A biologist at Gobik
What is a biologist doing working at Gobik? It is the question that many would surely ask upon learning that Julián Ferrero, who is part of the Product Development department, actually studied Biology in Alicante. Well, Julián himself gives us the answer: "Let’s see, it’s a long story because I’m a biologist. I studied biology in Alicante and when I finished my degree I started working at a textile institute in Alcoy. I spent a couple of years and a half in a department focused on garment and fabric analysis, on their thermal insulation and breathability. At the same time, I was already competing in mountain bike, in cycling in general, and I became part of the Gobik Factory Team, which is the company’s factory team. From there I got to know José, Alberto and the rest of my teammates. They knew that I worked at a textile institute and that was when they proposed that I work here."
Julián’s passion for cycling
As the saying goes, "you always go back to what you love," and even though Julián studied Biology, his passion for cycling was the link that connected him with Gobik. A passion that he still pursues today, although not as much as he would like: "my hobby today is cycling, both mountain bike and road. However, I’m a bit, not away from it, but taking it a little easier because of a knee injury. This has forced me to stop, but even so it is still my main hobby." After he told us that he likes both mountain bike and road, we had to ask him the key question: which of the two do you like more? "It’s true that mountain bike pulls me a little more and that’s where I focus my efforts."
Julián’s skin bears the Gobik brand
Coming back to Gobik, while still keeping cycling in focus, you may be curious to know which jersey Julián identifies with most. We had to ask him, of course, and his answer was quite emphatic: "It would be an Infinity, with an ultra-fit, super-racing cut." In the end, working within the Product Development department means that he knows the brand’s different collections perfectly. Now then, what exactly is Julián responsible for? He tells us himself: "I am responsible for developing and refining the wide catalog of accessories that Gobik offers, such as gloves, socks, and a long list besides. It is deeply satisfying to see how they fill the roads and even some of the main World Tour stages."
Julián has now been with the company for 3 years, and clearly remembers how it has changed over time and, obviously, in line with the growth Gobik has achieved. "When I joined, I remember there were around 130 employees; right now we’re almost 200, if I’m not mistaken, and honestly, with the new renovations and the departmental redistribution and everything, it feels like a completely new company".
Q&A
What music is always on your Spotify? Indie in general, Viva Suecia.
Series or films? Series.
Wine or beer? I’m not a fan of either, but I’d say white wine.
Tour, Giro or Vuelta? I’d rule out the Giro, but in the end, the Vuelta lets you, as Spaniards, experience it more closely… without having to travel an outrageous distance; it allows you to enjoy professional cycling firsthand more easily.
