When Viktor Pavlov moved to Norway in October 2020, the job market wasn’t exactly welcoming. “I had just finished my master’s degree, it was the middle of a global pandemic, and I was new in a country where I didn’t know anyone,” he says. “I kept thinking: Am I doing something wrong?” 

Spoiler: He wasn’t. 

Today, Viktor works as a Payroll Advisor at Azets, handling multinational clients as part of the Nordic Payroll department. It’s a role that suits his international background and outlook—though it’s not where he originally thought he’d end up.  

Born and raised in Bulgaria, Viktor holds a bachelor’s degree from his home country and a Master’s in International Trade and Economic Development from Seoul, South Korea. “My focus was on geopolitics and trade relations. I had planned to work in trade, but graduating during COVID changed everything.”  

“I ended up working in Luxembourg for a year as a corporate tax advisor. It gave me valuable experience with international clients, different tax systems, and working across cultures. It turned out to be great preparation for the world of payroll.” 

He now applies that broad understanding of taxes and international business to payroll. “I wasn’t trained in payroll, but I see my position as being an advisor. If I notice inconsistencies or incorrect setups, I let the clients know. We give them the guidance they need.”  

Payroll might have been a new field, but Viktor credits his team with helping him find his footing. “Everyone is giving 110% all the time, and the team was instrumental in helping me manage my own portfolio. It’s a great environment to grow in.”  

He thrives in the office at Skøyen and prefers it to working from home. “When you’re in the office, it’s easier to concentrate and ask quick questions. The smaller tasks get solved much faster in person.”  

His days involve supporting international clients who employ staff in Norway but are based elsewhere. “Norwegian payroll rules are very specific, and we’re here to help navigate that.”  

The international nature of Viktor’s role is one of the aspects he enjoys most. “It’s really interesting to work with people from so many different backgrounds. The way clients communicate can vary a lot—some are very direct, others more indirect. And the tone can completely change between email and phone.”  

That cultural nuance is something Viktor has been tuned into since his time in South Korea. “South Korea is very underrated. It has a rich culture, amazing cuisine, and a deep sense of history. I studied Korean for a long time, and being able to speak the language made a huge difference. It helped me make real friends, not just acquaintances.”  

He sees many common threads across cultures. “There are definitely communication differences, but we’re more alike than we think. Whether you’re Bulgarian or Norwegian, there’s pride in your culture and a strong connection to family.”  

Now living in Kværnerbyen, Oslo, Viktor says he enjoys the Norwegian lifestyle—long winters and all. “I don’t really mind the darkness. It can feel cozy. Sure, it can be too long, but that’s not always a bad thing.”  

In his free time, Viktor keeps himself active: running, nature walks, and football. He’s a Vålerenga fan and lives close enough to the stadium to catch a match when he can. “I guess my hobbies are fairly normal,” he laughs. “But they help me balance things.”  

As for the future, Viktor is open and optimistic. “There are so many directions you can go in here at Azets. I’d like to continue developing within the international side of the business. Everything is connected, and I want to keep that broader outlook.”  

After a journey marked by resilience and adaptability, Viktor has found a professional home where his global mindset is not just valued—but essential. “At Azets, I feel like my international experience actually adds value. I’ve found a team where I can grow, contribute, and be myself.”