With people from all over the world choosing Ireland as a place to live and work, we speak to those that have put down roots in the country, like Javier Rivas Arias, software development team lead in Bloomberg PolarLake’s R&D division.
Where are you from?
I’m from León in the north-west of Spain. It is a university city, so there is good nightlife. It is a historical place with loads of monuments to see and the Camino de Santiago also passes through it, so it is worth a visit if you find yourself in that neck of the woods.
How long have you been in Ireland?
I moved to Ireland in the summer of 2007.
Why did you move here?
My girlfriend at the time, who is now my wife, wanted to move back home after a few years in Spain.
What work do you do?
I’m a software developer and I lead a small team. We look after the rule engine and we develop a framework so users can implement their business logic using our tools.
How would you describe your working environment?
It is pretty cool, everyone gets along well and we enjoy working together. We normally work in small teams but at times we collaborate with everyone within the company. We also have regular social activities outside the workplace, such as go-karting, playing soccer, going to the greyhound races and going out for drinks, so it is perfect to get to know very interesting people and make new friends.
What do you like most about your job?
It is very dynamic and innovative. We are always trying to use new technologies to solve very challenging problems so this keeps us up-to-date with the latest out there.
Was it difficult to adjust to living and working in Ireland?
Irish people have been very welcoming. They’re great fun, which appeals to me as a Spaniard. Not only that, they are very helpful – from the gardaí out in the streets to the cashier in the supermarket or clerk at the bank.
What surprised you about moving to Ireland?
The amount of people that cycle to work. I always thought that it would be hard to cycle with all the rain but, in fact, it doesn’t rain half as much as I thought it would, so I’ve even taken to the cycling myself!!
How does your working life help to make you feel at home here?
Bloomberg PolarLake has always been very good to me and have let me go back home whenever I needed or if I was feeling homesick. At the end of the day, Spain is only a short flight away.
What do you like most about your adopted home?
That I feel really settled. I am very lucky to have the support of my wife. We have a toddler who keeps us busy and even my in-laws have made me feel part of the Irish family. I have also made great friends since I came here. And, of course, no one in the world does a better pint of Guinness than the Irish!
