Renald's interview
February 2022
How long have you been working at PI Services?
I joined PI Services in April 2020, just after the first lockdown began!
Given the unusual circumstances, I started the role remotely, but that didn’t stop me from integrating well with the teams—thanks in large part to collaborative tools like Teams, which are widely used at PI Services.
I was also lucky enough to attend a company dinner shortly before the health restrictions were put in place. That gave me the chance to meet my future colleagues in a relaxed and friendly setting over a fondue and raclette evening—pretty great as an ice-breaker!
How did you join the company?
Through word of mouth! I was talking to a colleague about wanting to move my career forward, and he mentioned PI Services because he knew one of their top consultants.
I sent in a speculative application, and a week later, I had an interview with the Head of Managed Services and the Operations Director. I landed the job shortly after!
What is your role, and what does it involve?
I’m a Systems and Network Engineer. I work on projects involving the deployment and upgrading of IT infrastructures (installing or upgrading Microsoft systems), as well as classic on-site administration (in régie).
I deal with identity-related architectures such as AD, ADFS, and AD Connect, and with infrastructures like Microsoft RDS (Remote Desktop Services). Depending on the client’s needs, I also work with other Microsoft services such as Exchange, Skype, or Teams, and I’m constantly training to expand my skillset across as many technologies as possible. For example, I’m currently deepening my knowledge of Sophos.
Can you tell us more about yourself and your background?
My background is a bit unconventional. Although I’ve always had a passion for IT and taught myself a lot, I actually started my professional life in the construction and catering sectors. Alongside that, I nurtured my interest in coding by helping friends or taking on small infrastructure maintenance projects in my free time.
I set myself up as a freelancer, and through motivation and word of mouth, I started getting assignments from small businesses—mostly web development, infrastructure installation, and maintenance (mainly AD environments).
To sum it up: I spent a year doing Level 1 support (user support and issue resolution), but I wanted to grow and gain new skills. Naturally, I moved into Level 2 (root-cause incident handling) in several small companies for another year. Eventually, I landed a Level 2/3 role at a large public institution (CAF), where I worked and progressed for four years.
And the rest? You know it—I landed an exciting job with my current company, where I’m looking forward to continuing to grow!
After almost two years at PI Services, how has your experience been?
Very positive! I feel really good at the company, especially thanks to the warm welcome, trust, and autonomy I was given right from the start.
When I arrived, everything I needed to work efficiently—especially remotely—was immediately made available to me: the right equipment, a structured onboarding, strong team cohesion through Teams meetings and regular training sessions.
I’m proud to be part of this adventure because the technical level at PI Services is top-notch! The foundation is solid, the colleagues are incredibly skilled and always happy to share their knowledge. There’s no shortage of opportunities to learn and grow. Together, we work on diverse and rewarding projects.
Add to that the friendly, supportive atmosphere and great management—it’s a winning combination!
And looking ahead, what are your ambitions for the future?
I’m continuing to train and upskill on the various systems and technologies we work with.
My goal in the near future is to take on more consulting assignments, particularly focused on architecture.
Anything you’d like to add?
All the conditions are in place to make the work environment both enjoyable and motivating!
Special mention to the many team-building moments and social events organised by our Managing Director—great opportunities to get together and relax over a good meal!