Vera Khazova, Director of Wrike Cyprus Ltd, sets out the many and varied benefits of being based in Nicosia.
As she told GOLD magazine, Wrike chose Nicosia because, as the capital, it offers everything the growing organisation needs, including strong infrastructure, access to top universities and schools for our employees and their families, and proximity to both government and private-sector partners.
What made you choose Nicosia as your Cyprus location and how has that decision shaped your operations?
We chose Nicosia because, as the capital, it offers everything our growing organisation needs – strong infrastructure, access to top universities and schools for our employees and their families, and proximity to both government and private-sector partners. As we continue relocating team members to Cyprus and hiring internationally, being near the Migration Department and key administrative offices has been a real advantage.
From a practical standpoint, finding high-quality office space in Nicosia is far simpler than in other cities. Our new multi-story office on Kallipoleos Street, near the city centre, provides a modern, collaborative space that supports how we work best - together. The city’s lower rental and living costs also make it easier for employees to settle, build community and maintain a good work-life balance. Over time, more team members have moved to Nicosia from coastal cities like Limassol, Paphos and Larnaca. While the beach has its charm, many now appreciate the capital’s convenience, opportunities and energy – it’s become a thriving hub for innovation and collaboration.
What are the local advantages that have most contributed to your company’s growth in Nicosia?
While Nicosia offers many advantages, Cyprus as a whole has been an exceptional environment for our growth. The island combines a high quality of life – with sunshine, sea and a welcoming culture – with a business-friendly ecosystem that attracts top international talent. Government policies around taxation, innovation and naturalisation have created strong momentum in the local IT and technology community, making it easier for companies like Wrike to recruit and retain skilled professionals. These advantages have been instrumental in helping us expand our team, strengthen collaboration and accelerate innovation from our Nicosia hub.
From which countries have you successfully recruited talent and how do you integrate a multicultural team into Nicosia’s ecosystem?
At Wrike, diversity isn’t just something we value-it’s part of how we innovate. Our Cyprus office is our second-largest R&D hub and our team reflects our global reach, with professionals from Cyprus, Greece, Ukraine, Russia, Brazil, Germany and beyond working side by side. Cyprus’ quality of life, welcoming culture and accessible naturalisation options help new employees settle in quickly. We also foster belonging through initiatives like "Olive Branch", an internal community group that helps teammates connect and thrive. Nearly half of our team are learning Greek and we actively participate in local events to deepen our ties with the community.
Outside the office, what aspects of life in Nicosia make it a compelling city for you and your team?
Nicosia offers a perfect balance between energy and comfort. It has the vibrancy of a true capital city – a growing cultural scene, great restaurants and a cosmopolitan atmosphere that continues to evolve. Team members from larger urban centres appreciate its sense of momentum and opportunity. For those with families, Nicosia's suburbs offer a quieter pace of life, excellent schools and the everyday warmth that Cypriots are known for. It’s safe, welcoming and easy to feel at home – qualities that make it a wonderful place to both live and work.
Finally, if you could fast-track a couple of changes that would make Nicosia more competitive as a business base, what would they be and why?
I’d start with enhancing public transport and creating more green spaces – parks and outdoor areas that give people room to relax and recharge. These improvements would benefit residents and attract more international professionals seeking balance and quality of life. On the business side, streamlining administrative processes, from permits to paperwork, would make it even easier for companies to establish and grow their operations here. Together, these changes would strengthen Nicosia’s appeal as both a business hub and a great place to live.
(Photo by TASPHO)
This interview is part of the “Nicosia Goes Global” cover story in the November issue of GOLD magazine. Click here to view it.
