Mar 13, 2023
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Accelo is a global company with clients around the world, but we are also a global team. A number of our team members are proud Ukrainians, and while like the rest of the world we have been angered by Russia's unprovoked and unjustified invasion of Ukraine and their killing of civilians, we are also scared for the safety of our team members in Kyiv and Odessa. Even though Accelo has been watching and planning for several months in anticipation of possible support disruptions, it has still been shocking to see our team members' world change in an instant and to know that they are in grave danger.
Unfortunately, our ability to help directly is very limited. We have encouraged our colleagues to take whatever steps they need to remain out of harm's way and are showing our overwhelming support for the stability of their careers with Accelo as well as finding creative ways to ensure they can continue to be paid.
As a global team, we are used to working remotely. Although we are headquartered in Denver, Colorado, we have colleagues across the U.S., in British Columbia, Vancouver, Montreal, Cairo, Serbia, Buenos Aires and of course our Engineering and Success teams in Wollongong, Australia. We know how to stay productive, collaborate and excel in a remote world, but when taking on the lead role in Customer Success last year, I knew that creating personal connections between our Ukrainian team and our other global teams would only further strengthen our ability to work together supporting clients. Getting to know the team on a personal level has built stronger bonds, both personally and professionally.
They are all outstanding, young professionals I am proud to lead.
Accelo strongly condemns the war waged against the sovereign country of Ukraine by Russia, and for me, this is deeply personal as I’ve grown to know and respect these colleagues and friends who have worked tirelessly for the benefit of our company and our clients. I pray for them every day, that they can escape this violence and be given the opportunity to rebuild their lives, bring their nation back from the brink of tyranny and resume the freedom they once enjoyed.
Our friends and colleagues need help. Here are a few sites we trust to make donations where we are confident the funds will be put to proper use.
About the Author
Robert Germain is Vice President of Client Success at Accelo, where he manages the Professional Services, Customer Success and Support teams. With over 30 years in client-facing roles in the IT Managed Services and SaaS industries, Robert builds and mentors industry-leading teams to reach achievable yet ambitious business goals while always seeking to enhance the service experience for his clients.