In conversation with Ian Simpson
1. Let’s start with a simple question – why Bitcoin Suisse?
Before Bitcoin Suisse, I enjoyed working in operations at Bank Vontobel for several years and since I am also very interested in crypto myself, my current position as a mid-office specialist is a perfect match. And that is not only because Bitcoin Suisse is known to be a pioneer but also the special work culture and the great people make it a unique experience working here.
2. What is the most difficult thing about your job at Bitcoin Suisse?
The most difficult thing is the challenge of making new setups and processes possible due to changes, new service offerings and requirements. You have to be open to everything, work quickly, precisely and carry it on efficiently.
3. How do you deal with stress? (Because I assume you have a bit of stress in your job…!)
I like to do a lot of sports, especially in the morning. That way I start my day full of power and I feel more balanced during the day. But since I’m a rather positive person anyway, I’m not very susceptible to stress… otherwise it helps me a lot to go for a quick walk, take a deep breath and get down to business again.
4. What do you think are the most important things you need to work together with your team? How do you challenge yourself and how do you find ways to grow?
Helpfulness and communication. In my eyes these are the most important things in a team. Helpful in the sense that people support each other, e.g. that no one has to work alone until midnight or find good ideas together in a brain storming session. And then there’s communication. It is the be-all and end-all. Without it, important information gets lost and the maximum output cannot be achieved. I challenge myself by accepting new ones and implement them in my daily work to become routine.
5. Crypto is really technical – how did you learn about crypto and all the things you need to know in your role?
In most cases, the research papers of Bitcoin Suisse, which are available on the homepage, have helped me. But also through other internet sites I have learned a lot. And luckily if I still have some questions there are very friendly and competent work mates in the company, who were happy to answer. Last but not least, learning by doing is still important.
6. When you are not working – where could we find you? What do you do in your free time?
When I’m not working you can find me either riding my racing bike around lake Zurich in summer or cross-country skiing in Studen SZ in winter. In Zurich you could also find me sometimes in shops but more often in the restaurants where I like to go to dinner with friends and enjoy good food with even better wine.
7. Favorite music? To work by? To relax by?
Very different… I like many music styles. Chill house at work, deep house at sports, punk rock in the car and under the shower I love listening and singing songs from Alicia Keys loudly, but not really good :-))
8. What advice would you give someone who is just starting at Bitcoin Suisse?
Don’t be afraid to ask things and especially question what you are doing so that you really understand the idea.
9. How do you learn new things? Or are you even interested in learning new things? Any books, podcasts, YouTube channels?
Of course, especially on Twitter I always come across interesting topics that are currently very hot and I get most of my information from the internet.
10. Final question (crypto-related) – which do you prefer…Ethereum or Polkadot?
For me clearly Ethereum. I am an absolute Ether fan, because of its many use cases, large community and most advanced technology. And with L2 and ETH2 around the corner I believe Ether will rock it even more!
