Interview with OptimaData
Any views or opinions represented or expressed in this interview belong solely to the interviewee and do not necessarily represent those of the PGConf.EU 2023 organization, PostgreSQL Europe, or the wider PostgreSQL community, unless explicitly stated.
- What makes your company a great place to work?
At OptimaData, you'll join an enthusiastic team of database professionals. We foster an open, relaxed atmosphere. A culture of sharing knowledge and collaboration. We give the space to develop yourself and encourage you to become a senior-level database expert. You will be paired with a senior colleague who will coach you. Besides tech training, we also support your development in communication skills, so that you can also act as a consultant.
Due to our proposition and reputation, we handle the most interesting and challenging database issues. Our project portfolio is exceptionally diverse and demanding. Our consultants operate at Champions League level to make a difference and to act as trusted advisors.
We have a no-nonsense culture, hard work is expected, but in return, there's time for brainstorm, discussion, attending conferences locally and internationally. Of course, we also make time to play darts, flipper, enjoy a well-catered lunch, laugh, have a beer or a soft drink, spontaneously or during quarterly meetings or company outings. Our motto is 'You are not a team when you work together; you are a team when you care about each other,' and everyone contributes to that.
- Which of your company's contributions to the PostgreSQL Project (code/community/conference) are you most proud of?
From our leading position in the Dutch PostgreSQL market, with database experts in PostgreSQL management, consultancy, and training, we feel the responsibility to promote PostgreSQL and contribute to this community. We aim not only to be service provider for PostgreSQL database management but also visible and active party of the PostgreSQL community.
We are proud of our role as the organizer of the PostgreSQL Usergroup NL meetups in the Netherlands. We received feedback from guest speakers from the European PostgreSQL community that PostgreSQL Usergroup NL is the most enjoyable, active user group in Europe. For example, we have had the pleasure of hosting speakers like Devrim Gunduz, Boris Meijas, Vik Fearing, and Bruce Momjian.
We organize a PostgreSQL meetup each quarter at a great location with food and refreshments. At each meetup, we arrange 2 inspiring (local or international) speakers, aiming to go deep into the content and highlight current topics. We have also introduced Lightning Talks to our meetups, which has been well-received. Traditionally we conclude each meetup with some good conversations and a drink. The user group now counts 818 members and is still growing.
- Why does your company attend PostgreSQL Conference Europe?
Since PGConfEU 2017, we are sponsor of the largest European conference focused on PostgreSQL. In 2023, we are once again a Silver Partner. We support PGConfEU because we believe it's important for PostgreSQL to become stronger both as a platform and as a community across the board. PostgreSQL is a significant database platform for OptimaData, and through our promotion of PostgreSQL in the Netherlands, including the PostgreSQL Usergroup NL, we aim to make a substantial contribution to the growth of PostgreSQL in the Netherlands.
As a sponsor, we also want to be present at the event. It is well-organized, often featuring enjoyable social events, but most importantly, it offers in-depth content delivered by inspiring speakers and sessions. We've built a large network, and the conference is almost like a reunion. It's a great opportunity to catch up, generate new ideas, and even initiate collaborations.
Finally, it's a fantastic experience to take our team a few days away from their daily routines and immerse themselves in the world of PostgreSQL. Spending a few days together, engaging in meaningful conversations, and building connections is a valuable aspect of the conference.