Interview with the Clockwise Software CEO, Andrei Tsygankov

In June 2024, Clockwise Software celebrates its 10th anniversary. During this decade, the company has gone through significant growth and transformation, evolving from a small startup into a leading IT services provider.

To mark this milestone and recall the journey, we spoke with our founder and CEO, Andrei, to reflect on the company's beginnings, the industry’s transformation, and the core values that continue to drive team success.

Q1: What inspired you to start Clockwise Software 10 years ago?

Ten years ago, the journey of Clockwise Software began somewhat unexpectedly: from what seemed like a simple project — an order management system for a local construction material manufacturer. My partner and I developed the initial version swiftly, and it was immediately embraced by our client, who then requested additional features. We quickly realized the potential for growth, so we expanded our team to meet the growing demands.?

Throughout this process, we learned immensely about our client’s business and devised numerous innovative technical solutions. This experience revealed our strength in understanding and enhancing business processes through technology. Inspired by our early successes and the challenges we overcame, we decided to establish Clockwise Software. Now, 200 projects later, I can confidently say it was one of my best decisions. The journey has not only been about growing our business but also about creating significant value for our clients, fostering a culture of innovation, and building a resilient team.

Q2: What was Clockwise Software for you 10 years ago, and how is it different now?

Ten years ago, Clockwise Software was a bold experiment - an opportunity to test myself as an entrepreneur and learn the intricacies of running a business. Every day brought new challenges and learning opportunities, from managing finances to building a strong team. It was both exciting and daunting to navigate this uncharted territory.

Now, Clockwise has transformed into a robust, successful business that employs 80 talented individuals who solve complex problems for numerous clients.?

Clockwise Software has become an integral part of my life - not just a job but a source of pride, fulfilment, and continuous learning. The past decade has been an incredible ride, and I'm excited to see what the future holds for our company and the clients we serve.

Q3: How has the industry changed since you founded the company, and how has Clockwise Software adapted?

Over the past decade, the IT industry has seen a significant shift towards more integrated and advanced technological solutions, especially in areas like AI, machine learning, and cloud computing. When Clockwise Software was founded, the landscape was dominated by traditional software development and the initial rise of mobile technologies. Now, we are seeing a greater emphasis on SaaS solutions, big data, and AI-driven analytics, reshaping how businesses operate and deliver services.

Clockwise Software has adeptly navigated these changes by continuously evolving our technological stack and expertise, particularly in JavaScript and its frameworks, which remain at the core of our development processes. We have expanded our offerings to include cutting-edge solutions like custom AI applications and data visualization dashboards, catering to diverse sectors, including healthcare, real estate, and logistics. This adaptability has not only allowed us to meet the growing demands of our clients but has also positioned us as a leading innovator in the IT services industry.

Q4: What are the core values and culture that you have instilled in Clockwise Software over the years?

At Clockwise Software, our core values are woven into the very fabric of our company culture. We uphold integrity in all our dealings, ensuring that every action is guided by honesty and ethical standards. We prioritize building relationships — not just among our team but also with our clients, fostering a collaborative and supportive environment.

Ownership is key. Every team member is empowered to take initiative and responsibility for their work, driving us forward. We constantly strive for excellence, pushing the boundaries of what is possible to deliver outstanding results. And importantly, we believe in having fun. We cherish a workplace where laughter and joy are as much a part of our day as hard work. These values not only define who we are but also how we operate daily, creating a dynamic and productive atmosphere that drives our success.

Q5: What has been the most rewarding part of leading Clockwise Software, and what keeps you motivated?

One of the most rewarding aspects of leading Clockwise Software is witnessing our clients and their customers thrive because of the solutions we create. Our work enhances productivity and helps them achieve their goals efficiently. Our focus on developing new products keeps us at the forefront of innovation in UI/UX design, software methodologies, cloud infrastructure, and AI technologies. Lastly, the opportunity to work with a dedicated and talented team provides immense fulfillment. Their drive and excellence inspire me daily, fueling my motivation to continue pushing the boundaries of what we can achieve together.

Q6: How do you see Clockwise Software ten years from now?

In ten years, I see Clockwise Software as a powerhouse in the thriving Ukrainian IT industry but also as a more geographically diversified company. We will be at the forefront of emerging technologies, particularly AI, while continually expanding our expertise across various sectors and industries.

Also, I envision a company culture that champions growth, learning, and excellence, ensuring that all employees feel valued and motivated. This will keep Clockwise a beacon of innovation and employee empowerment.