FROM ACADEMIA TO PRODUCT LEADERSHIP
Viktor Kulhavý, HR Project Specialist
From academia to human resources
I originally worked in academia, teaching and conducting research. However, after ten years, I felt the need for change. The rigid world of university life was no longer enough—I wanted to gain experience in a more commercial environment. So, I made the switch and joined HR in a small development company in Brno, where I handled everything that an HR role in a small firm requires.
During this time, I first came across Y Soft at an onboarding workshop in Impact Hub, which immediately caught my attention. By coincidence, a position for an onboarding coordinator at Y Soft opened up soon after. I didn’t hesitate—Y Soft appealed to me as a company, and I saw this role as a great opportunity to combine working with people with my growing interest in technology.
Building Expertise and Embracing Change
At first, my role was clear: helping new employees smoothly integrate into the company. But as I settled in, I became involved in other areas. I soon became the link between HR and the team developing the internal onboarding application, Clerbo. This gave me valuable insight into product development from a user’s perspective.
As Y Soft evolved, so did my role. The HR team went through a transformation, opening doors for me to step into project management. I worked on strategic initiatives, improved processes, and strengthened the connection between HR and product development. But the biggest career shift was still ahead.
Entering the World of Product Management
When the Clerbo team was restructured and integrated under HR, I naturally became a key player in its further development. I took charge of customer support, worked closely with developers on improvements, acted as a sort of Scrum Master, and even participated in sales presentations, introducing Clerbo to potential clients.
This was a transformative period—I was no longer just supporting the product; I was actively shaping its future. With the support of colleagues and external mentors, I gradually transitioned into the role of Product Owner. I am now learning product strategy, understanding customer needs, and developing a business-oriented mindset. My main goal today is clear: to lead Clerbo toward further growth and innovation.
Inspiration, Support, and Growth
Beyond improving Clerbo and refining our internal processes, there is much more that keeps me at Y Soft. The trust and collaboration within our team is one aspect, but overall, I have the impression that Y Soft attracts intelligent, passionate, and highly skilled people. I enjoy working with them, solving challenges together, and learning from each person. It’s a highly inspiring environment. I never feel like I’m standing still, performing the same routine tasks.
My journey proves that change is an opportunity for growth. From academia to HR, from onboarding to product management—I am constantly learning and evolving. Y Soft has given me not just a job, but also a space for personal development and the opportunity to influence things I’m passionate about. And that is what matters most to me.
From the Office to a Quiet Retreat in Nature
While Y Soft is a big part of my life, it’s not everything. In my free time, I focus on my family—I have two children and strive to balance my career with parenthood. Whenever possible, we escape to the countryside, where we take care of an old farmhouse—an ideal retreat from the fast-paced world of technology.
Scouting also plays a significant role in my life, something I have been involved in for many years. As a mentor and trainer, I help develop new leaders and organize educational programs. The values I gained in scouting—teamwork, adaptability, and lifelong learning—continue to guide me in my professional journey at Y Soft.
