Julien Biezemans

Tell us a bit about Julien Biezemans?

I started telling computers what to do more than 30 years ago, but my official career as a freelancer started in 2003. I worked on various projects as a consultant, trainer, project manager, engineering manager, etc. I love collaborating on hard problems—I find it very rewarding to solve intricate challenges as a team. I am a strong believer in the exponential power of multiple brains working together towards a common goal.

What made you decide to come and work for Kosli?

The human factor is extremely important to me. I found a very welcoming and collaborative environment here at Kosli. There is a real willingness to build things together in a constructive and respectful culture. I think this is the recipe for delivering great products that can truly help our customers in a sustainable manner.
Kosli is at a growth stage that raises interesting scaling challenges, and I hope I can contribute based on my past experience. This also played a significant role in my decision.

What were you doing before Kosli?

In my 20+ years as a professional “computer guy,” I’ve worked on a wide range of things. I’ve done a lot of software development in various technologies, been a tech leader, product owner, and engineering manager, and delivered many training sessions on agile practices across Europe and the US.
A major milestone in my career was my first open-source contribution when I built Cucumber.js, the JavaScript implementation of the popular natural language specification automation tool. This led me to co-found Cucumber Ltd., where we supported open-source projects and built commercial products and training around Cucumber and Behaviour-Driven Development. Eventually, Cucumber Ltd. was acquired by SmartBear, where I worked as a senior developer for two years before stepping into an engineering management role for another two years.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

I’m endlessly curious about the universe and love learning about it. I care deeply about nature and enjoy hiking with my partner, kids, and our Samoyed puppy. I also run and keep active with workouts that include HIIT, weightlifting, core strengthening, etc.
I’m fascinated by how our minds work, both from a neurological perspective and from an inner, introspective point of view. That’s why I practise regular meditation and mindfulness. There is no self, and free will is an illusion. There, I said it!
Oh, and I also fly (and try not to crash) radio-controlled model aeroplanes at my local aeroclub (I’m also the IT guy there!).