Employee Spotlight – Milan Kesic
In our latest Employee Spotlight, we talk to Milan, a Backend Developer who has been part of Fleetondemand since December 2016. For over nine years, Milan has played a key role in the development of our ground transportation platform GT Suite, bringing both technical expertise and creative problem-solving to the system.
With a background ranging from graphic design to frontend and backend development, Milan combines a passion for IT with a commitment to continuous learning. His calm approach to challenges, collaborative spirit, and ability to adapt to new technologies, including the integration of AI into his work, make him a valued member of the development team.
Describe your current role and how long you’ve worked at FOD Mobility Group.
I’m a backend developer working on the GT Suite platform, helping to build and maintain the systems that power our technology. I joined Fleetondemand back in December 2016, so I’ve been here for nine years now.
Which projects are you currently working on?
Right now, my focus is on GT Suite. My work is all about making sure the application runs smoothly, securely, and efficiently behind the scenes.
What made you want to pursue your current career path?
I’ve always had a passion for IT. My journey actually began in graphic design, mainly in print media. Over time, I shifted into frontend development, back when it was mostly HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, before eventually moving into PHP and backend development.
Beyond coding itself, what I truly appreciate about this field is its flexibility and freedom. It’s allowed me to work remotely from various locations, often far from the headquarters of the companies I’ve collaborated with.
What do you find most rewarding about your role?
For me, it’s a mix of things. I enjoy the people I work with, the flexibility of the role, and, I’ll admit, the short commute! The balance between intellectually challenging tasks and the more routine elements is rewarding too. I like having both space for creative problem-solving and those moments where the work allows my mind to shift into a lower gear.
What have been your proudest moments at work to date?
Some of my proudest moments have been when we’ve faced urgent technical challenges and I’ve been able to help resolve them quickly. It’s always satisfying to know your work has made a real difference to the team and to our customers.
What’s one professional skill you’re working on?
I’m currently exploring how to integrate AI into my work. I think it has huge potential to support developers in working more efficiently and creatively.
What is the best professional advice you’ve ever received?
I can’t pinpoint a single piece of advice that stuck with me, but through experience I’ve learned some important lessons: always try to do your best, stay open to learning new things, and above all, be kind to the people you work with.
You’ve been with Fleetondemand for quite a while now, what’s one of your favourite memories from your time here?
During my first year, the CEO cooked curry for everyone. He actually brought in his own dishes and cooking equipment from home and spent the whole day preparing four different types of curry. I think he even baked naan bread! It was part of our regular social called ‘Friday Cheers’, and honestly, it’s still the best curry I’ve ever had. That memory has really stayed with me.
What do you hope to achieve over the next 12 months?
I want to keep making the GT Suite application more efficient, keep learning new things, and most importantly; enjoy the process while doing it.
How would your friends describe you?
That’s a tricky one! We’re friends, so of course they’d say nice things, but if I asked them directly, I’m sure it would turn into inappropriate jokes at my expense. Better to leave it to the imagination!
Can you describe the top 3 items on your bucket list?
I don’t really keep a formal bucket list, but one thing I’ve always wanted to do is rent a big sailing boat with all my friends and our families, and head out on a cruise together. The idea of mixing travel, adventure, and good company sounds like the perfect experience.
If you could meet anyone famous past or present, who would it be and why?
I’d love a combination of Snoop Dogg and American astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson. That way you’d have the fun and the humour from Snoop, paired with the fascinating insights and knowledge from Neil. It would make for a very memorable conversation!
Share a random fact about yourself.
My favourite food is a sandwich. Nothing beats fresh, warm bread filled with simple ingredients.
What are your top three favourite songs of all time?
I’d Rather Go Blind – Etta James
Clint Eastwood – Gorillaz
Hotel California – The Eagles
What did you want to be when you grew up and why?
I wanted to be a movie director. It seemed like the best way to channel my imagination and bring creative ideas to life.