Author: Viliana Staneva

For the past months, multiple teams across SiteGround — engineers, designers, product managers, QA specialists — have been tirelessly working toward a shared goal: the launch of our Ecommerce Platform. It started with a complete redesign of our Website Builder with a grid-based drag-and-drop editor that gives users full creative control over their site, and on top of it, they layered a full set of tools for online store building and management. Why? To let anyone go from zero to a working online store without plugins, third-party tools, or weeks of setup. On March 17, both went live.

True to our mission to help anyone, anywhere, manage a complete online presence with ease, we built both platforms entirely in-house, from scratch. But how did we make it happen? We asked the two main leads behind the development: Hristo Pandjarov, Product Innovation Director, and George Penkov, Engineering Director. 

What was the single biggest bet we made with the Website Builder & Ecommerce Platform, the one decision that shaped everything else?

Hristo: Honestly, it was our decision not to compromise on quality and excellence, regardless of how much development that required.

In the early stages of planning and development, we explored using existing solutions, but we quickly realized that nothing available would meet our needs or deliver the architectural quality we required. So we started from scratch and built on the knowledge we’ve gathered over two decades of hosting websites at the scale and quality we’re known for.

What does ‘from zero to launching an online store in hours, not weeks’ actually require on the engineering side?

George: Having been in web development for 20+ years, it still amazes me how many setup steps are now engineered away: like getting an SSL certificate, setting up DNS records, installing a CMS, and many more. And that’s before you even think about content. Nowadays, even choosing a domain name is simplified with the power of AI. A couple of clicks and you have a fully set-up website. But on the engineering side, all the steps users used to do manually still need to happen.

To build this seamless experience, we built our Ecommerce Platform on top of SiteGround’s already optimized hosting infrastructure— the same one powering over 3 million domains worldwide.

So, we had the infrastructure in place, then it was all about the content. Underneath our simple Ecommerce Builder, where you choose a ready-made template and customize every element to your liking, sits a robust page-editing and rendering engine. We designed its persistence model to prioritize a mature desktop application feel with keyboard handling, undo/redo stacks, zero latency, and generative AI support. Imagine editing a Google Doc, but for your entire website – everything feels instant, you can undo any mistake, and AI is right there to help.

And finally, on top of all that, comes the e-commerce set of tools, including product management, order management, customer profiles, analytics, marketing, shipping, payments, taxes, and more. Implementing all of those features is a monumental engineering effort, and at the same time, the UX is just as critical — because if a user can’t navigate their dashboard, every store update becomes a headache. We are tackling this challenge with several layers of systems to help. Most of the focus is on the initial steps: a templating feature to give you a complete website in a click, a guided tour through your first steps, and we will soon add a very helpful AI assistant that can handle most tasks across the entire vertical with just a prompt.

What’s the hardest problem your team solved that users will never even notice?

Hristo: Our biggest challenge was to strike a balance between maintaining the platform’s simplicity and adding all the necessary functionalities. That’s something a lot of other platforms neglect as they ship countless features, and, in the end, website owners are stuck with an overly complicated interface. 

George: The fluidity of actually using the Website Builder and E-commerce Platform. Users see a desktop app-like experience — instant previews when dragging the color picker, responsive undo and redo, and complex tasks like dragging, resizing, and arranging elements that feel as smooth as using a graphic design tool. That fluidity was essential, and it took serious engineering effort to achieve. We didn’t just need to make it work — we needed to make it feel effortless, so there’s zero frustration when building a site.

We have more features coming soon that will streamline online store management even further with a helpful AI assistant that can handle most tasks across the entire workflow with just a prompt.

With all the platforms for online store building, why did you decide to build one as well?

Hristo: For the past 20+ years, we’ve been striving to empower small businesses and entrepreneurs to succeed online. We saw that in the landscape of tools, many focus on a rich set of functionalities that overwhelm users, and instead of simplifying processes, they create more bottlenecks. So we focused our efforts on simplifying and streamlining each of the e-commerce business pillars: product management, payments, deliveries, and taxes. This way, we strive to make it easy for anyone without a technical background to build a fully functional website on their own. Our main goal was to support businesses by letting them focus on generating revenue rather than managing their websites.

Our mission is the success of our clients

This launch isn’t just about a new platform. It’s about enabling people all around the world to achieve more without dealing with the technical complexity. Because there are no bad business ideas — just ones that never make it past the idea stage.

If you want to be part of a team where every decision enables millions of users around the globe to create their successful online business, apply to our open positions.

Building a strong team spirit and a genuine sense of belonging is never easy. When SiteGround first started, we were a small but ambitious team with a true startup mindset. But how do you preserve that same closeness when there are more than 550 experts, spread across different countries, teams, and generations? That challenge rests largely on the shoulders of our Events team – the people who craft experiences that bring our global community together.

Their work shines brightest during our Team Festivals – the moments when the entire SiteGround family comes together. Today, we’re taking you behind the scenes for an exclusive look at how it all comes together. Meet our Events Managers, who recently led our latest Team Retreat – a special event that unites 500+ SiteGrounders to share hobbies, learn new things, spark ideas, and truly connect.

From wild logistics to heartfelt teamwork, it’s clear that every event has its surprises. Here is how our events look like: 

We sat down with them to learn what it really takes to shape SiteGround’s culture through events, and how their roles have evolved as the company has grown.

Q1: To set the stage, what’s something about your job that would surprise people?

Ramelina: I guess it would be the fact that I never get tired of my work. Every time I’m organizing an internal event, I’m genuinely excited to see my colleagues’ smiles. That excitement keeps me going—I’ve never felt exhausted, even when I’m holding flower scissors in my hand, removing vinyl from fences after only three hours of sleep. I truly love every minute of it.

Stanislava: The best thing about organizing events is that you never know what wild idea or unexpected task you’ll get involved in. For example, last year for our Team Festival, we had to find 30 huge water tanks to create a light installation, which led me to research where to rent water containers from! This year, we brought a giant floating SiteGround logo all the way to Greece and installed it in a pool. People are often surprised that all of these diverse projects are handled entirely in-house. And honestly, that’s one of the things I love most about being an Events Manager.

Q2: But beyond the behind-the-scenes hustle, how do these experiences actually shape SiteGround’s culture?

Ramelina: When you look at typical team-building photos or videos from different companies and then compare them to ours, you instantly see the difference. Our motto, “Never Bored. Never Boring.” isn’t just a marketing slogan, but a true reflection of who we are. Everything we create is by us, for us, driven by the creativity and enthusiasm of our colleagues across departments. That’s what makes our events so authentic and full of energy.

Stanislava: SiteGround’s annual Team Festival perfectly captures our team spirit. It brings together collaboration across many departments – Designers, Office managers, IT experts, Social media team and Creative teams, Accounting, Legal, and more. During the festival, it’s our own team members who lead the main workshops like 3D printing, electronics, handicrafts, sports activities, and many others. Despite everyone’s different day-to-day roles, we all become part of the ‘festival crew.’ This approach allows us to create something truly special, and everyone can feel it.

Q3: What’s one story from an event that perfectly captures the spirit of teamwork here?

Ramelina: One story? Impossible. There are dozens of them. However, the fact that we gather every year for a team photo, with all 500+ people coming together, and we’re still not bored from calling out “SiteGround” with broad smiles, speaks for itself. 

Q4: How do you measure the success of an internal event? 

Stanislava: There are many common event metrics like attendance rates, social media engagement, or post-event surveys. However, since events are inherently emotional, I prefer to focus on the energy that lingers afterward. What I see is people buzzing with excitement – sharing videos, photos, and stories.

And perhaps most importantly, our festivals often spark new friendships. This is especially important for new colleagues, who instantly feel included and connected. I know that from personal experience. When I joined SiteGround, it was just before a team event, and it helped me feel at home from the very start.

Q5: As SiteGround continues to grow, how have the challenges you face as an organizing team changed?

Ramelina: When there were fewer than a hundred people, it was easy to think about what everyone might enjoy. Now, with more than 500 colleagues, we have to focus on what will appeal to the majority, while still making sure each person feels included and seen. That’s a tough balance to strike. But because our events are created by us, for us, and always infused with positivity, the result is inevitably something special.

Stanislava: With such a large and diverse team, it’s impossible to match everyone’s taste in a single event, especially when it comes to the music lineup. But the beauty of SiteGround’s diversity is that it brings so many hidden talents together. So we turn the challenge of diversity into an advantage by including our own colleagues in the lineup. For example, our amazing rock band, made up entirely of SiteGround team members from Tech Support, AI Development, DevOps, and QA teams, rocks the stage every year. We even have DJ sets performed by one of our Product Owners! And one more from the Customer Care team! 

Q6: What is the biggest value of investing in memorable internal events?

Ramelina: Truly great internal events are a refreshing boost to our work-life balance. That’s why our team-buildings include a bit of everything – opportunities to learn something new, connect with nature, sing and dance, show your talents, and share your favorite hobbies. You even forget about your smartphone entirely and just enjoy being present with your teammates in real life.

Stanislava: SiteGround events remind me, and hopefully everyone, just how amazing the people we work with every day really are. They’re one of the things that truly set us apart because we pour our hearts into them, just like we do when creating our products and services. In the end, it’s these moments together that genuinely restore my faith in community and humanity in general.

We’ll leave you with a glimpse of the fun: check out our party photo gallery! And here’s a final thought from Ramelina that perfectly captures how our events shape SiteGround’s culture: “Creating only for work doesn’t work for long. You have to play. It’s a voyage, not a destination.”

P.S. Don’t forget to check out our Expert Spotlight series to get an inside look into different SiteGround departments!

Last summer, we tried something new. This summer, we did it again – and it felt even more special. For the second year in a row, our summer academy “SiteGrounder for 3 Days” brought the children of our employees into our world.

For three days, they weren’t just visitors. They became creators, explorers, and debaters of tomorrow. Thirteen teenagers, aged 14 to 19, joined us at our office. Together we explored technology, creativity, and the values that shape the future.

We loved watching their curiosity grow. 

On the first day, the teenagers explored “The Evolution of Skills” by experimenting with the SG AI Web Apps Generator to build personal web applications from scratch, used their creativity in AI-powered art workshops to create logos and banners for their businesses, and engaged in thought-provoking discussions about AI ethics – covering everything from deepfakes to data privacy. As one participant perfectly captured it: “The whole AI idea was very good. I liked it mostly when we had the option to build and edit things with AI – websites, businesses, logos, and pictures.” This feedback truly reflects the hands-on, creative approach that made our event so successful.

“At SiteGround, we work with advanced technology every day, but seeing how fresh eyes approached it was inspiring. They reminded us that technology is not just about tools. It’s about imagination”, shared Daniel Kanchev, SiteGround Product Development Director.

The second day was about conversation and challenges. Participants focused on “Humans vs AI Agents” and got hands-on experience with SiteGround’s AI tools, learning how AI can support rather than replace human work. The group then dove into an intensive debate skills workshop with the BEST Foundation, developing their critical thinking and public speaking abilities – skills that will be more crucial than ever in the AI era. “The debate was my favorite part”, one teenager shared. Another added, “The discussions about AI made me think about things I never thought about before.”

Their honesty impressed us. They didn’t just accept ideas; they questioned them. They asked: What role should AI play in our lives? How can we make sure business also cares about people and the planet? We organize such events because, as Gloriya Ilieva, Senior HR Generalist and organizer of this initiative, mentioned, “the curiosity and imagination of young people truly have no limits – they asked provocative questions, generated bold ideas, and showed genuine passion for technology. It’s incredibly inspiring to see the next generation preparing for the future with such enthusiasm and critical thinking.”

On the final third day, the teenagers put their newly acquired debate skills to the test in practice sessions before joining our panel discussion “Will AI Replace Your Job?” Here, our SiteGround colleagues shared invaluable insights about the evolving job market and future career opportunities.

In those moments, we saw more than skills. We saw confidence growing. We saw friendships forming. And we saw a new generation stepping into the future with courage and care.

At SiteGround, we believe that learning never stops. When we empower young people with skills and values, we don’t just prepare them for jobs. We prepare them for life. That’s why SiteGrounder for 3 Days matters.

As one of our mentors left on the last day, she overheard a student say, “I didn’t expect this to be so fun.” That single line was the best feedback we could ever receive.

At SiteGround, we believe the greatest impact on the future comes from investing in the people who will create it. That’s why we support the Institute for Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence and Technology (INSAIT) and its EXPLORER program – an initiative that gives bachelor students with a passion for informatics, AI, and deep technologies the chance to step into the world of AI research and development.

The program combines academic training at the Faculty of Mathematics and Informatics at Sofia University with research work at INSAIT. Students not only attend their courses at FMI, majoring in “Informatics,” while also working on some of INSAIT’s projects, but they also gain real practical experience early in their careers through summer internships in leading technology companies. Among the participants in EXPLORER, two matched our requirements for a summer internship at SiteGround – Nia Dimitrova and Nikolay Georgiev. With their background in mathematical linguistics and a focus on natural language processing (NLP) and large language models (LLMs), they joined our AI development team this summer as interns.

Talking to them makes one thing clear: the future of AI isn’t a distant vision. It’s unfolding now through their curiosity, ambition, and the projects they are already building.

Discovering a Passion for AI

When asked what sparked her interest in AI, Nia doesn’t hesitate:

I have always been interested in maths and informatics. What I love about AI is that you will never know enough about it—every day there is new research, a new study. It keeps you awake and gives you the opportunity to learn throughout your life.”

For Niki, it was the accessibility of computer science that drew him in at first, and AI made that journey even more exciting:

Inside INSAIT: Learning Beyond the Classroom

For Nia, INSAIT is more than a place of study: “It gives you the chance to do research during your studies and to meet very talented people. It’s a rare opportunity to grow surrounded by such inspiring minds.”

Niki agrees, pointing out how collaboration fuels progress: “This is an opportunity to observe and be part of research as it’s being shaped. AI is growing so fast that no single person can grasp it all. Being in teams of like-minded researchers and professionals is essential for everyone’s growth.”

The Future of AI Through Young Eyes

When looking ahead, both interns share a refreshingly hopeful perspective. Nia sees AI as a force for good: “I think AI’s future is bright, and it will be used to help people.”

Niki imagines a world where AI becomes as fundamental as electricity or the internet:

Why SiteGround Invests in Young Talent

At SiteGround, creating technology that empowers people also means empowering those who will shape tomorrow’s breakthroughs. Supporting INSAIT’s mission and welcoming young talents like Nia and Niki into our teams is part of our broader commitment to education, innovation, and the future of AI.

Because building the future isn’t just about writing code, it’s about nurturing the minds and ideas that will define what comes next.

We are thrilled to share some wonderful news: for the fourth time, SiteGround’s Customer Success team has been honored with a Bronze Stevie® Award in the Customer Service Department of the Year category in The 22st Annual International Business Awards®. 

This is the fourth time our customer success team has been recognized for its excellence by the The International Business Awards! In 2020 we were both voted Favorite Customer Service in the People’s Choice Stevie® Award, and awarded the Silver for Customer Service Department of the Year in the Computer Hardware & Services category. In the two consecutive years, 2023 and 2024, we won the Bronze Award in the Customer Department of the Year category.

With more than 3,800 nominations from 78 countries this year, being recognized again places us among the best of the best worldwide, and we could not be prouder. This recognition is more than just a trophy on the shelf. It is a celebration of the heart and soul our team puts into every single customer interaction. 

As one of the jury members wrote in their evaluation:

“SiteGround has successfully transformed its Customer Care model into a proactive, AI-enhanced Customer Success strategy. By combining human expertise with smart technologies, the team delivers personalized, multilingual support and anticipates customer needs.”

This quote captures something very close to our philosophy at SiteGround. Yes, we are proud to be innovators, and in recent years we have been carefully integrating AI in our support processes, while strengthening our human touch at the same time – making our service faster, smarter, and more proactive. But what truly sets us apart, and what our customers feel every day, is our genuine care and attention that we put in every interaction. This fourth Stevie® recognition is a testament not just to the technical expertise of our Customer Success team, but to their empathy, resilience, and the way they bring SiteGround’s values to life.

Reneta Tsankova, our Chief Operations Officer, put it beautifully:
“Awards are wonderful, but what matters most is the trust and gratitude we earn from our customers every single day. I am endlessly proud of our customer success team for combining innovation and humanity in a way that truly makes a difference. This Stevie is a recognition of their heart, their skill, and their unwavering commitment to excellence.”

Details about The International Business Awards and the lists of Stevie Award 2025 winners are available at www.StevieAwards.com/IBA. 

This March, we’re celebrating International Women’s Day by exploring the “soft” qualities that make women thrive in the tech world. Welcome to part three of our series #SoftPowerIsOurSuperpower, as we’re introducing four women, each one from a different SiteGround department to share with you how they transform common stereotypes into superpowers. 

Keep reading to meet up close Valentina Hadzhiyska, QA Engineer; Lina Asenova, Affiliate Manager; Rumina Mateva, Product Marketing Manager, and Yoana Yosifova, Customer Service Representative. 

Q1: Which stereotypically “soft” powers of yours do you consider your strongest qualities and why?

Lina, Affiliate Manager: “One of my strongest “soft” powers is communication – I can talk to just about anyone about anything, from the latest makeup trends to the mechanics of rocket science. I genuinely enjoy learning about different topics, which makes it easy to connect with people. But more than talking, I listen and adapt. Talking about adaptability, one of the biggest advantages I have is that change doesn’t scare me, it excites me. Whether it’s a completely new environment, a curveball in life, or a challenge I wasn’t expecting, I’ll roll with it and move forward with confidence. Finally, as a woman I thrive in time management. With a million things happening at once – and without a cloning machine – I’ve had to master the art of keeping it all together. Prioritizing tasks, staying focused, and getting things done without losing my sanity is a skill… and maybe a little bit of magic.”

“One of the strongest qualities in my day-to-day job as a customer service representative is empathy. When someone reaches out because their website is down or experiencing issues, they’re often stressed, frustrated, or even panicked. It’s only natural to me to try and put myself in their shoes and be patient so I can reassure them that together, we can find a solution.” – Yoana, Customer Service Representative

Rumina, Product Marketing Manager: “I naturally gravitate toward emotions and storytelling, which helps me make ideas more relatable and engaging. I’ve found that when you frame a message in a way that resonates emotionally, it sticks with people. It’s something I’m always working to refine, but I’ve seen how powerful it can be in shaping how products are perceived and adopted.”

Q2: How do you turn a stigma into an opportunity?

“Stigmas often stem from underestimation. Often, what’s seen as a weakness is just something that hasn’t been fully understood or valued yet. For example, emotions in business are sometimes seen as a distraction, but in reality, they’re what drive decisions. By focusing on how emotions shape behavior, I’ve been able to approach marketing in a way that feels more natural and human.” – Rumina

Lina: “One of the most persistent stigmas about women is that we’re too emotional – like it’s a flaw. But in reality, and especially in affiliate management, it gives me an edge. I don’t work with just data and numbers – I work with people. Understanding their needs, motivations, and challenges helps me build trust and create meaningful relationships.”

Q3: What makes a woman particularly great at your job?

Yoana: “From my experience, customers don’t just want a fix- they want to feel heard and understood. Women’s ability to sense emotions and assess situations from a human perspective makes us exceptionally effective in this role. Additionally, women are natural multitaskers, capable of managing multiple issues at once while maintaining the high quality of our amazing support.”

 “Women notice and remember everything, and I mean… everything. And yes, that includes something you said ten years ago. But here’s the thing – people love to feel seen and remembered. When you’re constantly working with partners remembering their business goals, a conversation from months ago, or even how they take their coffee, matters. These details are what builds trust and turns connections into real human relationships.” – Lina

Q4: If you could give one piece of advice to your younger self, who was just starting out, what would it be?

Rumina: “I’d say to trust the learning process and not stress so much about getting everything right from the start. The best insights come from experience, and it’s okay to take time to figure things out. So, trust the power of your instincts and don’t be afraid to lean into what makes you different—that’s where the best ideas come from.”

“Women are great at balancing technical skills with good communication, fostering teamwork, and bringing diverse perspectives. If I could go back and give my younger self one piece of advice, it would be, “Trust your instincts and speak up — your perspective is valuable from day one.” – Valentina

Yoana: “When I first started, I sometimes felt the need to prove that I could handle technical challenges as well as anyone else. However, over time, I realized that my ability to empathize with customers, communicate clearly, and solve problems efficiently was just as valuable as deep technical knowledge.”

And that’s a wrap of our #SoftPowerisOurSuperPower series. In the course of our interviews with 13 remarkable ladies from various SIteGround departments, we showed you all the little and soft aspects that make women truly thrive in the tech world. 

If you missed part 1 and part 2, check them out now for even more inspiration. 

Don’t forget that your success depends on the place and culture you find yourself in. So, in case you’re ready to join a team, where everyone is empowered to own and develop their own strengths, head to our open positions and join us so we can grow together.

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SoftPowerisOurSuperpower: How Women Thrive in Tech | Part One

SoftPowerisOurSuperpower: How Women Thrive in Tech | Part Two

This March, we’re celebrating International Women’s Day by exploring the “soft” qualities that make women thrive in the tech world. Welcome to part two of our series #SoftPowerIsOurSuperpower, as we’re introducing four women, each one from a different SiteGround department to share with you how they transform common stereotypes into superpowers. 

Keep reading to meet up close Nadezhda Gavadinova, Senior Motion Designer; Desislava Koleva, Front-End Developer; Stela Kostadinova, Social Media Manager; and Sonya Terzieva, HR Business Partner.

Q1: Which stereotypically “soft” powers of yours do you consider your strongest qualities and why?

Stela, Social Media Manager: “Being social and emotional has helped me communicate effectively with colleagues across teams. Marketing is never a one-man show, so finding common ground and truly understanding different perspectives is the make-or-break moment for every marketing campaign.”

“Active listening – because it forms the foundation of effective communication and relationship-building. And It helps me better understand people. Employees come to HR with diverse needs – whether it’s related to job satisfaction, career growth, or personal challenges. When people feel heard and understood, it fosters an open, honest workplace culture where everyone is comfortable sharing their thoughts and concerns.” – Sonya, HR Business Partner

Dessy, Front-End Developer: “Empathy is what helps me genuinely connect with my team and see the world through their eyes. Even though I may seem quieter in meetings, I use that time to listen deeply and contribute thoughtfully. Also, some may call me emotional both in and out of work, but I try to embrace it as a gift that makes me more collaborative and supportive.”

Q2: How do you turn a stigma into an opportunity?

“In a judgemental world like ours, it’s imperative to remember to stay confident and true to yourself despite the stigma and slowly but surely transform it into a powerful motivator to exceed expectations. In other words, I think it’s a chance to prove to the world that competence and ability know no gender boundaries.” – Dessy

Sonya: “In HR, stigmas often label us as mere rule enforcers. I turn that around by prioritizing engagement and culture-building. By showcasing HR as a strategic partner, I transform misconceptions into opportunities that drive both employee satisfaction and business success.”

Q3: What makes a woman particularly great at your job?

Sonya: “Women excel in HR because of our high emotional intelligence and empathy. These skills allow us to foster a positive workplace culture and effectively navigate conflict, creating environments where every employee can thrive.”

“Patience is essential. In motion design, it takes both patience and creativity to plan and implement projects. Whether it’s perfecting every keyframe’s easing or brainstorming on an eye-candy transition, the ability to stay calm and focused makes all the difference.” – Nadezhda

Stela: “Creativity and emotion are often seen as weaknesses in the workplace. But in marketing, these qualities are key—they allow us to evoke strong feelings and think beyond conventional boundaries, leading to campaigns that truly resonate.”

Q4: If you could give one piece of advice to your younger self, who was just starting out, what would it be?

Nadezhda: “Don’t let anyone dim your ambitions. Trust the process and stay consistent.”

“Speak your mind. You owe it to yourself to voice your idea out loud because it always could be the winning idea or your next opportunity to receive feedback that will help you grow.” – Stela

Dessy: “Stay resilient and never lose trust in your abilities. Hard work and dedication will eventually blossom into success.”

In these stories, a powerful narrative unfolds—a journey where every “soft” quality is redefined as a cornerstone of strength. From embracing open communication and creativity to transforming stigmas into opportunities and championing resilience, our women leaders illustrate that true power lies in authenticity and emotional intelligence.

As we continue our series, stay tuned for Part Three, where we delve further into how these qualities drive innovation across other technical and operational roles at SiteGround. If you’re ready to be part of a workplace that celebrates your unique strengths, check out our open positions and join our journey.

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SoftPowerisOurSuperpower: How Women Thrive in Tech | Part One

In the spirit of International Women’s Day, we’ve set out to reveal how women here at SiteGround are transforming what some dismiss as “soft” qualities into the superpowers that drive innovation and excellence.

Welcome to our March series, #SoftPowerIsOurSuperpower. Over the course of three blog posts, we’ll share our talks with 13 remarkable women from different departments at SiteGround. We’ll show you how those women defy stereotypical qualities and turn them into the foundation of creative problem-solving and leadership in even the most technical roles.

In this first piece, we introduce you to Alexandra Chariyska, Front-End Development Team Lead, Sofia Kostova, Finance Analyst; Tsvetomira Trifonova, Product Owners Team Lead; Desislava Angelova, DevOps Engineer; and Katerina Nikolova, CRM Manager.

Q1: Which stereotypically “soft” powers of yours do you consider your strongest qualities and why?

Desislava Angelova, DevOps Engineer: “One of my strongest ‘soft’ qualities is attention to detail. In the DevOps field, details that might seem insignificant at first glance can have a huge impact on system stability and security. That’s why I approach every step – from configuration and automation to monitoring – with precision.”

“In product management, it’s crucial to walk in your customer’s shoes, feeling their pain and finding solutions for a better journey. Then, take the same walk with your team colleagues from every department involved – design, development, legal, management, etc. Without empathy and the ability to walk in other people’s shoes, clashes are inevitable, and product development turns to chaos.” – Tsvetomira, Product Owners Team Lead

Sofia Kostova, Finance Analyst: “My attention to detail is like a crystal ball that helps me foresee potential challenges and opportunities. It’s a crucial skill that allows me to anticipate risks, prepare effectively, and uncover the story hidden within the numbers on a simple spreadsheet.”

Q2: How do you turn a stigma into an opportunity?

Alexandra: “It’s important to recognize that the stigma doesn’t define you; it is part of your experience, and it can be used as motivation to prove to yourself and others that you are more than what they see or assume.”

Sofia: “I transform the stigma that women worry too much into an opportunity by embracing the stereotype. This way, I can weave a safety net and ensure that I am always ready to pivot and adapt if needed.”

Q3: What makes a woman particularly great at your job?

Tsvetomira: “Our empathy and more gentle approach, especially in high-pressure situations with tight deadlines and last-minute changes, helps women thrive in Project Management.”

“A woman excels in a team lead role thanks to her constant balancing between strong technical expertise and being a good listener. This helps us create a supportive work environment where everyone grows, and each team member’s strengths are leveraged.” – Alexandra

Q4: If you could give one piece of advice to your younger self, who was just starting out, what would it be?

Alexandra: “If I could give advice to my younger self, who was hesitant to speak up or share ideas, I would tell her to stop worrying so much about what others think. Because growth happens when you step outside your comfort zone.”

“Your perspective matters more than you think because you might have a fresh take on patterns veterans have become blind to. This makes your ideas extremely valuable.” – Katerina

Desislava: “Never give up when facing difficulties—approach each challenge with determination and a methodical mindset until it becomes just another successfully conquered obstacle.”

Sofia: “Embrace your natural tendencies to think deeply and thoroughly. While it might feel like unnecessary overthinking at times, this quality will become one of your greatest strengths in your career.”

If you’re eager to join a place where your unique strengths are celebrated, and you’re encouraged to push boundaries while growing professionally, join us. Check our open positions and start your journey with us.

Meanwhile, stay tuned for Part 2 of our series with SiteGround Women, who redefine stereotypes in tech.

The idea behind the circuit board in unicorn shape

At SiteGround, we believe in nurturing the curiosity and creativity of future generations through engaging, hands-on experiences. One of the most fulfilling aspects of our community involvement is our collaboration with Uni for Kids: scientists, inventors, engineers, educators and entrepreneurs, inspiring young people to discover and develop their talents in science, art and the arts. With their help we inspire young learners across the country to ignite their passion for technology and innovation. 

Our friends from Uni for Kids designed circuit boards shaped like the SiteGround unicorn and it has inspired more than 300 kids (so far) across the country for STEM. 

This kid’s workshop was so successful, we decided to challenge the grown-ups as well! We started with our own team during our amazing 2024 SiteGround Team Festival! From there the idea grew into turning them into Christmas tree decoration – and some of our lucky partners got one hand-made especially for them from SiteGround for Holidays 2024!

Supporting Sofia Science Festival 

Continuing our mission to spark an early interest in STEM, we proudly supported an Electronics Workshop at the Sofia Science Festival on May 11 and 12 at Sofia Tech Park. This workshop was part of the “Engineers in Action” event and offered kids from 1st to 12th grade a chance to build their own circuit boards shaped like the SiteGround unicorn. It was an incredible opportunity for young minds to dive into the world of electronics in a playful, interactive way. 

Regional Technology Forum “Engineers in Action” in Varna & Plovdiv

Our involvement with Uni for Kids extends to supporting events like the Varna & Plovdiv Regional Technology Forum “Engineers in Action”. This forum allows hundreds of kids a day filled with:

Robotics and 3D modeling competitions for students, featuring challenges such as line-following and track navigation.

A youth tech expo showcasing scientific and technological projects by students.

Hands-on workshops in electronics, 3D modeling, and automation.

A career fair with presentations by partner companies, offering students insight into real-world tech career paths.

One of the standout attractions was of course our Electronics Workshop, where kids can once again build their own SiteGround unicorn circuit boards—a fun challenge that taps into their creativity and problem-solving skills.

Hosting Teach for Bulgaria: A Special Visit to Our Office

On June 4, we had the pleasure of welcoming 15 third-grade students from the local school in Dinkata Village, Pazardzhik, for a unique SiteGround Day. This event, hosted in partnership with Teach for Bulgaria, was designed to inspire these bright 9-year-olds with a blend of fun and educational activities.

The highlight of the day was our Unicorn Workshop, where the children built their very own unicorn circuit boards. This hands-on activity not only introduced them to basic electronics but also gave them the joy of creating something tangible. The excitement in the room was palpable, punctuated by bursts of laughter as the children brought their creations to life.

Adding to the experience, SiteGround team members Yasen Kiprov and Sophia Lasheva shared inspiring stories about how childhood dreams, combined with dedication and hard work, can become reality. Their talks sparked conversations and encouraged the students to envision a future where they could pursue their passions fearlessly.

Looking Ahead

At SiteGround, we are more than just a tech company; we are active participants in shaping the future by fostering a love for learning and innovation in young minds. These initiatives with Uni for Kids are just one way we contribute to our community, empowering the next generation of tech enthusiasts to dream big and achieve more.

Join us in supporting and celebrating the future tech leaders. Let’s continue to inspire and be inspired!

At SiteGround, we are beyond proud to share that our founding member, Ivo Tzenov, has been honored as the first-ever winner into the “Bulgarian Entrepreneurs Hall of Fame.” 

This recognition came during a glamorous gala at the National Theatre, where leading figures in the business world gathered to celebrate excellence and vision. This event, organized by The Bulgarian Entrepreneurial Association (BESCO), marks the start of a tradition aimed at acknowledging entrepreneurs who not only build successful ventures but uphold values that inspire future generations. 

For us at SiteGround, this award symbolizes the hard work, resilience, and commitment that Ivo has shown since the very foundation of our team. From our roots as a small startup, over 20 years ago, to becoming a global leader in web hosting technologies, his passion for innovation and people-first philosophy has defined who we are. 

A Journey Built on Empowering Others

In an emotional speech to over 600 attendees, Ivo Tzenov reminded us all what truly matters in business: “The most valuable thing we can do is inspire and empower people to create. We started by fostering this freedom within SiteGround, and later expanded our impact through our foundation. Today, I’m grateful to BESCO for supporting not just us but all entrepreneurs in Bulgaria.” He spoke with the conviction that building opportunities for others is a responsibility that drives progress, not just within a company but throughout the community. 

An Event Honoring Bulgaria’s Pioneers 

Ivo’s recognition was part of an evening that celebrated leaders across multiple industries. Over 100 nominations were considered for the award, with only five people reaching the final vote of a jury cоmprized by BESCO’s main partners over the years: more than 80 prominent personalities from the Bulgarian entrepreneurial ecosystem, including experienced investors and successful entrepreneurs. 

The five honorees included: 

• Hristo Hristov, CEO of Darik Radio, who transformed the media landscape with innovative news platforms. 
• Mihail Stoychev and Georgi Petrov, whose work with SMS Bump and NitroPack has reshaped digital marketing, achieving significant milestones in just a few short years. 
• Svilen and Konstantin Rangelovi, the creative minds behind Dronamics, developers of the world’s first cargo drone, “Black Swan,” showcasing Bulgaria’s potential for world-class technological achievements. 
• Raycho Raychev, founder of EnduroSat, who has pushed the boundaries of space technology, collaborating with giants like SpaceX. 

The Power of Community and Shared Values

BESCO’s CEO, Dobromir Ivanov, spoke to the essence of entrepreneurship in Bulgaria: “Entrepreneurs are united by their values. For them, success isn’t just what they achieve for themselves but what they give back to others.” This sentiment echoes our own culture at SiteGround, where teamwork, mentorship, and a commitment to fostering talent are woven into our fabric. We believe, like Ivanov, in the principle of “give back & pay forward.” 

More Than an Award 

Ivo Tzenov’s induction into the Hall of Fame is a testament to the journey of not just one entrepreneur but to SiteGround’s collective commitment to creating opportunities and breaking boundaries, that we have upheld for over 20 years. The Hall of Fame award is more than recognition; it’s a reminder that success can and should include uplifting others and setting a positive example. As SiteGround continues to grow and contribute to the global tech landscape, we remain committed to our roots and to the values that made this recognition possible. 

We hope that this honor inspires the next generation of innovators to see that greatness can be achieved, nurtured, and shared right here in Bulgaria.