Vlatka Šrajbek’s Experience in the COTRUGLI Executive MBA Program
In a world of constant change and challenges, combining mindfulness and leadership has become an indispensable tool for success. Vlatka Šrajbek, CFO and Board Member at PAN PEK shares how continuous self-improvement and the development of leadership skills bring invaluable benefits—not only professionally but also personally—through her experience at COTRUGLI Business School.
“The Executive MBA program at COTRUGLI Business School was a transformative experience. When I enrolled, I already had over 16 years of experience in various industries, primarily in the service sector—from real estate and facility management to accounting and tax consulting. Working for various local, regional, and global companies from an early age, I gained valuable and diverse experience. I encountered great successes and painful failures, followed by business stabilization after restructuring. My desire for continuous learning and commitment to personal growth led me to COTRUGLI.”
Why COTRUGLI?
“The program caters to the needs of mid- and senior-level management and brings together people from Southeast Europe, creating a unique networking platform. After several years as CFO of a large international service company, this was exactly what I needed. I chose COTRUGLI to expand my perspective and add an extra dimension to my professional profile. At the same time, as I started the program, I took on a new business challenge in a different industry. It was a tough but incredibly valuable move that enabled exponential growth and the application of newly acquired knowledge. The program exceeded all my expectations. I consolidated my existing knowledge, learned many new things, and enhanced various skills.
However, what makes this program particularly appealing is the opportunity to share experiences and learn from colleagues through real-life examples and case studies. The greatest impact of the program was on my leadership skills. Increasing self-awareness and understanding my influence on those around me was a revelation. I received validation of this three years in a row when colleagues and managers recognized me as an ambassador of personal leadership.
I discovered my passion for leadership through people development, which led me to create the Finance Acumen Training for the SEE region. This form of leadership without formal authority is the best example of personal leadership. My passion for teaching was also recognized at Vern University, where I lectured on Business Communication.”
Mindfulness and Leadership
“My passion for continuous development led me through several yoga teacher certification programs, from Zagreb to India, where I spent most of 2023. I also completed Breathwork Coaching training, using ancient yogic techniques and the breath to achieve mindfulness—a state that is invaluable in today’s fast-paced modern life. The benefits of mindfulness are crucial in today’s dynamic environment, where mental health has become a growing challenge. The path to mindfulness lies in our breath.
Finding life’s purpose also gives meaning to leadership. I found my purpose in combining mindfulness and leadership—helping people release accumulated stress and tension through their breath, teaching meditation, breathing techniques, and yoga (which is primarily known in the West through its physical postures).
I am extremely grateful to all my colleagues who selflessly shared their experiences, as well as our professors—especially Prof. Mike George, Prof. Davide Sola, and Prof. Anthony J. Evans. I must also highlight Terence Tse, who explains complex financial concepts in a simple way, and Prof. Nicolas Kfuri, who rounded off this journey with the Advanced Management module.
In conclusion, the Executive MBA program at COTRUGLI Business School has excellently prepared me for all the challenges that lie ahead. I have added the ability to lead global business operations to my experience, developed my unique leadership style, and continued working on my inner strengths. If my story inspires even one person to embark on the path of personal development and enroll in the program, I would be overjoyed knowing I have positively impacted someone’s life—their entire world.”
The COTRUGLI Executive MBA is not just an educational program but a transformative experience that empowers leaders and prepares them for future challenges. Vlatka’s story serves as an inspiration for those seeking to enhance their skills, broaden their horizons, and find a deeper meaning in leadership.
Join the COTRUGLI community and discover how mindfulness and leadership can shape your future. Sign up for an Info Session and take the first step toward transformation. The future awaits—be ready to lead it!
