Managing a team is, as many would agree, an insightful but also challenging experience, no matter the size of your team.  

Today, we're going behind the scenes of the Research and Development Swedish department to chat with Filip Larsson, Development Manager at Trapets.  

In this interview, Filip shares insights into his professional journey, his approach to managing a dedicated team, and the nurturing company culture that defines Trapets. 

1.Tell us about yourself.

I joined Trapets a little over a year ago in a combined manager and system developer role. I've held many positions since graduating, but I've consistently gravitated towards roles that focus on both leadership and hands-on development. This is mainly due to my passion for agile software development and my commitment to creating high-quality software.  

Outside of my professional life, I'm married and a proud father of two. I enjoy staying active, often working out at the gym, running, playing disc golf, or skiing (mostly cross-country).  

I also love spending time at our vacation house in the forest, relaxing and recharging with my family and our two small dogs. When I'm not outdoors, I enjoy playing board games with friends, combining my love of strategy with some friendly competition. 

2.Describe your role as Development Manager at Trapets. What does your day look like?

I usually join the morning stand-ups with our teams in Stockholm to see if I can assist with any impediments. Occasionally, I also report on the status of development tasks I'm involved in.  

Every day, I coordinate our 3rd-line support to ensure we handle issues efficiently. Much of my time is also dedicated to improving our processes and ways of working, encouraging my colleagues to participate in training, and maintaining a strong focus on quality.  

3.How would you describe the company culture at Trapets, and how does it influence your work?

During the first interview, I already had a really good feeling about the culture at Trapets. 

The possibility of working half-time from home and focusing on work-life balance resonated with me.  

With good values comes true engagement and the willingness to work together towards our goals. I think Trapets makes an excellent employer for all stages of life. 

4.What is your approach to leading the Swedish development team, and how do you foster a collaborative environment?

I participate in the daily scrums that provide a structured opportunity for team members to share updates and obstacles, promoting a collaborative atmosphere.  

Additionally, we hold a dedicated developer meeting once a week to dive deeper into ongoing projects and share insights. I also encourage everyone to add their own topics during the developer meeting.  

However, I recognise that maintaining collaboration can be challenging, especially when I’m involved in acute activities or forward-looking meetings. To address this, I consciously prioritise team interactions and ensure I'm available for one-on-one discussions as needed.