How to Advance Your Career at EPAM with Delivery Management School

With more than 20 years of practical experience in hardware and software, Ionut became a member of EPAM one and a half years ago, enabling him to enhance his technical skills and proficiency in the technology field. Presently, he is operating as a Delivery Manager in the PHP expertise of EPAM Romania. This interview explores Ionut's journey toward the Delivery Management School and his experience there.

You started your career with EPAM as Software Engineer, what led you to Delivery Management School?

Since joining EPAM as a Lead Software Engineer, I have actively sought opportunities to learn, grow and evolve. I have taken on additional responsibilities, participated in relevant training and engaged in knowledge-sharing initiatives. This continuous pursuit of growth and development has naturally led me to aspire to the role of Delivery Manager. However, before undertaking the assessment, it was crucial to align my understanding of the delivery manager role with the specific expectations that EPAM had, and that was the driving force behind my decision to join the Delivery Management School (DMS).

The DM School served as the ideal platform for me to refine my skills and gain a deeper understanding of the expectations and requirements of a delivery manager in the context of EPAM.

What strengths helped you the most in your career?

• Perseverance: I have encountered numerous challenges and obstacles throughout my career. However, my determination to overcome these obstacles and stay focused on my goals has been a crucial strength that has propelled me forward.
• Desire to help people grow: I strongly believe in the power of mentorship and supporting others in their professional development. By nurturing a collaborative and supportive environment, I have been able to help my team members thrive and achieve their full potential.
• Hunger for knowledge: The IT industry is constantly evolving, and staying updated with the latest technologies, trends and best practices is essential. I have always maintained a thirst for knowledge, continuously seeking opportunities to learn and expand my expertise.

What key learnings did you get from this program?

The Delivery Management School provided me with a wealth of knowledge and skills across various domains. One of the key learnings was the importance of effective stakeholder management, understanding their expectations and aligning project objectives with client needs. I also gained a deeper understanding of project management methodologies, agile practices and the crucial role of communication in ensuring project success. Additionally, the program emphasized the significance of continuous learning, adaptability and the ability to navigate complex project landscapes. 

Graduating from the Delivery Management School offered me invaluable takeaways. One of the most significant ones was the comprehensive understanding of end-to-end project delivery, a better understanding of the initiation, planning, execution, and closure phases. I also learned effective strategies for managing teams and stakeholders, fostering collaboration and resolving conflicts. Moreover, the program highlighted the importance of data-driven decision-making, risk management and continuous improvement in the context of project delivery. These learnings have equipped me with a holistic perspective and practical tools to excel as a Delivery Manager.

What strengths do you think are most important in a Delivery Manager? Whose career inspires you and why?

In my opinion, the most important strengths of a Delivery Manager are exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, strong leadership abilities, adaptability and the capacity to navigate complex project landscapes. The ability to effectively manage stakeholders, build strong relationships, and inspire and motivate team members is critical for success in this role.

What advice would you give to someone looking to join the Delivery Management School?

I advise someone considering joining the Delivery Management School to approach the program with an open mindset and a willingness to learn. Actively engage in the coursework, take advantage of networking opportunities, and leverage the expertise of instructors and peers. To excel as a Delivery Manager today, key skills include project management, stakeholder management, team leadership and communication. Proficiency in agile methodologies, data-driven decision-making and risk management are also highly valuable. 

In terms of mindset, a growth mindset and adaptability are crucial, as the industry is constantly evolving. A Delivery Manager should exhibit strong emotional intelligence, effective problem-solving skills, resilience, and the ability to navigate ambiguity. Having a customer-centric approach, fostering collaboration, and embracing a continuous learning mindset are vital attributes for success in this role.

Lastly, stay curious, be proactive in seeking feedback, and continuously apply the learnings in real-world scenarios to maximize the benefits of the program. EPAM provides lots of opportunities to build a Delivery Management expertise and advance your career, so think if this is the right path for you and take a leap!

To learn more about career opportunities, visit epam.com/careers