Employee Spotlight: Farjana Tharin

In this ongoing blog series, we speak with WP Engine employees around the globe to learn more about their roles, what they love about the cities they live in, and what they like most about working at WP Engine. 

In this interview, we speak with Farjana Tharin, a Senior Sales Account Executive based in London, who’s been with WP Engine since 2019.

Going back to the start, how did you discover WP Engine?

I came across WP Engine through a LinkedIn post from a former colleague who had won Manager of the Year. It was great to see her successful and part of a growing company, so I decided to do my own research and got a referral.

Tell us more about your current role at WP Engine

I am part of the Acquisition Sales team in the London office. My role is to understand a client’s business and website goals to help them decide whether WP Engine is the right fit. From there, I work with an engineer to craft a bespoke solution that will ensure their website is contributing positively to their business goals. Partnership is important to me and I love welcoming clients to the WP Engine family.

What is your favorite thing about working at WP Engine?  

My favorite thing would be that I am surrounded by intelligent and ambitious individuals who are also very supportive.  I have learned a lot, ranging from sales methodology to growing my brand and career. I also love our core values of “Do the Right Thing” and “Customer Inspired,” which ensure that every decision we make is honest and humble—they’re values that resonate with me personally too. 

Can you describe the culture of the  London office/team?

Supportive, collaborative, and friendly! Working from home came with its own challenges but WP Engine maintained its close-knit culture and the wellness of its employees. My favorite is the wellness allowance we get every month, I spend mine on massages!  

How do you contribute to the success of WP Engine?

I help grow the business by bringing onboard new customers and ensuring they get off to a great start. The initial stage involves understanding their industry, their business goals, and what is important to them. My aim is to become a trusted advisor by delivering a strong digital platform to help them reach their business objectives.

What is the most challenging part of your job?

The most challenging part of the job would probably be that it is always changing and evolving so there is a lot to learn and keep up with.  For example, this year we have evolved our product stack to expand into different markets and industries.

However, I also see this as a positive because it keeps me on my toes and helps me grow.

What is a good lesson you’ve learned in your career?

Change is inevitable, especially in a fast-moving environment like WP Engine. I have learned to embrace change and look at the positives! 

What’s the favorite part of your workday?

My favorite part of the workday would be celebrating team and individual wins! Even though sales can be competitive, we have a very collaborative and supportive nature, so it’s great to have a team that I can learn with and who supports my growth. 

What is one of the coolest projects you’ve worked on while at WP Engine?

I worked with a leading media group in 2020, which was looking to re-platform with the aim of increasing website traffic and revenue. It was a competitive and complex deal and involved the efforts of various cross-functional teams. We worked with the client closely to demonstrate the value our partnership could have, both short and long-term. Since moving to our platform, the client has had had their best year to date. This project was a great opportunity to learn from senior members and elevate my brand.

Which one of WP Engine’s values speaks to you the most?

It’s hard to pick one as they all come hand in hand. But if I had to pick, it would be “Do the Right Thing” as it ensures that the decisions we make as a business and individuals are sincere. 

What are some of your favorite things about working and living in London?

I love the diversity and that there is always something to do! It’s so easy to get around London, there is always a new fitness class that I can try with ClassPass which is of course balanced out with the range of cuisines and restaurants London has to offer. If you are looking for a good lunch spot in London, I’d highly recommend the Spitalfields Market! 

What are some hobbies you enjoy outside of work?

Traveling, eating out and cooking, F45, and keeping my step count high! The London office is doing the Race Santa challenge with Barnardo’s so it’s great having a team that gives back whilst also motivating me to stay active, especially during the winter.

Favorite TV show of all time?

Friends! I love that it is universal and I have lost count of the amount of times I’ve rewatched the entire series. 

Current addiction?

Selling Sunset which is my current guilty pleasure. It is a Netflix show based on selling real estate in LA. I love watching how extravagant the houses are. 

What would you recommend others do if they’re interested in exploring careers at WP Engine?

I would recommend doing some research on WP Engine, its values, and culture to help you decide whether it resonates with you. Also, reach out to the team on LinkedIn, we are a growing business with a number of different vacancies so we would love to have a chat!

Thank you, Farjana!

Want to find out more about what it’s like to work at WP Engine? Visit our careers site to see the roles we currently have open and check out our blog for more information about all the great people who work here!