“Now that’s what an Ocelot sounds like” Bob Brodie said definitively, playing a sound clip he found in a lord-knows-what corner of the internet. “Sorry, Sean,” I said. “Maybe you don’t sound like an Ocelot after all.”
It’s a typical exchange here at the SUMO Heavy office. Between healthy doses of sharing videos, quoting internet memes and just plain busting each other’s chops, we work hard to produce work that not only satisfies our clients, but makes me damned proud to be a part of.
I’ve been a Project Manager at SUMO Heavy Industries for about three months. While any transition to a new job or position takes time to work out, Bart and Bob made me feel comfortable right away. I guess they pretty much had to, seeing that I was their first full-time on-site contractor and the fact that we were all working out of their apartment at the time (Yes, they tidied up before I got there). Far and away the best part of working here is the welcoming atmosphere. Since day one, I’ve been included in all client meetings, budget reviews, revenue expectations, discussions of past failures and future plans. While all of this was overwhelming at first, it instantly made me part of the team, and I was invested.
Also, they have an open ‘nap’ policy and unlimited coffee. What can I say, I’m a woman of simple pleasures.
Sean, Bob and Jessica at the new SUMO office.
In the three short months I’ve been here, we’ve grown quite a bit. We’ve begun leasing an office and hired Sean, our full-time local developer. As we grow, SUMO still remains a place where all of our opinions and input are valued and never discarded. When looking at offices, the whole team (schedules permitting) went to look at potential spaces. It was a decision we were going to make together and if any one of us hated the space, then it wasn’t the space for us. This is something that’s only possible with a smaller company, but it exemplifies the family nature of SUMO. Having the ability to provide input makes me intrinsically want to do great work. I want to help make this a great place to be and to help shape a great company, even if it means working harder or longer hours when necessary.
I know SUMO will experience a great deal of challenges as we grow, but since the core values and ideas are held steadfast in place, I know it will continue to be an excellent place to work. Besides, where else would I have the opportunity to learn so many things (like how an Ocelot sounds)?
