Russian IT Firm Offers Management Role to Seven-Year-Old Coding Prodigy

A seven-year-old coding prodigy has received an invitation from a Russian software company to join its management team, contingent on him reaching the legal age for paid employment. Sergey, a resident of St Petersburg, Russia, has gained recognition by uploading videos demonstrating software development techniques since the age of five. Based on these videos, the information security company Pro32 extended a formal job offer to Sergey for the position of head of corporate training. Russian legislation prohibits Sergey from accepting any paid position until he turns 14. Nevertheless, Igor Mandik, Pro32’s chief executive, informed the BBC World Service that he had discussed interim collaboration methods with Sergey’s parents. Mr. Mandik quoted Sergey’s father, Kirill, stating, “His father, Kirill, was surprised and said that [they were] really happy and looking forward [to when] Sergey would be able to join the company.” In his video content, Sergey is depicted as fresh-faced and smiling with enthusiasm. He navigates coding challenges incrementally, speaking in Russian and occasionally in somewhat imperfect English. His YouTube channel has attracted over 3,500 subscribers, who are keen on studying programming languages such as Python and Unity, or on gaining further insight into neural networks, which form the basis of numerous artificial intelligence applications. Kirill, Sergey’s father, informed the BBC that his son developed an interest in coding after watching his older sister learn programming. Kirill further elaborated, “At first, we studied the material together with the children to explain the basic principles to them. After a month, our help was no longer needed, and after two, Sergey was so carried away that he overtook everyone.” Sergey’s father also mentioned that Sergey enjoys reading the Harry Potter books, playing chess, and playing the piano, with plans to upload videos of his musical performances online as well. Mr. Mandik commented that Sergey has demonstrated not only exceptional developer abilities but also “equally unique” teaching proficiencies. He added, “For me, he is kind of a Mozart.” He continued, “I’m absolutely sure that when he reaches 14, he’ll be a guru of teaching and a guru of developing, and that is why we’re really looking forward to this time.” According to Mr. Mandik, employees at Moscow-based Pro32, including not only coders but also salesmen, accountants, and other staff, could benefit from Sergey’s knowledge. As of now, no commitments regarding compensation have been made, considering that market rates are expected to fluctuate considerably. Mr. Mandik stated, “We have to wait for seven years.” He concluded, “Then we will definitely start a conversation about his salary.”