Leadership Means Building a Team That Can Lead Without You
A true leader builds trust, creates culture, and leaves a legacy. Results matter, but the people behind them matter more.”
Toni Jurčić: Leadership Means Building a Team That Can Lead Without You
Toni Jurčić, CEO of Raiffeisen Leasing, has been part of the Raiffeisen Group for over twenty years. He began his professional journey in a partner bank and, as he says, climbed “every step – from the bottom to the top.” Consistency, responsibility, and a willingness to take initiative have defined his professional growth.
“I never aimed to be better than others, only better than myself,” Toni emphasizes. “In business, it’s crucial not to overpromise but to remain consistent and honest with your team and with clients.”
A Change That Shifts Perspectives – COTRUGLI Executive MBA
After more than two decades in the banking sector, Toni felt the need for personal and intellectual growth.
“I enrolled in the COTRUGLI Executive MBA because I wanted to step out of the routine of daily business life. At first, it was challenging, but very quickly, I realized the program opened up new horizons for me,” he recalls.
Although he comes from the financial sector, the program offered him much more than technical knowledge. “The greatest value of COTRUGLI for me was the diversity of people I met. Through interactions with younger generations and professionals from various industries, I realized how important it is to understand different perspectives, values, and ways of thinking.”
He was particularly impressed by lecturers like Terence Tse and Anthony J. Evans: “Inspirational, dynamic, and full of energy. Every topic gained a new dimension with them.”
Growth Through Stepping Out of the Comfort Zone
During the Executive MBA program at COTRUGLI Business School, Toni made one of the most pivotal decisions of his career – to leave a secure, high-ranking position at the bank.
“I realized I was stagnating. When you feel like you know everything and everything runs on autopilot, both you and your team stop growing. That’s the moment when you need a change.”
Shortly after, he took on the role of CEO at Raiffeisen Leasing.
“It’s a completely new professional environment. Suddenly, you’re the one making decisions, bearing responsibility, and representing the organization. At the same time, it’s the greatest professional challenge, teaching you what true leadership means.”
Leadership as Trust and Legacy
When asked what it means to be a successful leader, Toni answers simply: “A successful leader isn’t someone who always has to be first, but someone who builds a team capable of leading without them. A true leader builds trust, creates culture, and leaves a legacy. Results matter, but the people behind them matter more.”
He believes in a team-oriented approach, open dialogue, and collaborative decision-making.
“The best decisions come from brainstorming and exchanging ideas. I always listen to my team, because even when the final decision is mine, the process where everyone participates is important to me.”
Lessons That Stay With You
Throughout his career, Toni has learned to trust himself, remain consistent, and be patient.
“Don’t make decisions impulsively; sleep on them. And never stop working on yourself. The only person you can truly change is yourself.”
Over the years, he’s also learned the importance of recognizing and praising the people around him.
“Sometimes I was too self-critical and set standards that were too high. Learning to acknowledge and praise others’ efforts is part of every leader’s growth.”
A Message to Future Leaders
“If you’re considering an Executive MBA program, it’s important to choose the right moment, when you already have some professional experience. COTRUGLI isn’t just a school; it’s a transformative experience. It broadens your understanding of strategy, leadership, and business dynamics. And most importantly, it provides a network of people who inspire and push you forward.”