I’m Starting a New Job

Tomorrow (January 2nd, 2024) I start a new job. Five months ago I left my previous job with no idea of what would come next, beyond taking a long break to relax and recharge. 

Me, at an early viewpoint on Wildcat Mountain towards the start of a backpacking trip and the beginning of my 5 months off. Photo courtesy of Tom Lehmann.

Over the past five months, I’ve done exactly that, taking a long break. I have done a lot, both physically and intellectually. I have literally traveled around the world, visiting Bangkok, Bhutan, and Singapore. I’m in great physical shape. I’ve gone on backpacking and hiking trips, climbing many mountains in the Adirondacks and White Mountains. I took a week-long cooking class. In December, I skied a lot, including trips to resorts in Vermont, Maine, and New York. I have read, learned, and relaxed. I’ve met many people and enjoyed sharing thoughts, ideas, and support with them. I’ve also spent time writing, which helps me think, although not much of that writing has found its way to my blog so far.

With my wife Orit on top of Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Choeten in Bhutan.

Now it is time to get back to creating and contributing directly to this world. I am excited to join a young company (Personio) that helps other companies succeed by automating much of their HR needs. Personio enables those companies to focus on what they do best and “empower their people to do their best work.” HR functions may not be sexy, but every company needs them.

With my son on the summit of Mt Marcy, the tallest mountain in New York State.

I am returning to a staff engineer role. I expect to spend most of my time working on our toughest technical problems, improving our technology and technical processes, and helping my colleagues grow and be the best they can be. After I get settled into my new role, I will also see how I can best continue to participate in my professional communities.  

With my friends Jay and Tom on the summit of Middle Carter Mountain in the White Mountains.

As with all of life, I expect there to be triumphs, setbacks, challenges, and help from others. I look forward to all of it. I especially look forward to learning with my new colleagues. And as I learn, I will continue to share my learnings and experiences with you, here in my blog. 

View of Afghanistan out the plane window while flying to Singapore.