Q: Rain, congratulations again. Starting on a more personal note, how would you describe your work inspiration?
A: Thank you. My flagship in work is inspired by the work of Claude Elwood Shannon, the father of Information Theory. It’s not just about being a "genius inventor." For me, true joy is embedded in the everyday joy of tinkering—finding elegance and fun in building stable, foundational things through engineering.
Q: Your hobbies are quite diverse - reading 36 books a year and recently picking up badminton. How does this connect to your growth mindset in engineering?
A: Reading is essential for expanding my knowledge base and harmonizing conflicting views. Badminton, surprisingly, serves a similar purpose: it forces me to be a "rookie" again, accepting discomfort in a new circle. This constant search for new challenges, whether intellectual or physical, is crucial for fostering a growth mindset.
Q: Winning the MVP is a significant achievement. How did you feel when your name was announced?
A: I was deeply honored, but honestly, what I felt most was humbled. I recognize that this achievement wasn't a solo effort. It was made possible by the sheer help and patience I received from countless colleagues.
Q: When you look back at the past 8 months, what were the top three abstract challenges, the non-technical ones, you had to overcome as a Lead?
A: I would define them as #Alignment, #Communication, and #Culture. The most pressing challenge was achieving true #Alignment across vertical and horizontal stakeholders, especially during complex, multi-team initiatives like API Forward. Clear #Communication was the biggest obstacle to this. However, MFV's supportive #Culture served as the key enabler, providing the necessary nurturing environment to help navigate and resolve these "invisible" conflicts.
Q: Many people see an Engineering Lead as primarily a technical decision-maker. How has MFV's Product Culture changed your view of the Lead role?
A: That traditional view is incomplete. MFV is fundamentally a product company, and our culture is designed to be highly nurturing and empowering. My role is no longer just about writing or reviewing code; it’s about clarifying business needs, questioning the 'why' behind implementation, and proactively suggesting better alternatives. A Lead here is a technical co-pilot for the Product, driving value, not just speed.
Q: As an Engineering Lead, what do you anticipate will be challenging and how will you prepare?
A: The uncertainty level will increase in the way that my work will be shifted left, more in clarifying draft PRDs to be developed, and cross-integration works with teams other than within Payrolls. I’m preparing by actively strengthening human connection, by hanging out more with Product teams, having drinks, and breaking bread together. I believe these moments of shared humanity will build the trust needed to navigate and resolve technical conflicts efficiently in the future.
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Q: What is the most valuable lesson MFV has taught you for over 8 months since being on board?
The standard of support I have received from my direct manager, Lee is invaluable. He always has my back to guide me through challenges, clarifying the unknowns, and sometimes through some tough conversations and situations.
From MFV, the culture thing is, indeed, very uncommon. I feel lightened by the fun and joy of being in the office, and off the office with circles of activities, from engineering discussions to badminton. I think it is very important because we spend a big chunk of our lives with colleagues and the company as professionals.
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MFV has some comments from Rain’s stakeholders. Let’s immerse in their comment to see how dedicated he is.
Thank you, Rain Tran, for being an exceptional player in the previous half. We look forward to seeing more of your growth in the future. Thank you for being a part of Money Forward Vietnam.
