In periods of economic and geopolitical turbulence, few industries remain unaffected. The furniture business, which responds sensitively to consumer sentiment and logistical challenges, is no exception. Today we are speaking with Viktor Sobolevskyi – a figure whose experience and expertise in furniture production and design place him at the forefront of the industry. An entrepreneur and innovator, whose path from construction worker to founder of a successful startup and recognized expert is truly extraordinary. His story is not just a career chronicle, but a testament to how talent and strategic thinking allow one to set standards even in the most difficult conditions.
Mr. Sobolevskyi, your professional path impresses with its diversity: from construction electrician to recognized expert in the furniture field and founder of your own production. What became the catalyst for such a transition, and how did your experience in construction enrich your vision of furniture production?
– My path was indeed not linear. For almost thirteen years, from 2003 to 2016, I dedicated myself to the construction field, advancing from electrician to foreman, working both for companies and independently. This experience laid a fundamental understanding of processes, materials, precision, and, importantly, responsibility for the final result. The transition into the furniture sector in 2016, when I took the position of Head of the Quality Department at Cappuccino Interior and Design Studio, was a conscious step. I saw an opportunity to apply my knowledge of quality and processes in a more refined, aesthetically oriented field. Quality control of production, assembly, and installation of case furniture required the same attention to detail as construction, but added the dimension of design and ergonomics. This synthesis of practical construction experience and focus on furniture production quality became my strength.
In 2020 you launched your own startup, mebelshik.pro, which successfully developed until the end of 2023. What was the philosophy of this project? What unique approaches or technologies did you strive to implement to reach the top of the custom furniture industry?
– The philosophy of mebelshik.pro was based on uncompromising quality and an individual approach. After working as head of furniture production at Vitroom, I was firmly convinced that the market had an unmet demand for truly high-class, thoroughly thought-out furniture. We did not just produce interior items – we created solutions perfectly integrated into the client’s life. Training in Blum technologies back in 2016 gave me a deep understanding of the potential of modern fittings, and we actively used advanced solutions to ensure functionality and durability. I would not call these unique technologies in a global sense, but our drive for perfection in every detail, from design to installation, allowed us to occupy a special position in the market. We focused on those who value true craftsmanship.
The launch of the startup in 2020 coincided with the beginning of the global pandemic, and the following years brought new economic and geopolitical challenges. What strategies allowed your business not only to survive but to successfully develop in a state of permanent crisis until the end of 2023?
– Conditions were indeed difficult from the very beginning. However, crisis is always also a time of opportunity for those ready to adapt. Our strategy rested on several pillars. First and foremost, reputation based on quality. In unstable times, people especially value reliability and durability, so our focus on premium materials and impeccable execution proved itself. In addition, we were flexible in production processes and management, which allowed us to quickly respond to changes in demand and supply problems. An important aspect was also my public activity, particularly my YouTube channel, which created trust and attracted clients who understood the value of our approach. We did not chase mass appeal but built trusting relationships with each customer.
The forced closure of the successfully developing business mebelshik.pro in December 2023 due to the need to leave Ukraine is undoubtedly a difficult trial. As a leader, how did you approach this process? What lessons did you draw from this situation?
– It was an incredibly difficult decision dictated by force majeure circumstances. When external factors threaten not only business but also safety, radical measures must be taken. Closing a thriving enterprise into which so much effort and soul were invested is a huge blow. The main lesson here is understanding that there are things more important than business. As a leader, I had to ensure not only the timely completion of all obligations to clients and the team, as far as possible, but also take responsibility for the future of my family. This taught me even greater adaptability and an understanding that true value lies not only in material assets but also in accumulated experience, knowledge, and reputation, which cannot be taken away.
Your YouTube channel “Life of a Furniture Maker,” created back in 2017, has gathered almost 50,000 subscribers and millions of views. You have become a true guru in your field, a locomotive leading followers into the world of quality furniture. Why is it so important for you to share knowledge and teach others?
– The channel “Life of a Furniture Maker” began as a way to share my experience, observations, and life hacks. Over time, I realized that there is a huge demand for honest, practical information about furniture production, assembly, and installation. Almost 50,000 subscribers and 12 million views, even after some content was removed, confirm this. I believe that raising the overall level of knowledge and skills in the industry benefits everyone – both professionals and end consumers. By conducting online consultations on building efficient furniture production or teaching the intricacies of installation, I strive to contribute to the development of a culture of quality furniture. This is not just training, it is the creation of a community of people passionate about their craft and striving for perfection. Perhaps this is what makes me a kind of opinion leader in this niche at the national level.
Since March 2024 you have been working at the American company Ucon. How are your rich European experience and status as a recognized expert perceived in the new environment? Can we say this is reaching a new level, perhaps worldwide recognition of your competencies?
– Moving and starting work at Ucon as Crew Leader is a new stage, undoubtedly. The American market has its own specifics, but the fundamental principles of quality, process organization, work with materials and tools are universal. My previous experience, including managing my own production and deep knowledge of technologies, is highly valued here. I would not yet call it “worldwide recognition,” but the opportunity to apply my skills and knowledge in one of the world’s leading economies, to contribute to projects here – this is definitely a step forward and proof that professionalism is in demand regardless of geography. It is an opportunity to learn new things and share accumulated experience in an international context.
Looking back at your journey, especially through the lens of overcoming crises, what is the main principle, in your opinion, that defines true leadership and resilience in the furniture industry? What allows not just staying afloat but being at the forefront?
– If I were to name the main principle, it would probably be unwavering commitment to quality in everything – from materials and technologies to communication with clients and team management. Crises come and go, but a reputation built on quality and honesty remains. Leadership is not only the ability to run a business in calm times, but also the ability to make tough decisions, adapt, maintain vision, and inspire the team in uncertain conditions. To be at the forefront, one must constantly learn, not be afraid to experiment, implement best practices, and, importantly, be open to sharing knowledge. The combination of deep expertise, strategic vision, flexibility, and passion for one’s craft – this is what forms a true leader and allows one to break through even the wall of the most difficult circumstances.
