Malgorzata Węgier, Chief Risk Officer (Interim) based in Poland
What truly matters to me, however, is that I feel I can be honest here, both in the way we deliver our work and in shaping our work environment.
How would you describe Hoist Finance’s culture when it comes to inclusion and respect?
Hoist Finance is an international company, and working here naturally requires collaboration between teams from different countries. What matters most is that everyone is very open to working together and solving problems and tasks as a team. We also get to learn about cultural differences between countries. And I wouldn’t even say that we ‘learn to respect’ them: it’s simply part of Hoist’s DNA. We know we are different, we naturally respect that, and it’s just an integral element of how we work together.
Can you tell us about a time when you felt that your voice really made a difference?
I can’t point to one specific moment when my opinion created a ‘wow’ effect. What truly matters to me, however, is that I feel I can be honest here, both in the way we deliver our work and in shaping our work environment. Whether it’s suggesting improvements to team collaboration, proposing ways to streamline our processes, or even something as simple as requesting plant-based milk in the kitchen. These voices are heard and considered whenever possible.
How does working in an international team shape your experience at Hoist Finance?
The international work environment is one of the things that makes working at Hoist so attractive to me. It gives me the opportunity to learn about the cultures of other countries and experience the different temperaments of various nationalities. It really broadens your perspective on how diverse, and at the same time how similar, we all are.
Caleb Mathomes, NET Developer based in the UK
This balance increases my motivation and sense of connection to the business, as I feel supported in both my professional development and personal wellbeing at Hoist.
What aspects of our hybrid working helps you perform at your best?
Several aspects of our hybrid working model support my performance. For example, we have experienced multiple go-lives outside of standard working hours, and the flexibility of hybrid working allows me to focus fully on project delivery with fewer distractions when working from home. At the same time, being office-based during development phases makes it easier to coordinate with colleagues, collaborate effectively, and provide mutual support through face-to-face communication.
How does flexibility in your role support your success?
The flexibility within my role is extremely beneficial. Working from home allows me to manage personal commitments before or after work without the added stress of commuting. However, being office-based is equally important, as working remotely for extended periods can feel isolating. Having regular face-to-face interaction is invaluable, and being in the office also enables quick and efficient communication when urgent matters arise, as colleagues are easily accessible.
How does finding the right balance influence your energy and results?
I typically work three days a week in the office, as it offers a positive and engaging atmosphere. This allows me to build relationships with colleagues I may not otherwise work closely with and to take part in informal activities during downtime, such as playing pool, which has a positive impact on morale. This balance increases my motivation and sense of connection to the business, as I feel supported in both my professional development and personal wellbeing at Hoist.