Article

Leading at Smartsheet: Through the lens of curiosity

by Kalin Kanev

May 28, 2025

Kalin Kanve

 

I joined Smartsheet for two main reasons. First, I’m genuinely inspired by the company’s vision and the impact it’s making in the world of collaborative work.  Second, the culture felt dynamic, people-focused, and full of purpose, something that resonates deeply with me. After establishing VMware Cloud on AWS in Bulgaria, I was excited for the opportunity to build something great again,and I’ve found it here. This desire to build, to take something from the ground up and see it flourish, is a thread that runs strongly through my career.

When I reflect on my career, I’m most proud of my journey at VMware. Launching a new operation from the ground up was complex and intense, and it pushed me to grow as a leader and collaborator. However, this was also a most rewarding journey. I learned how to navigate ambiguity, lead through change, and build strong, resilient teams. Most importantly, I saw how great things can happen when people work together with a shared purpose and the impact that comes from it. These lessons continue to shape how I lead today.

I’m a big believer in staying curious and having a sense of adventure—both in work and life. Whether it’s solving a tough problem or chasing the perfect wildlife photo on a hike, I’m always looking to learn something new and to push myself just a bit further than the day before.

If you think about it, engineering and wildlife photography have something in common. Both require patience, precision, and a willingness to embrace uncertainty. Whether you’re developing and launching a platform or waiting for just the right moment to capture a photo, the preparation is meticulous and the outcome isn’t guaranteed. What matters most isn’t just the end result, it’s the process, the mindset, and the ability to stay focused and ready when the moment finally arrives.

Outside of work, my happy place is hiking with my family, running to clear my head, or honing my photography skills. There’s something about nature, movement, and a bit of challenge that helps me recharge.

Joining Smartsheet felt like the natural next step for me. It’s a place where I can bring together my passion for people, progress, and push myself just one step further to drive meaningful change.

If you’re someone who’s ready to go one step further, explore our open roles