Let’s get to know another fairowner: Kristi Märtin, our Lawyer. Kristi has a versatile background, combining legal, sales, and business development skills. Kristi joined Fairown to pursue our mission of building a better and greener world. She sees Fairown as a reliable partner for many renowned brands, enabling the circular economy.
In addition to taking care of all legal matters at Fairown, she’s an avid proponent of technology and STEM education and has been popularising kids’ science education in Estonia. That active mindset carries on to Kristi’s personal life - she’s been a professional athlete for 10 years and still finds time to do competitive sports today.
Tell us about your professional background.
I am a mix of a “nightmare” - a lawyer and a salesperson. While studying law at uni, I sold education books door-to-door in the USA during summers to earn money, learn sales skills, and build character. That was the time I discovered that I am drawn to the business world and would not like to work in a law firm. That seemed too specific, dry, and boring to me.
I chose a career of an In-House Legal and Chief of Operations which enabled me to stay close to both legal work and business development. I have also been a B2B Sales Mentor in Superangel VC fund for almost 5 years, helping tech start-ups grow and scale. Quite the same time, I started consulting Fairown.
On top of everything, I am a keen fan of tech and STEM education. I have been able to be part of building up the Rakett69 ecosystem and help to popularise kids’ science education in Estonia.
Why did you choose Fairown, what stood out for you?
I have known Hendrik, CEO and Founder of Fairown, for years. I like Hendrik as a person and a leader - his boldness, positivity, and care for people stood out to me. I like Fairown’s mission of building a better and greener world. I also enjoyed the challenge of working in the fintech sector, which was and still is a new field to me.
What has your journey been like at Fairown? What new skill sets have you had to hone?
Oh, it’s been a ride! I’m learning something new constantly. Working at a start-up teaches you the mentality of “this too shall pass”. What’s relevant today, might not be tomorrow - that requires you to adapt and act fast.
What have been your most interesting projects at Fairown?
The most exciting tasks are all those related to helping the product team, because I can sense the practical use and need of the things I provide.
Building a data protection and privacy framework was intriguing, as I had to start from scratch and educate myself for almost 6 months before I had certified knowledge to start the project.
What drives and inspires you the most in your daily work?
I have realised that I like problem solving. It creates daily challenges and keeps the boredom away. Not to mention the awesome people I work with!
Name some fun facts about yourself that we can’t find on your CV or social profile.
I love to sing, although I’m a terrible singer! Usually, I sing alone in the car in the morning. If I had one wish for a magic goldfish, I would ask for a singing skill.
I am super afraid of snakes. I can literally faint if I see them on the TV screen.
I have misophonia, so please don't eat carrots or apples next to me when I am focused and working. Greetings to my office mate and our CFO Marko, who loves to test my limits. :)
I have been a huge fan of flying and helicopters since I was a kid. By surprise, I ended up marrying a helicopter pilot.
Does your active lifestyle help in your professional life?
My mom told me that I started running (away) when I started walking! I was a professional athlete in track and field for almost 10 years. After my first daughter was born, I started doing endurance and ultrasports. I ran ultramarathons, but due to a knee injury, I switched to mountain biking and road cycling. Today, I am doing sports at a competitive level and you can cheer for me mainly at mountain biking races. Once in a while I like to challenge myself at other sports as well.
Sports are part of my life and lifestyle. It’s in my DNA. There is nothing better than taking your bike and going to the woods to ride trails after a long day at work. It clears your thoughts and gives some good ideas. I also enjoy going to the gym with my husband to lift weights. It makes you feel and look good!
These crazy challenges, training routines, and races help me push my physical and mental boundaries. That makes me mentally stronger in my professional and personal life. Plus, I have more energy to keep going every day.
If someone says they don't have time to do sports, send them to me. I’d be happy to give an inspiring lecture why and how you should choose to move yourself!
Where do you see yourself and Fairown in a couple of years?
Fairown will be a partner for many renowned brands, enabling the circular economy. And I will be helping to make it happen together with the rest of our team.