Senior Java Backend Developer & Software Architect
Creating robust, scalable software solutions that drive business success
Get in TouchWith over 25 years of experience in software development, I'm dedicated to crafting software that is extensible, maintainable, and efficient. My passion lies in solving complex technical challenges and delivering solutions that not only meet today's requirements but evolve gracefully with tomorrow's needs.
My approach is rooted in understanding: I start by thoroughly comprehending both the business requirements and the domain before examining existing code or designing solutions. This foundation enables me to create architectures that align with real-world needs. When appropriate, I leverage rapid prototyping to validate concepts early and gather feedback quickly, ensuring we're building the right solution from the start.
Based in Vienna, I bring 25 years of Java backend development experience with a pragmatic, results-oriented mindset. I'm also an active contributor to the Hiconic open source platform, a sophisticated framework that evolved from the enterprise product Tribefire.
With 25 years of hands-on experience in software development, I help teams design robust, scalable architectures that stand the test of time. My approach combines deep technical expertise in Java backend systems with practical insights gained from working on diverse projects and products. Whether you're starting a new initiative or need guidance on evolving your existing architecture, I provide actionable recommendations that balance sound technical decisions with business realities.
When projects go off track, experience matters. I specialize in diagnosing troubled projects, identifying root causes, and implementing concrete steps to get them back on solid ground. Drawing on decades of real-world project work, I can quickly assess what's going wrong (whether it's architectural issues, technical debt, or process problems) and work with your team to stabilize the situation and establish a path forward.
I enjoy diving deep into existing codebases to uncover hidden issues and improvement opportunities. My reviews go beyond surface-level checks: I identify security vulnerabilities, architectural weaknesses, and performance bottlenecks that impact stability and maintainability. Whether you need to modernize legacy Java systems or refactor existing code to meet new requirements, I focus on understanding the real issues first, then applying the right solutions to minimize risk and maximize value.
Slow systems cost money and frustrate users. I analyze Java backend applications to pinpoint performance issues and identify optimization opportunities, from database queries and algorithm improvements to memory management and concurrency patterns. My focus is on delivering measurable performance gains through careful profiling, targeted optimization, and pragmatic solutions that your team can maintain long-term.
2022–Present
Created and maintained the backend for a comprehensive application for daily work assignment of drivers in a logistics environment. The platform integrates with multiple external systems including SAP Ariba, fleet management tools, and mapping services to streamline operations and improve efficiency.
2020–Present
Developed a comprehensive self-service platform enabling claimants to submit and manage their claims independently. The solution integrates advanced identity verification (WebID KYC), secure document processing with antivirus scanning, cloud storage, and automated document generation. The platform streamlines the claims process while maintaining high security standards and providing real-time updates to users.
2013–2015
Developed and maintained a mission-critical platform for receiving, storing, translating, and emitting ISO 20022 (Swift) payment and statement files. The system handled 15 million payment transactions per day during banking hours, supporting multiple national and bank-specific variants (PAIN, PACS, CAMT, MT940).
2019–2023
Built a sophisticated claims management solution deployed across multiple cloud providers (AWS, Azure). The system features advanced compliance screening, document processing, and real-time updates via Server-Sent Events, providing a modern, efficient workflow for claims processing.
I've successfully delivered solutions for a diverse range of clients across Austria, Switzerland, Germany, and internationally, including:
Document.one (cloud-integrated DMS), AMS Arbeitsmarktservice, ÖAMTC, Uniqa (Austria and CEE countries), Helvetia Deutschland, HDI Österreich, National Suisse, Credit Suisse (ELDO), Sport2000, GE Jenbacher, CLAL, Ströer
Software AG (WebMethods integration), Johnson & Johnson (multi-DMS workflow platform)
BB1/Energie Burgenland (renewable energy platform)
Basler Versicherung, Bawag, Bene, Börse Wien, Brutkasten, CSC, H&S Heilig und Schubert, Jöbstl, Kapsch, Konica Minolta, Kostwein, Mediaprint, Moser Holding (Tiroler Tageszeitung), ÖBB, Pöttinger, Österreichische Post, PVA, Reed Messen, Riiil, Sozialbau, Stiwa, VAM - Bilfinger, Werbeplanung, Wien IT, Zeppelin, Adidas, Börse Stuttgart, E-Spirit, HVB Leasing Deutschland, Icon, IDS-Scheer (Aris), R+V Versicherung Deutschland, Investec, OCL (Lancashire County Council)
I adapt my methodology to each project's needs, but I strongly favor rapid, iterative development that enables early customer feedback and continuous improvement. This approach reduces risk and ensures alignment with business goals throughout the development lifecycle.
Vienna University of Technology
My career combines deep academic foundations with extensive practical experience across research, teaching, development leadership, and hands-on implementation in large-scale enterprise projects.
I maintain my technical edge through continuous learning: regularly reading technical articles, participating in professional email groups, and experimenting with state-of-the-art Java features and emerging technologies. Currently, I'm exploring Spring AI, building custom MCP (Model Context Protocol) servers, and working with RAG (Retrieval-Augmented Generation) using vector databases. I actively explore and integrate AI-assisted development tools into my workflow, combining the efficiency of modern AI with the critical judgment that comes from 25 years of experience to ensure code quality, security, and maintainability.
When I'm not architecting software solutions, I enjoy reading, watching films, spending quality time with my family, and exploring my passion for cooking. I also maintain my own home Linux server running web, mail, DHCP, and DNS services, and experiment with Home Assistant for home automation—hobbies that keep my system administration and IoT skills sharp while satisfying my curiosity for how technology can solve everyday problems.
I'm currently available for freelance projects and consulting engagements. Whether you need help rescuing a troubled project, designing a new architecture, or optimizing existing systems, I'd be happy to discuss how I can help.
For larger projects or specialized requirements, I collaborate with a trusted network of experienced freelancers across various disciplines. This allows me to assemble the right team for your specific needs while maintaining the quality and responsiveness you expect from working with an independent consultant.