Shijeemon Abraham, systems manager at Pramerica, tells us how Ireland’s patient drivers are key to his enjoyment here.
Where are you from?
I am from Kerala, a small state on the southwest coast of India that’s famous for its natural beauty and backwaters. We have humid summers and really heavy rain during the monsoon season. The tropical greenery with backwaters and beaches makes Kerala a popular tourist destination.
Before coming to Ireland, I worked in Singapore for five years, but I didn’t enjoy the area. It’s a very densely populated city and life there was far too hectic.
How long have you been in Ireland?
I’ve lived in Ireland for more than nine years, and I’m enjoying every moment here.
Why did you move here?
My colleagues were working in Pramerica and the stories I heard from them about the company and the quality of life in Ireland were compelling. I believe that moving to Ireland and joining Pramerica was one of the best decisions I ever made. I’m enjoying a quality life here with my family and friends.
What work do you do?
I’m a systems manager at Pramerica. I lead a team of .Net, Java, Mainframe and Cognos developers. We architect, develop and support IT systems for the Prudential Investment Management business at Prudential, which is our parent company in the US.
How would you describe your working environment?
At Pramerica, I feel at home. It’s the best company I have ever worked for in my career. The employees help each other grow, and they honor their personal and professional commitments. The diverse culture and the positive energy make the Pramerica experience unique.
What do you like most about your job?
I thoroughly enjoy my team and the people with whom I work. We have an extremely talented, innovative and creative workforce. We inspire and help each other reach our career goals and each of us performs at our best. The work-life balance in the company is great. In fact, we are one of the top 15 Best Workplaces in Ireland and top 25 in Europe, and we’re proud of it!
Was it difficult to adjust to living and working in Ireland?
I didn’t find it difficult at all. The very first thing I noticed when I arrived in Letterkenny is that the local people are very helpful and welcoming. They care for and respect each other.
What surprised you about moving to Ireland?
It was really surprising to see how patient the Irish people are, giving way to others in traffic. They had time to wait for other vehicles, pedestrians and cyclists. The other thing that really surprised me was the weather. Where else can you experience every season in one day?
How does your working life help to make you feel at home here?
There is nothing like being home with your parents and siblings, but the people I work with and the local people I interact with make me feel at home. My kids are going to school here and are very much part of the local community with their friends and families.
What do you like most about your adopted home?
I love the natural beauty of Ireland and the wonderful people here.
