The journey began in 2010 when Igor, after completing his studies, entered the tech world through a support role that quickly transitioned to a project leadership position at a large international consulting company. Leading lean projects and handling significant responsibilities at Euroclear, the end-customer, he demonstrated exceptional skills in infrastructure and project management. However, the thought of climbing the corporate ladder in a consultancy was no longer motivating as the administrative and routine aspects of corporate life became less appealing.

The turning point to entrepreneurship came from an unusual angle: Igor was helping out his wife in her beauty business, which sparked an interest in the potential for a different, more entrepreneurial work style. This experience triggered the transition to freelancing, initially continuing work for Euroclear but under a new, more flexible arrangement through Finitec.

What sets Igor apart is his unique perspective, honed from experiences on both sides of the IT services table. Being able to understand and commit to the goals of both clients and buyers enables a nuanced approach to client and vendor relationships. This understanding combined with the drivers of a solo entrepreneur help address complex challenges. Or as Igor would put it -  “to companies freelancers are a swiss army knife solution”. 

Freelancers like Igor often transform one-time projects into loyal, long-term partnerships. A great example of this, and central to Igor’s story is his eight-year relationship with Euroclear Finland, the Finnish Central Securities Depository (CSD). This collaboration showcased his ability to manage and sustain long-term client engagements, a testament to his expertise and reliability in the IT sector. 

The most notable milestone in this partnership was the migration to the European Central Bank’s TARGET2-Securities (T2S) settlement system. This project was not just any task—it was a 10-year journey of business and IT transformation that reshaped Euroclear Finland's operational landscape.

Freelancing can be considered a win-win for consultants and clients alike. HR and onboarding processes are lighter for the employer when using an external workforce, whereas consultants experience independence, freedom, and autonomy as well as notably higher incomes.

As the father of 4 children, to Igor freedom has been the most important part of freelancing. It is invaluable to determine your schedule in a way that still allows you to be at home with your kids or take them to the doctor when they’re sick. 

The main downsides to freelancing Igor mentions are carrying the risk of employment and the time spent on maintaining client relationships. However, these are things that agencies like Finitec can help with, and the collaboration with Igor for the past 4 years is a good demonstration of such collaboration’s success.

As a piece of advice for IT professionals hesitating to make the jump to freelancing, Igor says: “Do your research but don’t get stuck in overthinking. Just do it.”

Still, considering whether or not to take the leap to freelancing? Let’s have a chat - our mission is to ensure you a smooth start and a sustainable flow of work opportunities.