As the Lead UX Engineer at BeSmartee, Mark Martinez is responsible for developing an intentional and strategic user experience for lenders and borrowers throughout the mortgage origination process. Mark’s vision for BeSmartee’s user experience consists of three main principles: ensuring that the BeSmartee mortgage platforms are accessible, collaborative and friendly.
Let’s dive in to learn more about Mark’s role at BeSmartee as well as his interests outside of work.
Q: Can you describe your role, day-to-day responsibilities, and one of your favorite projects at BeSmartee?
A: I am a Lead UX Engineer. I lead a team, help improve the user experience of our products, and contribute to our codebase—among other things. One of my favorite projects has been the public website redesign. I was able to establish a revamped branding/visual direction for the company.
Q: How has BeSmartee helped you in your career development and what are three career lessons you’ve learned thus far?
A: This is my first full-time job out of college, so the company has helped my career immensely by investing in my diverse skill set, which is how I ended up in my hybrid role.
I’ve learned to be passionate. I perform exponentially better when I am passionate about what I’m doing, so I always make an effort to get hyped.
I’ve also learned to adopt a growth mindset. Our CEO, Tim Nguyen, often says his iconic phrase, “If you’re not growing, you’re dying.” I take this to heart and make an effort to improve myself each day with reading and passion projects.
Finally, I’ve learned to challenge the status quo. Working at a startup brings out the daring and brave parts of you. The goal of a startup is to disrupt and innovate, after all. Establishments and traditions are meant to be understood, respected, and challenged. I enjoy difficult situations where I have to challenge a well-established entity or process.
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Q: What do you like to do on your days off?
A: I spend my mornings exercising, reading, and working on my personal projects. I unwind in the afternoons and spend my evenings with good friends.
Q: What’s on your bucket list?
A: Skydive, own a house/condo, own a supercar (Porsche 911 GT RS, Lamborghini Aventador, Audi R8, or equivalent), and travel to every continent.
Q: You’re happiest when?
A: When I see beauty in the world. Beauty comes in many forms, tangible and intangible, so it’s pretty easy for me to be happy if I look for it.
END OF INTERVIEW
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