The Boomerang Effect: Emre's return to Sopra Steria

Emre's story of exploration and return to Sopra Steria highlights the power of strong workplace bonds. Dive into his memorable moments and see how his journey can inspire others considering a return to their roots.

Emre's initial journey

Emre Gul began his career with Sopra Steria on December 1, 2022, marking his first work experience in the Netherlands. “At that time, my Dutch proficiency was at a beginner level. Fortunately, I quickly found an English-speaking work environment, which made the transition smoother” he recounted of his early days.

During his tenure until February 2024, Emre enjoyed networking, sharing knowledge, participating in events, and working with a Sopra Steria High-Performance Team (HPT). These experiences allowed him to gain valuable insights but also showcase his work during demo days and client events.

A new challenge

Emre's departure from Sopra Steria was prompted by an invitation from a close friend to join his start-up adventure. This decision was not a reflection of his feelings towards Sopra Steria but rather an opportunity to explore a different professional path.

The return to Sopra Steria

“Their warm welcome and the stability the company offered made my return an easy decision” Emre explained about his decision to return. While the start-up environment was dynamic and allowed Emre to take on multiple roles, it became challenging to maintain a healthy work-life balance, “especially after having a baby”. After amicably parting ways with his friend, Emre reached out to his former colleagues at Sopra Steria, and they welcomed him back with open arms.

Changes and continuity

Upon his return, Emre noticed significant changes at Sopra Steria, including a rebranding and updates to internal systems. However, the camaraderie with his colleagues remained unchanged and he adds that “we picked up our friendships right where we left off”. On top of that, Emre faced next to no significant challenges reintegrating into the company, quickly adapting to the updated internal applications.

Advice for others

Emre expressed his advice for others in a very poetical manner by saying that “returning to a former employer is like picking up an old melody on a new instrument. The tune is familiar, but your experience adds depth and nuance. If the harmony feels right, play on and create something even better than before”.