Constant growth lifestyle: Oksana Khorolets, Financial Operations Specialist

Beginning of career

I was born in Ukraine and graduated from the economics department of a shipbuilding university with a master's degree in Enterprise Economics. During my studies, I participated in various conferences and graduated with honours.

My proactiveness helped me secure a job in my field—the university rector recommended me for an interview at one of the city's largest companies, which provided pilotage services throughout Ukraine's waters.

I joined the company and worked in the financial planning department for some time. Later, I decided to shift focus and spent the next four years teaching yoga and managing several yoga studios.

Moving to Spain

In 2017, I moved to Spain to reunite with the family members living there, and started attending Spanish courses to learn the language.

Over the next three years, I completed three more master's degrees in Business Analytics, Service Management, and Marketing, all while working as a manager at a yoga studio. However, when the pandemic and lockdown began, I had to search for a new job.

Joining Mercats

A classmate from my Spanish courses reached out to me. She worked at Mercats and suggested I apply for a Financial Operator position. I was intrigued.

At the time, I didn't have much experience with interviews, as most of my previous jobs had come to me through personal contacts. Additionally, the fact that all interviews were to be conducted online due to the pandemic made the process even more nerve-wracking.

As it happened, the entire process was engaging and comfortable. I met the HR director—and we instantly clicked. After receiving my offer, I visited the company in person. I met the team, toured the office, and confirmed my decision. This is how my career at Mercats began.

New heights at Mercats

The onboarding was excellent. I underwent extensive training, where I gradually immersed myself in the company's operations and processes, as well as my new responsibilities. After completing the training, I fully stepped into my role.

A year later, I was promoted to Senior Financial Operator, and after two more years, I moved to another department. Each promotion involved a full hiring process with interviews and tests. It was challenging, but entirely worthwhile.

What I enjoy most about Mercats is the people I work with. For instance, my team members always support each other and are ready to help, which is genuinely gratifying. It's amazing to be surrounded by colleagues who create a pleasant workplace environment.

I also enjoy the challenging tasks my position brings—problem-solving has always been my forte and my passion. It has always motivated me to continue searching for solutions, learning, growing—everything.

Advice for career growth

1. Pursue what interests you. I've always loved mathematics, particularly the moments when everything balances out. Solving complex problems brought me immense satisfaction and motivated me to keep learning and working. I recommend savouring those moments of accomplishment rather than taking them for granted.
2. Never stop learning. In addition to my four master's degrees, I continuously explore new topics. For example, I'm a big fan of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) courses. They record lectures on a variety of subjects, offering something for everyone. YouTube also has an abundance of materials and tutorials for self-study. The key is to find a lecturer whose teaching style resonates with you.

I firmly believe that if you're not growing, you're not just standing still—you're moving backward.