Aspire, a company based in Jordan, has joined the Astek Group as a subsidiary in order to strengthen its offshore delivery capabilities on a global scale and accelerate its expansion in the Middle East.
Meet Ghassan Al Mousa
“I came to Aspire because I had heard a lot of good things about it at the time. I had a friend who worked in the Web Content team here and he told me about the strong level of employee recognition and the healthy work environment. These two elements really encouraged me to apply.”
Meet Ghassan Al Mousa, quality analyst, amateur writer, and salsa and tango dancer.
Why did you choose IT?
I chose IT for both personal and professional reasons. I studied computer science because it was the most promising sector in Jordan at the time, and it still is. However, my journey at Aspire over the years has not always been strictly focused on pure IT.
What excites you most about your field?
What excites me is the constant and unlimited new opportunities that are always available, as well as the new technologies that are continuously emerging.
Why Aspire?
I came to Aspire because I had heard many positive things about it. A friend working in the Web Content team told me about employee recognition and the healthy work environment. These two points were key factors in my decision to apply.
What does your typical day look like?
I wake up and generally get ready quite quickly to go straight to work. I start with production testing, then I perform smoke tests on all the websites I am responsible for to ensure they are functioning correctly. After that, I handle routine tasks and operational tickets. 70% of the time, I go out with friends after work to chat and eat. The remaining 30% is spent either in dance studios practicing Latin and ballroom dances or playing video games.
What do you like most about the company?
Many things, but what I appreciate the most is Aspire’s long-term commitment to its employees. They don’t treat employees like commodities, unlike most companies. Many people have been here for a very long time, so we consider this place a second home. Aspire values people who give their best; we are seen as a strong long-term investment. Management has a very good vision for the future, it is aware that things evolve and is ready to adapt.
What is your favorite movie or series?
It may sound strange, but I have two: The Matrix and The Notebook — very contradictory, I know! My favorite series is House MD.
What do you do in your free time?
On weekends, if I’m not relaxing at home, I take part in several activities like Toastmasters, or I study to improve my personal skills, write stories, or go out with friends. I also dance whenever I can.
What was your path to your current role at Aspire?
When I joined Aspire 12 years ago, I started as a customer support agent on a temporary 2-month contract. After that, I received a permanent offer and, a year later, I became a customer support supervisor. The following year, I was given the opportunity to work as a business analyst with a new client in Texas for about 2 years. I then returned to customer support as a team leader. In 2011, I had the opportunity to build a brand-new team from scratch for a project called Telecom Expense Management. The team started with 4 people, including myself, and grew to 23 people. I managed this project until 2018, when I decided to refresh my IT knowledge by moving into a quality analyst role, which I am really enjoying so far.
Something that would surprise your colleagues?
Aside from the fact that I dance salsa and tango, I love listening to horror stories.
If you were an animal, what would you be and why?
An eagle, because it is known for its sharpness and speed. In some cultures, it is said to fly above problems and rise above challenges. I relate a lot to the eagle.
You have 10 seconds to impress someone. What do you say?
I can cook, sing, and dance… are you impressed yet?
What is your favorite song or singer?
It’s hard to pick a song, but I love Frank Sinatra and Michael Bublé.
What is something you want to do before it’s too late?
I want to travel to the Amazon rainforest. I love nature and traveling. The Amazon is the perfect place where you can completely get lost. The idea of spending a month or two there is very tempting, as long as I stay alive and don’t get killed!
A particular moment in your career that stands out?
The period between 2011 and 2014 was a time of huge growth for both me and the company, especially within my team.
What are your ambitions for Aspire?
I hope to launch a new team with a new client to benefit Aspire and the client even more.
If a genie granted you three wishes, what would they be?
1- Having 1 billion US dollars.
2- Going on a space यात्रा and being able to visit space.
3- Producing a movie that becomes a huge success (a personal dream).
What is your greatest personal achievement?
Over the past three years, I have lost 130 kg, going from being severely obese to someone almost slim. It improved everything in my life and I am very proud of myself.
What is your greatest professional achievement?
Managing the Telecom Expense Management department.
What superpower would you like to have?
Telekinesis; being able to move or manipulate objects at a distance sounds pretty cool.
If you could only eat one thing for the rest of your life?
Pizza, all varieties, but if I had to choose just one, I would pick the “4 Seasons,” it’s my favorite.
What is your philosophy of life?
Life will hit you hard, and you will never be able to hit as hard as it does. Strength does not lie in your ability to hit hard, but in your ability to take the hits and keep moving forward.