Interview

Hello, Vlado! Welcome to our project team. We are thrilled to have you join us for this interview for our publication titled "Run and Smile."

While we have known each other for years through our shared passion for running in Železná studnička, we are excited to delve into various aspects of your life and experiences, starting with your professional journey.

1. Where do you work, and what are your professional challenges?

I am working as a Financial Manager for Mondelez, covering the European region with headquarters in Zurich, focused mainly on the financial planning activities. The multicultural environment and the opportunity to collaborate with smart and talented individuals is incredibly enriching.

The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on work dynamics has been significant, and it has influenced the workplace dynamics also within our company. The breaking down of barriers between various levels of seniority was a notable shift, allowing for more collaboration and interaction across different organizational levels. This change fostered a more inclusive and collaborative work culture.

While the pandemic disrupted many in-person activities, including sports and networking events, it is impressive to see how online opportunities within the company have replaced some of these activities. The ability to adapt to change, both in my professional role and personal activities, demonstrates resilience and flexibility. Online platforms have become essential for maintaining connections and facilitating work interactions during these challenging times.

I started my career within a company dealing with broadcasting services, satellite pay TV, and digital infrastructure within the Slovak Republic. It was a monopoly company, which often operate in tightly regulated environments, requiring a deep understanding of compliance and industry standards. The cross-functional collaboration broadened my understanding of how various departments and sectors contribute to the overall success of the company.

Participating in the expansion of Pay TV services to different markets was an opportunity to improve the project management across borders that involves navigating diverse regulatory landscapes, cultural considerations, and market dynamics. Regularly joining Board meetings and bankers was a testament to my strategic involvement and the recognition of expertise, which gave a strong background for further carrier opportunities in Transportation and Logics company when I spent couple of years again in business and finance environment, which means strategic financial planning and business valuation.

2. Could you also elaborate on your educational background, please?

I graduated at the University of Economics in Bratislava, achieved master’s degree in Finance, Banking, and Investments. The diploma thesis “The financial aspects of nuclear energy in Slovakia within the European Union” helped me to explore the intersection of finance and nuclear energy and to understand a complex and crucial aspect of national and global concerns.

The fact that I spent considerable time with Jozef Zlatňanský, a distinguished gentleman and professional working at the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in Vienna, was remarkable. The IAEA, being an organization under the United Nations, plays a critical role in promoting the peaceful use of nuclear energy while ensuring safety and security. Being able to see and interact with professionals and experts from various countries within a global organization like the IAEA, was a powerful and enriching experience with unique cultural and professional exposure.

It is not a surprise, that my interest in nuclear energy, focused on National Safety and Security, with a sustainable aspects, directed me to get to know the basics of research and development to know more about WANO, IEA or State Atomic Energy Corporation Rosatom (ROSATOM), so my next steps headed to Eastern countries, where I spent several months in Russia attending language schools in Saint Petersburg and Moscow, which was an incredible and enriching experience.

I had an opportunity to enjoy Russian culture first-hand that goes beyond language learning and interact with people from various parts of the world, representing different cultures such as Japan, Korea, Saudi Arabia, Europe or USA. The memories and insights gained during this period contribute to a broader worldview and will stay with me throughout my life.

3. Vlado and sports – how would you characterize yourself from this perspective?

My sport journey started from sprinting as a child to later joining a baseball club. Baseball is indeed a dynamic and strategic sport that requires a combination of skills, including sprinting, batting, and precise ball throwing. Maybe, it seems boring to some viewers but the need for accuracy, quick reaction time, and continuous engagement without much downtime makes it a challenging and exciting collective sport that I really loved mainly the strategic element of baseball, with athletes communicating through secret signals.

Being a part of the Slovak National baseball team gave me an opportunity to participate in various competitions. I will remember forever the one in the Netherland where I achieved the best statistical rating among the 300 competing players from Europe. Sport is a substantial part of my life, particularly baseball, has been a significant and rewarding part of my life, contributing not only to my physical fitness but also to the development of teamwork, strategic thinking, and quick decision-making.

During my studies at the University, I spent couple of years playing indoor football with friends also from different countries, like Algeria or Tunis.

My active participation and success in company games and challenges, especially in winning the step challenges with over 5000 participants from different countries, showcase not only my personal commitment to a healthy lifestyle but also my ability to motivate and lead a team towards achieving goals as I was nominated as a captain of team who won the competition. I influenced my team members to improve their sport capability and inspired them to join the swimming lessons with professional coach. 

4. Have you participated in, or are you planning to participate in any sports competitions? Do you have any specific sports challenges?

In recent years, I participated in triathlon competitions, including completing the demanding “Oravaman”- the Half Ironman with a significant 3000m elevation in the mountains of Slovakia. I completed the Half Ironman in Budapest and in Prague. Obviously, there were a lot more sport competitions, which prepared me for the more recognized ones.

As a preparation for the race, I committed to improve my swimming skills by training with one of the best coaches in our country, whose students have reached World Championships and the Olympic Games. Training alongside swimmers who served as inspiration for eight years underscores the long-term dedication and discipline required in competitive swimming.

What is beautiful and inspiring is that you can go to the race all by yourself and you will always meet new people and it is not a coincidence, that many times these people will become friends for life.

What I would like to emphasize, that people who are involved in sports are mostly very friendly and warm. It does not matter what country a person comes from, it does not matter what their native language or religion is, you understand each other with a smile on your face.

I have one very nice example, during the Ironman competition in Budapest, where I met a group of women sitting at breakfast, speaking in English, already dressed for the race, so we started talking to know more each other. To be honest, the lady was not the lightest athlete and I wondered if she was really going to compete, but I put my prejudices aside and we got to know each other.

After a while we were enjoying our breakfast with a smile. The lady came from California to see her parents, she flew half of the World, just for this competition, to hug her mom from Slovakia and prove to herself that the impossible just doesnot exist.

This woman completed the Half Ironman, albeit as the last one, but with the biggest applause with a champagne and congratulations from the entire Ironman organizational team, as well as from the race organizer himself. When I think back about it, it was the perfect example, how we can break social barriers through sport. It is exactly about that moment, about sports diplomacy, about overcoming barriers and making the world and people happier and healthier.

5. We have selected you for our publication as the face of the BUSINESS area. How do you perceive the connection between these two worlds?

Acknowledging that both sports and business come with their share of ups and downs underscores the importance of resilience. From my perspective the importance of perseverance and determination are required to achieve goals. Whether in sports or business, staying committed to the journey and pushing through obstacles is essential. Each day is an opportunity to move closer to goals and consistent, small steps can lead to significant progress over time. It is important to stay committed to aspirations and the long-term vision and the dedication needed to reach desired outcomes. Consistent effort and dedication are key elements in both sports and business endeavours.

Triathlon is such a demanding and rewarding sport, and it is amazing how the lessons learned from pushing my limits in triathlon can extend to all aspects of life. The mindset of not giving up and believing that anything is possible help me overcome obstacles, achieve my goals, and continuously strive for improvement in all areas of my life.

The perseverance and determination required to complete a triathlon, especially when faced with physical and mental challenges along the way, are invaluable qualities that greatly benefit me in my personal and professional life.

Triathlon teaches you to embrace discomfort, adapt to adversity, and keep moving forward, which are all essential skills for success in any endeavor.

While advertising and brand promotion are important for visibility and attracting customers, they are only part of the equation. Just like giving a product a new look or upgrading equipment in sports, sometimes what is truly needed is a substantive improvement in the product itself or dedicated effort and practice to enhance performance.

In product development, it is crucial to not only focus on marketing but also on continuously refining the product to meet the evolving needs and desires of users. Similarly, in sports, while having top-notch gear is nice, it is ultimately the dedication to training and improvement that leads to real progress in performance.

This mindset shift, from simply dressing up products or relying on external factors in sports, to actively improving their core aspects, is what can truly drive long-term success and satisfaction for users and athletes alike.

Another aspect that sport has for a person is to be fit, healthy in a good condition. Little is said about it, but there is a higher risk of cardiovascular mortality than cancer mortality. Junk food, sweetened drinks, Snacks blinking on us on every corner, full of sugar and carbohydrates, is literally killing people.

We see a high impact of overweight people and obesity on cardiovascular health, as well as its effects on social interactions and self-esteem, especially among young people. Overweight and obesity pose significant health risks, including cardiovascular problems, and may also lead to feelings of isolation, low self-confidence, and social stigma.

Engaging in sports and physical activity play a crucial role in addressing these challenges. Sport not only promotes physical fitness and helps manage weight but also fosters social connections, teamwork, and a sense of belonging. Participating in sports can provide opportunities for individuals of all shapes and sizes to come together, build relationships, and support one another in achieving common goals.

Moreover, sports have the power to break down barriers and challenge societal norms and stereotypes. By promoting inclusivity, acceptance, and diversity, sports can create a supportive environment where individuals feel empowered to pursue their passions and overcome obstacles, including those related to weight or body image.

6. In your opinion, where does inclusion through sports lie?

Inclusion through sports is a platform where people of all abilities, backgrounds, and identities can come together to engage in physical activity regardless of any barriers or limitations they may face. Everyone, regardless of age, gender, race, ability, or socioeconomic status, has the opportunity to participate and enjoy the benefits of being active.

Sport boosts self-confidence improves physical health and mental well-being. Sport creates also opportunities for a social interaction, collaboration, and teamwork, helping to bridge divides and promote inclusion.

If we limit sport to simple jogging or running, there is nothing better, than if you have a chance to have a conversation during the sport activity, to know each other better, it is a perfect moment to share thoughts and ideas, to learn and grow, which in the end will conclude with the social and emotional rewards. It is also about the creation of a welcoming and inclusive environment where people of all backgrounds and abilities can come together and enjoy sport with the Smile.

7. Which sports values are close to you? How has sports influenced you the most?

Fair competition is the number one. It is essential not just in sports like triathlon but also in various aspects of life, including business and finance. In sports, rules and regulations are in place to ensure that competition is fair and that all athletes have an equal opportunity to succeed based on their own abilities and efforts.

In triathlon, drafting behind another cyclist to gain an unfair advantage is against the rules and can result in penalties. This rule helps maintain fairness and integrity in the competition by ensuring that each athlete is responsible for their own performance and is not unduly benefiting from the efforts of others.

Similarly, in the realm of finance and investment, adhering to standards like the Global Investment Performance Standards (GIPS) helps ensure fair and transparent reporting of investment performance. By following these standards, investment firms provide accurate and consistent information to investors, promoting trust and confidence in the market.

The other important value is Respect for oneself, teammates, opponents, coaches, officials, and the rules of the game. It promotes fair play and positive relationships both on and off the field. The Respect is closely linked to ethical conduct in business. Treating others with respect involves acting with honesty, integrity, and fairness in all business dealings.