As my time with Atlassian has wound up, I would like to indulge in some reflection on my 13 years with the company and offer up a thank you or two. I chose Atlassian because it looked like a fun company with a lot of smart people working there, and (this cannot be overstated) I could wear shorts to work. All these aspects never disappointed in my whole time there. The sheer volume of amazing humans that I worked with is staggering, a number that only grew with time as the company got larger and larger. I am grateful for everything the time has given me. I grew as a person, a leader, a technologist and a meme-understander (coming from a very low base). Earlier in my career, I could never have countenanced spending this much time at any one company, but Atlassian in my time there was many companies - the growth was constant and the opportunity offered was equally constant. To put things into perspective, the team that I led when I left was larger than the company I joined. I wish I could name all the people I've learned from, whose talent I've marvelled at, or had the immense pleasure of working with, but the crime of omission I would be committing by leaving anyone out would be unforgivable. Hopefully I've done some fraction of this thanks in person along the way. A special callout goes to the group of amazing managers that I've had through the years. You all know who you are, give yourselves a good hearty pat on the back. After this long in the game, I am taking some time to reflect and recharge (which is LinkedIn speak for think and nap). I'm always open to a coffee and a chat - I've enjoyed those I've had the last couple of weeks and look forward to more. Thank you to everyone who's reached out to me over this time, the support has been overwhelming.
Andre, love this post. It was great to work and collaborate with you in the early days at Atlassian. I loved it when I had the chance to be Sydney for team gatherings and work. You, Brendan, Nialls… great experience. If I ever get back to Sydney, I’ll take you up on that coffee. Many blessings to you and your family.
You certainly deserve a nap Andre 😀 I'm grateful for the time we got to work together at Atlassian and for the friendship we've continued since. I learned so many things from you, not least the wisdom of making early jokes in a town hall. One thing you omitted is the sheer impact you've had on the business and its people, and the trust you earned in the process. You are a standout leader.
Enjoy your well-earned break and time with the family 🥰
I said this in a message to you, you were always a leader I looked up to and admired. Enjoy the nap and what comes next.
Mate, it was amazing working with you and I'm gutted we lost you as a leader. Next time I'm in Sydney I'd love to catch up.
Thank you for your guidance and leadership. I’ve grown a lot and you had a lot to do with that. 🙇
It was so great working with you Andre - you’re certainly missed 💙
Thank you for everything you have done for the team in Poland. There are still many of us who remember and appreciate. Take care Andre ❤️ 🇵🇱
Enjoy your well earned reflect and recharge time Andre Serna - I have no doubt you will end up doing something incredible but there's plenty of time for you to work that part out.
Highly approve of this self-reflection especially after an epic tenure there. Since writing is my outlet I wrote a lot when I left. I tend to remember my mistakes and not the successes so I had to intentionally chronicle all the good stuff. Sounds like you've done the same thing. It turns out to be a great thing because you will look back more fondly than just remembering what irritated you in the last 30 days. I was really lucky to get to work with you and I'm glad we're still in touch!And, ouch. I think I've sprained my shoulder again giving myself a pat on the back.