Much like a pod of whales or a pack of wolves, did you know that a group of gorillas is called a band? In this blog series, we’re going to introduce you to members of our band—engineers, technical recruiters, PMs, designers, and more who make up the most important asset in Gorilla Logic…our talent! Are you Gorilla material? Join the band today!
Helga Martinez Chacon — Product Owner & Scrum Master
Helga is an Agile consultant, currently working as a Product Owner/Scrum Master. She has helped companies produce value through the development of digital solutions. Past clients include Bayer, Prudential Financial, Philip Morris, Merck Pharmaceuticals, Bank of America, First American Financial, and has also worked in the film and television industry. Helga has two sons, one is an engineer in the tech industry and the younger is a graphic designer. She loves horror films, science fiction, and engineering.
How do you spend your free time? – I enjoy outdoor activities, from swimming, to a nice soccer-5 “mejenga”. (Mejenga is an informal soccer match, very popular in Costa Rica). I also appreciate staying at home for a good independent film or a series marathon.
If you could travel back in time to any period in history, when would it be? – When Jobs and Wozniak were looking for money investors. Definitely would have given my savings to them.
What is your guilty pleasure TV show? – Any show based on a Stephen King novel.
Where do you go to relax and recharge? – Hot springs in the mountains.
What’s one of your most embarrassing memories? – The first time I had to attend a conference call in English, I was extremely nervous and did not make any sense.
What made you want to work at Gorilla Logic? – Work/life balance.
What is your personal motto? – Go big or go home!
What is your most used tool in your office? – My gut instinct.
Something that your LinkedIn profile couldn’t tell us? – That I love to write!
Who are the biggest cheerleaders in your life? – My two sons, my two sisters, and a famous coach named Anthony Robbins who inspires me with his quotes.
What was one of the most rewarding leadership positions you have had? – When I was in charge of a Hollywood feature film production called After Earth, I managed a large group of people and was accountable for many processes and resources. I got a credit in the movie after all the work was done and the project closed.
Best advice when heading into an interview? – Always be yourself. Do not pretend to be something you are not just to impress anyone. Do not sacrifice your personality for any job opportunity.
Best advice when meeting with a client? – Never go to a meeting with a client unprepared. Have a clear strategy and a backup plan. Anticipate objections.
Now that you have greater insight on the world (maybe;)), what would you go back and tell your 18 year old self? – You are going to become a great person: Don’t change your essence, as in the end it will make all the difference!
What motivated you to pursue working in your current field? – My passion for technology and innovation. Making a difference.
What qualities make someone successful in the tech world? – Empathy, transparency, being a good listener, never giving up even when everybody tells you not to pursue your goals.
To learn more about Helga and to stay in touch, connect with her on LinkedIn!
