Gopinath Chinnu Asari Manickam is thriving in tech: A Guidewire professional's journey to Finland

In the ever-evolving world of technology, career opportunities can lead us to exciting and unexpected places.

Today, we introduce you to Gopinath Chinnu Asari Manickam, a seasoned professional in the realm of Guidewire technology. He has not only carved a niche for himself in this specialized field but has also made a life-changing move to the beautiful country of Finland to further his career. Let's delve into his journey, experiences, and insights as he embarks on this adventure. 

A passion for technology: A journey begins 

"I am Gopinath, currently serving as a Guidewire Technical Transition Lead within the Platform Renewal Program, specializing in Cloud Transition for Insurance. My journey at OP has seen me evolve from a Senior Lead Developer within the same program, accumulating approximately three years of valuable experience. Beyond OP, I've contributed to various transformative Insurance platform projects for Nordic and US clients, both on-site and off-shore, amassing over five years of diverse exposure." 

Gopinath's journey in the tech world began with a passion for innovation. He shared, "My passion for technology was sparked at the tender age of 20 when I enthusiastically embarked on the journey of creating my first mobile application. This pivotal moment laid the foundation for my foray into the world of technology." 

The Finnish adventure: Factors that led to relocation 

"Having previously worked in the Nordic countries, my familiarity with Finland made me eagerly anticipate my return to what's often referred to as the happiest country in the world. When I discovered OP, Finland's banking industry leader, and their diverse array of services, including insurance, my enthusiasm grew. What particularly drew me in was Finland's strong commitment to embracing new technologies and driving innovation in the tech industry." 

Gopinath's decision to relocate to Finland was deeply influenced by his prior experiences and the promise of working with a dynamic company like OP, known for its dedication to innovation. 

Joining OP: A warm welcome and forward-thinking technology 

"My experience at OP began with a warm and inviting welcome in the modern Helsinki office. The company's dedication to excellence was immediately apparent. I was particularly impressed by OP’s forward-thinking technology adoption, fostering a dynamic and stimulating work environment." 

Gopinath's initial days at OP were marked by a seamless and responsive onboarding process, and he noted that "the structured working culture at OP has made it easy for me to integrate into the organization. I am appreciative of my welcoming colleagues and the well-equipped workspaces." 

Work-life balance in Finland: A game changer 

"Finland's strong emphasis on work-life balance and quality of life significantly enhances overall job satisfaction. The reasonable working hours with (70-20-10) model and flexible work arrangements allow for a healthier work-life balance. The emphasis on employee well-being, and a high quality of life outside work contribute to a more favourable work environment compared to my previous experiences, making Finland an attractive destination for those seeking job satisfaction and a balanced life." 

Finland's commitment to work-life balance and quality of life indeed plays a pivotal role in Gopinath's job satisfaction. 

Guidewire technology: A transformative specialization 

"Specializing in Guidewire technology appealed to me due to its transformative potential in the insurance industry. Guidewire offers comprehensive software solutions that streamline insurance operations, enhance customer experiences, and increase efficiency. Its impact is evident in improved claims processing, policy management, and underwriting, which ultimately translates to cost savings and greater customer satisfaction." 

Gopinath's specialization in Guidewire technology is driven by its potential to reshape the insurance sector and create efficiencies. 

Future career aspirations 

"In my role within OP and the tech industry in Finland, I am determined to lead the digital transformation in the insurance sector. This entails adopting new technologies, nurturing innovation, and driving the digital revolution. With my specialization in Guidewire, Cloud, Architecture, and Program management, I am well-prepared to achieve new career milestones, actively contributing to the industry's growth and development in the Finnish tech landscape." 

Gopinath's aspirations revolve around becoming a leader in the digital transformation of the insurance sector, leveraging his expertise and contributing to the growth of the tech industry in Finland. 

Gopinath's journey stands as proof of the endless possibilities that a career in technology can offer, especially in a country like Finland, known for its work-life balance and commitment to innovation. His experiences serve as an inspiration for tech professionals considering a similar career move, highlighting the potential for growth, both professionally and personally, in the dynamic tech industry of Finland.