versatile thinking and cooperation

After a successful trainee period, Timo was given the opportunity to continue working on the same tasks. He has been extensively involved in the development of CRM, from design to technical implementation. “A large part of our job involves a business issue or need arising, which we address in the most optimal way. I have learned a great deal about various opportunities and limitations in Dynamics”

In the big picture, Timo also gets to affect customers’ everyday life. “For example, there might be a scenario where a customer needs a loan and we need to find out how the loan application is transferred in the systems and what kind of data it requires,” he explains.

Timo feels that his current task is suitable for him thanks to the variety involved. “I always knew that I wouldn’t want to just write code, and I have not written a single line of code while working here. Rather, my work involves configuring the system in Power Platform.”  In addition to coding logic, Timo gets to utilise business logic.”I like that I get to think and ask question. Sometimes, when the business unit sends us a wish, we can say that implementing it as such does not make sense and will try to come up with a better solution together,” says Timo.

You do not have to do the thinking alone, because interacting with other experts is a key part of everyday life, in addition to technical work. Timo is grateful to be surrounded by capable and pleasant coworkers. “Working with excellent people has made this a positive experience,” he summarises.

An opportunity to grow and try out things within the Group

Timo considers the opportunities for advancement in a large organisation and a culture that encourages the development of competence to be an important part, especially at the start of a career. “In the future, I may encounter opportunities to try something new,” he says.

Passion can be found in the most surprising places, so your first role in the house is not necessarily the last stop. “You only need to state that you are interested in something and you will be included in a new project,” declares Timo. Close collaboration between teams opens the window for versatile tech work across OP Financial Group. “I can discuss test automation or other interesting matters with professionals in the field at a low threshold,” says Timo.

While the Kiitorata programme has ended for Timo, he continues to develop with both his work and studies. He encourages other experts who are starting their career to trust themselves and that the trainee period is for learning. “I recommend the Kiitorata programme for everyone - You don’t have to doubt your skills, because you do not have to be a full professional when coming to work at OP.”