Member Voice vol.3 「Unconventional Beginnings: From Chemistry to Code – An Interview with Eliot」
We, Zenport, are committed to “Connecting data, people, and economies to create a sustainable and cooperative world.” We want to create a world that is not divided, a world where people around the world collaborate and prosper in a sustainable manner through global supply chains, using data collaboration as a starting point.
This is the third in a series of articles introducing our diverse members and their working styles. We interview Eliot, our VP of Engineering, who has a unique background as a chemistry teacher turned engineer.
Contents：
- Introduce himself and reason for Joining Zenport
- Growth and Technology in the Supply Chain Industry
- On building a team around Zenport’s diversity
- For engineers who are challenging new areas
Introduce himself and reason for Joining Zenport
In the realm of software engineering, the paths taken by professionals often wind through computer science programs and technical internships. However, there are those whose journeys defy convention, weaving through unexpected territories before finding their calling in code. Eliot, currently serving as the Vice President of Software Engineering at Zenport, is one such individual.
Interviewer：Could you walk us through how you transitioned from studying chemistry to pursuing a career in technology?
Eliot：Certainly. After completing my Master’s degree in chemistry in the UK, I embarked on a Ph.D. program in the same field. However, I eventually decided to chart a different course. Japan beckoned, offering a fresh start. I found myself teaching chemistry at a private tutoring institution in Tokyo, catering to a diverse group of students, including those from international schools.
Interviewer：That is a very unique career. How did you come to join Zenport?
Eliot：My path eventually led me to Zenport, where I initially joined as a front-end engineer based in Tokyo. Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to evolve within the company, taking on new challenges and responsibilities. Today, as the Vice President of Software Engineering, my role encompasses not only front-end development but also full-stack support for the business. Zenport has provided an environment conducive to growth and innovation, making it an exceptional place to nurture one’s career.
Interviewer：What drew you to the intersection of technology and supply chain management, particularly at Zenport?
Eliot：Initially, it was the allure of the supply chain domain that piqued my interest. Joining Zenport during a time when the world was grappling with the repercussions of the COVID-19 pandemic provided me with a unique perspective. Witnessing the disruptions and challenges faced by global supply chains highlighted the critical role of technology in mitigating such crises. Whether it was navigating lockdowns in mainland China or the fallout from the Suez Canal blockage, these events underscored the fragility of supply chain management and the need for innovative solutions.
Growth and Technology in the Supply Chain Industry
Interviewer：Zenport’s goal of becoming the common language for supply chain management. Could you elaborate on how Zenport is navigating the integration of modern technology with legacy systems?
Eliot：Many of the companies we collaborate with, particularly in Japan, have entrenched systems dating back several decades. Each of these companies has developed a unique approach to resource planning and operations, often relying on tools like Microsoft Excel and proprietary software. At Zenport, our aim is to unify these disparate systems into a centralised platform, serving as a hub for supply chain management. We envision Zenport as the common language that bridges the gap between these legacy systems and modern solutions.
Interviewer：I see. Next, let’s move on to the topic of “diversity,” which Zenport places great importance on.
Eliot：When we say diversity, what we really mean is diversity of thought. We believe that true innovation stems from differing perspectives and ideas. This diversity in thinking is what drives our approach to problem-solving and our culture of innovation.
Interviewer：How does Zenport cultivate an environment that encourages diverse thinking among its team members?
Eliot：At Zenport, we embrace the notion that diversity in thought leads to robust solutions and improved outcomes. We actively seek out team members with varying backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives, recognizing the value they bring to the table.
In a field where innovation is paramount, having team members with diverse backgrounds and ways of thinking is invaluable. Whether it’s tackling complex technical challenges or devising strategies for product development, the diversity of thought within our team allows us to approach problems from multiple angles and uncover innovative solutions that may not have been apparent otherwise.
Interviewer：Zenport has members from ● countries around the world. Could you provide some insights into the structure of Zenport’s engineering team and how it operates across different locations?
Eliot：Certainly. At Zenport, we strive to maintain an environment of equality and collaboration within our engineering team. Rather than categorising team members into hierarchies based on seniority, we promote a culture where everyone’s opinion is valued equally. This fosters a sense of ownership and empowers individuals to contribute their ideas and expertise to problem-solving efforts.
Our engineering team comprises individuals from various locations, including Japan, Canada, India, and Hong Kong. While most team members are based in Japan, we make accommodations to facilitate collaboration across different time zones. We recognize that remote work requires a high level of trust between team members and foster an environment where individuals have the autonomy to manage their own work schedules and styles. We value trust above all else in working remotely, in different locations.
For engineers who are challenging new areas
Interviewer：By the way, how do you keep yourself up to date with those new technologies and skills? I think engineers need to keep up with new technologies.
Eliot：Well, it’s a constant endeavor.Whether it’s cutting-edge technologies or areas where my knowledge could use a boost, I make a conscious effort to stay informed and continuously enhance my skill set.
One of my go-to resources is tech podcasts. I find them to be an incredibly convenient and effective way to stay updated on the latest developments. There are several active podcasters in the tech community who consistently deliver insightful discussions and analyses on a wide range of topics.
Just a few days ago, I came across a podcast discussing a significant security issue in open-source software. It was a topic that immediately caught my interest. From there, I delved deeper into the topic by conducting additional research online.
Interviewer：Many engineers are currently interested in Zenport.The candidates from other industries, they probably might find it difficult to change to the supply chain logistics industry. Do you have any advice to catch up ?
Eliot：Industry experience aside, we value mindset above all else.
Supply chain management is far from a stagnant industry. In fact, it’s incredibly dynamic and ripe with opportunities for innovation.
From navigating supply chain disruptions to optimising logistics operations, the challenges faced by the industry are ever-evolving. This creates a fertile ground for new ideas and technologies to emerge, driving innovation and transformation within the sector.Indeed, AI has emerged as a prominent trend in the tech industry, with its applications spanning across various domains. In the context of supply chain management, AI holds tremendous potential to revolutionise operations and drive efficiencies.
At Zenport, we’re actively exploring ways to integrate AI into our software solutions, harnessing its capabilities to empower our clients with actionable insights and greater operational efficiency. By embracing AI, we’re not only staying ahead of the curve but also driving meaningful innovation in the field of supply chain management.
Industry experience is irrelevant, especially if you are willing to boldly take on the challenges of such a promising field.
Interviewer：Finally, do you have a message for future Zenport members?.
Eliot：If you’re seeking a vibrant and dynamic workplace where creativity and curiosity are celebrated, then Zenport is the perfect destination for you. We’re on the lookout for inquisitive and innovative minds who aren’t afraid to challenge the norm and push the boundaries of what’s possible.
Thank you very much Eliot.
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