Future of Leadership and Lifelong Learning
“The combination of the group's energy, open discussions, and the friendships that were formed - that's what makes the MBA special.”
For Tatjana Skoko, a career has never been just a series of professional positions but a continuous journey of learning and personal growth. It is this curiosity and desire to understand systems, people, and processes that have shaped her professional identity.
Reflecting on her career journey, Tatjana emphasizes that it all began with curiosity – a desire to understand how people, processes, and resources can be optimally organized to achieve shared goals. Even as a student at the Faculty of Economics, specializing in Organization and Management, she knew this was the field where she wanted to grow.
“Before enrolling in the COTRUGLI MBA program, my professional goals were focused on developing my career in sales and management,” Tatjana recalls. “I worked as a Key Account Manager at Hrvatski Telekom, where I gained valuable experience in building relationships with key clients and defining sales strategies. However, I felt the need for further development, particularly in leadership and strategic management.”
This desire for a broader perspective on business was what led her to COTRUGLI, which she describes as a turning point in her professional life. “The program opened up a completely new perspective for me. Through its interactive approach, exchange of experiences, and real-world business cases, I learned to think strategically and see the bigger picture of business operations.”
After completing her MBA, Tatjana continued to grow within business sales and management, first as a manager and later as the Director of Sales for Key Business Clients at Hrvatski Telekom. This was followed by a new chapter – joining Microsoft Croatia and advancing to the position of Country Manager, where she led the company through a period of intense transformation.
“Microsoft was an incredible experience for me,” Tatjana shares. “I led the organization during a time when the company was undergoing a profound global shift in its way of working and culture. It taught me resilience, how to lead through change, and strategic thinking.”
Today, as the General Manager of SAP for the Adriatic region, Tatjana leads operations in a dynamic environment, bringing together everything she has learned – knowledge, experience, and a human-centered approach. “I believe that the success of an organization and the development of its people are inseparably linked. A leader’s role is not just to deliver results but to inspire people to grow, believe in themselves, and realize their potential.”
COTRUGLI MBA: A Transformational Experience
Tatjana highlights that the MBA at COTRUGLI was much more than an academic program for her. “For me, it was a transformational experience—a space where you learn about yourself, build confidence, and create a network of professional contacts.”
Her initial goals – gaining comprehensive business knowledge, strengthening leadership competencies, and expanding her strategic perspective were fully realized. “I gained knowledge in finance, marketing, and strategy, but more than that, I learned how to make decisions in complex situations and how to lead teams through change.”
The most challenging module for her was finance. “Finance was an area where I had less experience, but that’s precisely why it was the most valuable. I learned to understand financial indicators and make data-driven decisions, which is something I use every day in my leadership role.”
Beyond the knowledge, what stands out most for her are the people. “The combination of the group’s energy, open discussions, and the friendships that were formed – that’s what makes the MBA special.Networking was one of the most valuable dimensions of the experience because working together builds trust, which often evolves into long-term friendships and collaborations.”
Leadership and Mentorship: Giving and Learning Simultaneously
Over the years, Tatjana has developed a leadership style rooted in authenticity, empathy, and continuous learning. “A leader isn’t born; they are constantly built and developed,” she says. “I’m a strong advocate of lifelong learning and continuously invest in my personal and professional growth.”
Today, she actively participates in the COTRUGLI Mentorship Program. “I see mentorship as an opportunity to pass on what I’ve received – support, advice, and encouragement for growth. With every new generation of mentees, I learn something new as well. It’s a two-way process that enriches both sides.”
The Future of Leadership
Speaking about the future of leadership, Tatjana emphasizes the importance of understanding artificial intelligence and its role in the business world. “AI is already changing the way we make decisions and develop strategies. Future leaders need to understand how the collaboration between humans and technology can unlock new opportunities for innovation, efficiency, and sustainable growth.”
When asked what being a successful leader means to her, she answers without hesitation: “Being a successful leader means inspiring people to grow, creating a culture of trust and collaboration, and building success through others. I don’t measure success solely by results but by the impact I leave on my team, organization, and community.”
To her younger self, she would say: “Believe in yourself, be brave, and never stop learning. It’s through challenges that we grow the most.”
In five or ten years, she sees herself continuing in leadership and digital transformation, with an even greater focus on social impact and developing the next generation of leaders.
A Message to Future MBA Participants
“Enrolling in the MBA was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made,” Tatjana concludes. “I learned a lot about business, but even more about myself – about how I make decisions, collaborate, and solve challenges. To anyone considering an MBA, I say: don’t wait for the perfect moment. Take that step and allow yourself to grow.”