What does it take to build a career that blends adaptability, curiosity and a passion for people? For Filippos, it started with a spontaneous job application on a ferry and evolved into a dynamic role as Office Manager for Greece. In this interview, they share their unique path at FREENOW, the challenges and rewards of their role and what makes our workplace culture truly special.
First, we'd like to get to know you better! Tell us a unique or surprising fact about yourself that most people don’t know.
I applied for FREENOW while on a ferry back to Athens from the stunning island of Tinos in September 2021. At the time, I was considering moving back to Greece from Germany, where I had completed my master’s degree in Medical Anthropology. While scrolling through social media in the ferry lounge, I came across a job ad for a German-speaking customer care role at Beat, then operating in Greece, near the neighborhood I grew up in. A few weeks later, I was back in Athens for good and at FREENOW.
Let's talk about your FREENOW journey! What’s your professional background, when did you join, and what’s your role here?
My journey has been quite an unorthodox one. Drawn to both sciences and humanities, I first studied biology, but my love for the humanities led me to a master’s in Medical Anthropology. While in Germany for my studies, I also learned German fluently, which unexpectedly led to my first full-time role in October 2021 as a German-speaking Customer Care Executive at FREENOW.
From day one, I was amazed by the modern, inclusive, and international work environment. I wanted to explore the corporate world outside of academia, and the vibrant office culture and incredible team made me want to stay in Customer Care. There, I discovered my passion for operations, attention to detail, problem-solving, and working with diverse teams.
After a year, I set my sights on a role where I could make a greater impact. Following nearly three years in Customer Care, several market experiences, and multiple attempts at internal roles, I finally transitioned to Office Manager for Greece. The process was slow but steady, made possible by the guidance of my peers, especially a Talent Acquisition specialist who helped me refine my approach after each interview.
As Office Manager, I love shaping and maintaining a positive workplace environment, which was one of the key things that made me love FREENOW from the start. My role is people-focused and diverse, spanning administration, building maintenance, HR and IT. This variety keeps my days dynamic and allows me to make a real difference for our employees.
What are some of the unique challenges or exciting aspects of your role?
One of the biggest challenges of being an Office Manager is juggling multiple responsibilities at once. On a busy day, I might have a guest and a supplier at the entrance, a stakeholder on the phone, someone needing help in the office, and a virtual meeting I am running late for, all at the same time.
Another challenge I love is finding ways to engage all employees, despite their different personalities. To me, that is the essence of inclusivity. Bit by bit, I see the office culture I envision taking shape, one built on mutual respect and coexistence, where people feel safe to share ideas, express anxieties, and even be a little goofy. Most importantly, it is a place where we come together to do great things.
What’s your favorite aspect of working at FREENOW?
The company values and office culture. That is what makes working here so fulfilling. As a queer person, I have always felt included, respected, and valued. I have also had the opportunity to learn from colleagues with incredible knowledge and experience, especially in operations.
What advice would you give to someone considering joining the FREENOW team?
If you see a role that fits you, go for it! You will find a great work environment, opportunities for growth, and plenty to learn, not just about mobility but beyond.