Encora Engineering is renowned for its talented professionals who constantly strive to create intelligent software solutions. Among the many exceptional individuals in their ranks, we had the pleasure of sitting down with Daniel Ionescu, Head of Practice in the Engineering division. With a career spanning software engineering, technical leadership, and management, Daniel brings a unique blend of expertise and passion to his role. Join us as we delve into his journey, achievements, and insights that have shaped his remarkable career at Encora.
What is your current position at Encora, and why did you choose this career? Please describe your current role.
My current role is Head of Practice in the Engineering division, overseeing Microsoft/Azure and Python/AWS technology areas. Choosing this career was a natural progression for me, stemming from my initial role as a software engineer back in 2015. I have always enjoyed working with people, listening, and helping them with project-related or personal matters. Over time, my focus shifted towards technical leadership and management, as I found fulfillment in guiding people’s careers. Balancing personal expectations, technical skills, and business goals can be challenging, but I find it rewarding. Additionally, I am passionate about training and mentoring, working with both junior and senior engineers to stay up-to-date with best practices in software development and the latest technology trends.
What is your greatest professional achievement? Tell us something you are proud of.
One of my most significant professional achievements occurred during the Covid-19 pandemic. At that time, I was part of a software development team working on an online teaching and assessment platform that required significant upgrades. The platform had to support the sudden shift to online learning and incorporate new functionalities. We successfully developed a groundbreaking feature that allowed teachers to utilize video content with smart tracking capabilities, enhancing the learning experience for millions of American students. Our dedicated efforts enabled them to access a viable alternative to traditional in-classroom teaching. Contributing to something so meaningful was truly rewarding.
What advice would you give someone who is just starting their career in your area of practice?
A: My advice to those starting their career in this field is simple but valuable. Be curious and seek out challenges, as they provide opportunities for growth and learning. Additionally, kindness and empathy go a long way in fostering positive relationships and creating a supportive work environment. By embracing curiosity, challenging oneself, and treating others with kindness, one can pave the way for a successful and fulfilling career in software engineering.
How do you approach and manage technology changes?
Staying up-to-date with technology is essential in our industry, so I believe that everyone should allocate time to stay informed about new trends. This can be accomplished through various means such as reading articles, studying code snippets, participating in company programs aimed at knowledge sharing, attending workshops and presentations, and even taking self-paced online courses and technical certifications. As a team leader, I actively drive the adoption of new technologies in projects and mentor team members. I lead by example, continuously seeking opportunities for personal growth through reading, learning, and participating in trainings whenever possible.
What is the best thing about working at Encora?
Aside from creating intelligent software, the best thing about working at Encora is undoubtedly the people. The overall company culture plays a significant role in cultivating a collaborative and inspiring atmosphere. I am surrounded by smart, well-educated, and motivated colleagues who contribute to a vibrant work environment. This collective spirit of innovation and camaraderie makes Encora a truly exceptional place to work.
How important is your job in Encora for your career development?
My current position at Encora provides me with ample opportunities for career development. I still have much to learn and accomplish in this role, and Encora offers an ideal environment for my professional growth. I am grateful for the continuous learning experiences and the chance to make a meaningful impact within the organization.
Can you tell us about your career at Encora? When did you start and what positions have you held?
I began my journey at Encora in January 2017 as a Software Developer. Over the years, I advanced to the position of Team Leader before assuming my current role as the Head of Practice in the Engineering division.
For people managers: How many colleagues do you have in your team? What do you think is most important when it comes to leading a team?
A: In my current position, I work with nearly 50 people in our Microsoft and Python practices, with 16 of them serving as Team Leaders. When it comes to leading a team, I believe that followership is crucial. A leader should be open to following good ideas and recognizing talented individuals, while also inspiring others to reach their full potential.
Who or what inspires you?
A: Kindness is a great source of inspiration for me. Witnessing acts of kindness and embodying this value in my interactions with others is deeply motivating. Additionally, my wife has been a tremendous inspiration throughout my journey, providing unwavering support and encouragement.
What are you passionate about?
A: Science has been a long-standing passion of mine. Recently, I have also found solace in boat fishing with my son, as it provides a relaxing way to spend quality time together. Moreover, I have developed an interest in studying human behavior and the intricacies of the human brain. The fast-paced advancements in AI/ML raise profound questions about our “humanity” and our interaction with technology, leading me to explore these fascinating topics.
After work, what activities do you enjoy?
A: After work, I find joy in reading, spending time with my family, cooking, watching good movies, and caring for my pets. Whenever possible, I also cherish the opportunity to meet with friends and nurture those valuable connections.
Anything else you would like to add?
I would like to share a favorite quote of mine: “Luck is when preparation meets opportunity.” It encapsulates the importance of being prepared, open to opportunities, and seizing them when they arise.
Encora is fortunate to have Daniel Ionescu as part of its team, driving technical excellence, mentoring others, and contributing to the company’s success. As he continues his journey of growth and professional development at Softelligence, we have no doubt that Daniel will continue to inspire and make a significant impact within the field of intelligent software engineering.
If you are interested in joining our amazing team, check out our available positions: Job openings – Encora
