Behind the scenes series – Lilit Khachikyan
Hi Lilit! Can you share your journey with Civitta?
What drew you to this role and how has it evolved since you joined?
I joined EV Consulting right when it was transitioning into Civitta, so I had the amazing opportunity to dive straight into the merger process from the very start. To top it off, I returned from maternity leave just in time, making it a transformative moment both personally and professionally.
By the time the merger was complete, I felt so fully integrated that it was as if I had always been part of Civitta! I joined as an Administrative Assistant, but my role soon shifted to Office Manager. Now, I’m the person everyone turns to for help.
In a large organization like Civitta, aligning each office to international standards is challenging.
How is this managed in the Armenian office while ensuring smooth operations?
Achieving alignment is all about strong communication and collaboration! Open, consistent communication is the key, especially with the exciting diversity across our offices. As we centralize key processes and align with Civitta’s global standards, we’re also passionate about adapting them locally.
It’s an exciting challenge! Our work extends beyond the Armenian office – we’re also supporting operations in Georgia. While managing logistics across locations can be tricky, it always comes back to strong, clear communication with all teams involved.
That’s incredible!
Could you also share some of the unique traditions or practices in Civitta’s Armenian office with us?
In our Armenian office, we never let a birthday go unnoticed! Even if it falls on a weekend, we make sure to celebrate it afterwards with a cake, treats, and lots of birthday wishes. Our annual Secret Santa adds extra excitement and warmth to the holiday season! These celebrations aren’t just fun — they bring our team closer together.
Looking back, I can’t help but smile at a nostalgic tradition from the early days of Civitta. Before streams and centralized processes, we had twice-weekly gatherings that everyone looked forward to. On Mondays, we’d meet as a team to catch up on projects and plan the week. Thursdays were for casual coffee breaks, filled with jokes, chats, and lighthearted conversation.
What motivates you on a daily basis?
Do you have specific strategies or habits that help you stay organized and focused?
My biggest motivation is the team. Knowing my colleagues rely on me and appreciate my support drives me to give my best every day. Seeing the impact of my efforts fuels my commitment. I often joke that when I’m away and the team starts to panic, it reminds me how vital my role is — and that just motivates me more!
When it comes to staying organized and focused, I don’t follow a specific ritual, but I stay focused when I have a full plate of tasks. The busier I am, the fewer distractions I have, and the momentum keeps me going. I often juggle multiple urgent tasks rather than tackling one at a time!
How has being a member of the National Union of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts in Armenia shaped your approach to office management and teamwork in a diverse environment?
Being a member of the National Union of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts in Armenia was a transformative experience for me, starting when I was just 13 years old. It was a period of my life where I learned the importance of organization, teamwork, and leadership. I credit this organization for shaping many of the skills that I rely on today in my professional life.
The Girl Guides provided a structured environment that emphasized responsibility and adaptability, which are core to my approach as an office manager. What also stands out from my time in the Girl Guides is the exposure to diversity. This global perspective has been invaluable in my current role, helping me navigate the cultural nuances Civitta has.
What’s something about you that your colleagues might not know?
One thing most of my colleagues, both in Armenia and across Civitta may not know is the thing with the Girl Guide and Girls Scout. It’s not something I often talk about. The lessons I’ve learned as a Girl Guide, such as teamwork, organization, and leadership, continue to shape who I am today. Another lesser-known fact about me is my passion for DIY projects.
I love crafting, whether it’s making cards, decorations, or other handmade items. For me, it’s not just a hobby but a way to express creativity and find calm in challenging situations. People often comment on how patient I am when immersed in these projects, and I believe this patience is partly genetic, inherited from my mother. That kind of escape allows me to recharge and stay motivated.
If someone were considering joining Civitta, what would you tell them?
What mindset or qualities do you think are important for someone joining the team?
“It is not just about what you bring, it is also about how Civitta helps you evolve. The opportunities here push you to grow in ways you may not have thought possible.”
Civitta is an amazing place to grow, both personally and professionally. It’s fast-moving, with people constantly bringing fresh perspectives and leaving with invaluable experiences. If you’re open-minded, eager to learn, and thrive in a dynamic environment, this is the perfect place to challenge yourself and succeed!
At Civitta, it’s all about dedication and drive — you have to be ready to keep up with the fast-paced environment! Teamwork is everything here; we succeed by supporting and learning from each other. And honestly, a great sense of humor is a secret ingredient — it keeps the energy high and makes every challenge more enjoyable!