Nozir Tukhtamurodov was born in Samarkand. He advanced from intern to Python Tech Lead, earned a PhD degree, and today contributes to a European fintech project. In an interview with IT Park Uzbekistan and The Tech, he explains why he chose to pursue an international career, what challenges hinder the growth of local teams, and what young developers need in order not only to write code but also to create products.
Nozir Tukhtamurodov, Samarkand — Python Tech Lead at Pointspay, LinkedIn
I studied at Samarkand State University: first earning a bachelor’s degree in Applied Mathematics and Informatics, where I learned the basics of programming, and later a master’s degree in Information and Multimedia Technologies. At the university, the focus was primarily on theoretical knowledge, whereas I sought more practical experience. For this reason, I independently studied Python development through YouTube and programming literature. I became interested in programming during my studies, began taking internships, and by the second year of my master’s program had already secured my first paid position as a Junior Software Engineer.
My first steps were at a research institute — almost unpaid. Later, I joined UPAYNET, and subsequently the state Fiscal Institute as a system administrator. However, the excessive bureaucracy, lack of transparency, and prevalence of “tanish-bilish” (connections-based favoritism) prompted me to leave quickly.
The next stage was at the GameDev company Vronica, where I became engaged in EdTech. I later joined MarsIT — and it was there, together with the team, that we created what I consider one of the country’s most effective gamified EdTech platforms for teaching IT to children. The platform continues to operate today, with approximately 3,000 active students and more than 10,000 graduates.
I continued my academic journey at the Research Institute of Digital Technologies and Artificial Intelligence in Tashkent, where I received a PhD for my dissertation on “Algorithms of intelligent data analysis under singularity conditions”.
I briefly joined the MigorskiyAI startup.
I am currently employed as a Python Tech Lead at Pointspay, a Swiss fintech product that enables clients to make online purchases using loyalty points from various programs. While formally employed through EPAM, my entire professional focus is on Pointspay product.
The platform allows users to pay with accumulated loyalty points across thousands of international online retailers, while enabling companies to expand their customer base by integrating with these programs. Pointspay is part of Loyalty Prime AG, a global leader in loyalty management.
We are building a scalable loyalty system: architecture, backend, integrations, and Python-based microservices. At times, I also work with Data Engineering and DevOps, depending on the task.
A significant advantage is the presence of a seasoned CTO, with experience at Meta, who has a genuine understanding of developers. The work process is clearly organized: when you succeed, it is recognized; when you struggle, there is no pressure — instead, colleagues step in with support: “Let us do this together”. The environment is humane. The team and culture are centered on results, not on control.
The difference between foreign and local work cultures is striking. At Pointspay, results are valued more than hours spent in front of a screen. In Uzbekistan, many companies still operate on a six-day workweek, whereas in Europe there are active discussions about transitioning to a four-day model. A five-day workweek is already the norm rather than a privilege.
In Uzbekistan, employers often focus on hours spent rather than results achieved. In Europe, the opposite holds true: if you complete a task in three hours, that is welcomed; the rest of your time is your own. The priority is task completion. It is a culture where trust prevails over control.
What matters are not only skills, but also the ability to communicate them.
I chose to join an international company because it offered:
I am convinced that much in life is guided by the will of the Almighty. If something is truly destined for you, the path will always be found. At the same time, practical factors also played a decisive role: strong hard skills, fluency in English, and a readiness for continuous learning.
It is not sufficient to merely write code — one must understand the product, articulate one’s perspective, and propose viable solutions. A developer must think broadly, in the manner of a product owner, not just as an engineer: to question why this code is being written, what problem it solves, and how the user will perceive it.
Equally important is not being afraid to speak up, to share ideas, even if they appear incomplete. Many remain silent out of fear of seeming foolish, yet a single timely suggestion can transform an entire project. In international teams, value is placed on those who think not only as engineers but as product creators.
I began studying English in Samarkand at the FastFluency language school, now known as Millennium. Initially, I was a student, and later — already during my bachelor’s studies — I taught IELTS and grammar there. Teaching helped me immensely: when you teach others, you gain a deeper mastery of the language yourself. It was difficult at first, but over time I achieved fluency, and English became a tool rather than an obstacle.
Remote work gives what is often lacking in local companies — a healthy work-life balance. There is no time wasted commuting, no traffic jams, and no early morning exhaustion. Most importantly, it provides flexibility in unforeseen situations.
Sometimes urgent family matters arise, for instance, when a child falls ill. In our context, this almost always requires “taking leave” or dealing with formalities. Here, I simply message my manager: “I cannot be available at the moment, I will make up the hours later” — and that is enough. There is no pressure, only trust. They respect the fact that you have a family and a life beyond work.
Of course, there are those who exploit such freedom — but such cases end quickly. In these teams, discipline is built not on control but on mutual respect, and if you let the team down, you are simply let go. It is straightforward and fair.
The only drawback is the lack of in-person interaction. Occasional meetings are important. That is why I enjoy gathering with friends for hiking — combining social interaction with time in nature.
I do not see major obstacles in competing with foreign developers. The essential factor is language and communication. Technically, our specialists are strong, but often struggle to communicate their ideas clearly. Once this skill is developed, everything becomes possible.
Western employers treat IT professionals very normally. They are not concerned with your origin, religion, or appearance. What matters is reliability, the ability to work in a team, and delivering results.
Salaries among specialists vary widely. Some earn $500, while others recieve over $7,000. Everything depends on one’s level, experience, position, and the company itself. The most important factor is to know your value and understand where you stand within that range.
We live in a time when building a strong career does not require moving abroad. Today, it is entirely feasible to work for international companies while remaining in Uzbekistan. I am doing so myself. The key is to build a professional profile, continuously develop, and know how to find opportunities.
At present, I work with international companies and find it fulfilling. However, in the future, I hope to launch something of my own here in Uzbekistan. It may be a FinTech solution or a product for developers.
Remote work is a reality. The main thing is not to give up.
Advice for young developers aspiring to work with international companies:
1. Learn languages — English above all.
2. Gain experience in the local market.
3. Do not hesitate to work in freelance or outsourcing — it is a stepping stone.
4. Take part in projects and build a portfolio.
5. And above all — do not give up. The world is vast, and there is a place in it for you.
