Hi there! What is your name, and where do you live?
Hi! Victor Langenskiöld, I live in Lauttasaari, Helsinki.
Tell us a little bit about yourself and your background.
When I was younger I was absolutely clueless about what I wanted to do when I grew up (and still partly am, haha). Eventually, I found my passion within hospitality and worked for years within tourism, hotels and restaurants. Due to Covid, I had to reconsider my career options and by the luck of the draw I heard about Yeply from one of my friends. At the time, it was a totally absurd idea to apply as a bike mechanic with almost no previous experience. However, I wanted to explore new possibilities and not limit myself, so I went for it and couldn’t be happier! During my free time, I enjoy being outdoors fishing, hiking and skiing. I’m also a fitness/endurance sports enthusiast, always looking for new ways to push my limits.
When did you join Yeply, and what do you do?
I joined Yeply in February 2021 as a bike mechanic and currently I run our Finnish operations.
What is your earliest memory of a bike?
Practicing to ride my bike without training wheels in our driveway.
Did you always like cycling, or was it more of an acquired taste?
I’ve always enjoyed cycling but only more recently picked it up as a hobby/lifestyle.
What made you want to become a Yepler?
Having experienced how inconvenient it can be to maintain your bike in a shop, I instantly knew Yeply was onto something big. Furthermore, during my first interview, Tommi the co-founder had me sold on the ambitious goal of Yeply taking over the world, which I wanted to be a part of (haha..)
What is your favourite part of the job?
Seeing others succeed and taking pride in what they do.
And the most challenging?
Managing a resource and skill demanding business with varying seasons and demand.
What do you like the most about cycling / bikes?
All aspects of cycling can be as simple or complex as you want it to be. I.e It is for anyone and everyone 🙂
What advice or insights would you give to others looking to become bike mechanics or wanting to join Yeply?
Go for it! It’s more than “repairing bikes”. You learn a skill that is in very(!) high demand within the industry. Once you learn the mechanical aspect, you could progress and do almost anything within the industry. You will have a thorough understanding of bikes, components and how everything relates.
Favourite bike-themed saying/film/song?
Ride it like you stole it.
