The hoodies behind Zerocopter

auriane vez

Welcome back to one of our favourite blog series, where a different member of the team is introduced on the second Monday of each month. In these posts, you can find out more about the hoodies behind Zerocopter!

This month, we would like to introduce you to our brilliant Delivery Specialist, Auriane Vez! She seamlessly supports clients, bridges communication between them and hackers, delves into data analysis, and handles various delivery-related tasks.

Please tell us a bit about yourself, who is Auriane Vez?

As I mentioned during my interview when applying for the job at Zerocopter, I’m a bit of an in-between/weird person (like everyone likes to think of themselves ?). I find myself drawn to different things, like studying environmental humanities, gender studies, and counseling, but I also enjoy diving into coding through courses like CS50. What ties all these interests together is the need to see the bigger picture while also making connections and noticing the little details. My motivation comes from wanting to make a positive impact on society, and I’m really passionate about interpersonal connections. 

Can you please describe your job title in a couple of words?

After almost a year in this position, I would describe my job as being a small Swiss pocket knife. I have done a lot of different things, from supporting clients and facilitating communication between them and hackers, to also conducting some data analysis and other delivery-related tasks. I have had the chance and opportunity to collaborate with other departments as well, so the analogy seems like a good description (as I am Swiss ?).

What do you like about working as a Delivery Specialist?

I really enjoy how diverse my work is. It requires me to understand both the client’s and hacker’s sides, almost like a dance where I navigate between different perspectives and tasks. One of the best parts about my position is the freedom to choose, in part, the projects I want to work on. If I see a process that could be improved or data that needs analysis, my team trusts me to take the lead. This level of freedom and support enables me to bring my ideas to the forefront and contribute meaningfully to the projects I undertake.

How did you end up at Zerocopter?

It seems like fate had a hand in it. Initially, I applied for the position, but in the meantime ended up accepting another job offer. However, that job wasn’t the right fit for me, and just as I was questioning my life decision, Mark from the HR department reached out to me again. I had a fantastic chat with Chantal and Lennaert, and at that moment, I knew that this was exactly where I was meant to be!

If you could trade positions with anyone in Zerocopter for a day, what would it be and why?

I would say Mark. He is the Head of Human Resources. As I pursue my studies in counseling, I’ve developed a keen interest in understanding the responsibilities inherent in his role. It strikes me as an intriguing position that involves facilitating effective communication and maintaining a healthy balance within the company. The interplay of these responsibilities is something that really interests me.

What have you learned from working at Zerocopter?

On a technical level, I have had the chance to have some training in triage, so I have a tiny-tiny bit of knowledge about different vulnerabilities. We are also receiving awesome “Non-boring Technical” training from Laura, which is adding a tool to my Swiss pocket knife. 

On a human/professional level, I have learned that it’s possible to find a company that cares about you and is human-centered with awesome colleagues and supervisors. 

And that in the end, it all comes down to communication ?.

What resources would you recommend to someone (new) in this industry/job function?

I think a tool that has been really useful for me in my function is the Nonviolent Communication book by Marshall Rosenberg. As my job is to communicate with hackers and clients who sometimes have different objectives, it is really useful to mediate everyone’s needs.

‍‍When was the first time that you heard about the term “Bug Bounty” or “Coordinated Vulnerability Disclosure”?

As I was getting ready for my interview and during the actual interview. I’ll admit that certain aspects felt a bit unclear at first. I nodded along, pretending to understand, but soon enough, everything clicked into place. Now, I even have my own opinions on the matter, and my inner socialist believes that a valuable report in CVD should always be rewarded as a token of appreciation!

What is your favourite stereotype about the hacking industry and why?

I would say that my favorite stereotype about the industry is that hackers are dorks. The hacker network has a remarkable culture of openness and a strong motivation to share their passions, which creates a welcoming atmosphere. It’s a space where you can feel at ease (especially if you are dorky as well ;).

We hope you enjoyed the blog and got to know Auriane more. Stay tuned for the upcoming blogs in the future, and find out more about the hoodies behind Zerocopter!