From Engineer to Entrepreneur
"I used to perceive competition differently, but now I see it as a stimulus and a partner in growth."
Darko Tušek, owner of Inukom d.o.o. and a COTRUGLI Executive MBA alumnus, began his career as the first employee of a small IT company. During a time when Croatia was experiencing hyperinflation, he contributed to the development of new telecommunications technologies while completing his studies in electrical engineering.
“That job was incredibly motivating because I could apply what I was learning at university directly to practice,” Darko recalls. However, due to the economic circumstances and high cost of living at the time, he decided to seek new opportunities and challenges.
After a brief period working in education as a teacher of technical subjects, he continued his career at the Ministry of Defense of the Republic of Croatia, where he was involved in developing IT infrastructure and digitizing business processes.
“It was a very dynamic period, full of growth and responsibility. I had the opportunity to work across the entire country,” he emphasizes.
The Path to Entrepreneurship
Over time, Darko realized he was drawn to a more dynamic environment and the creation of new value. In 2007, he founded his own company, Inukom d.o.o., specializing in telecommunications.
“I started as a technical expert, but very quickly, I had to become a manager, entrepreneur, and project leader. Every previous experience helped me build my own business philosophy,” he explains.
At that point, the Executive MBA program became a significant turning point in his professional development.
“I didn’t join to start learning from scratch but to systematize my knowledge and gain additional confidence in business decisions. The COTRUGLI EMBA helped me structure my experience and connect technical expertise with managerial tools,” he says.
The Power of Applying Knowledge in Practice
Through the EMBA program, Darko learned to view the market differently.
“I particularly remember the simulations and case studies in the program. I realized that being first in the market isn’t the most important thing – it’s about building a healthy, growing market. I used to perceive competition differently, but now I see it as a stimulus and a partner in growth.”
In addition to developing business competencies, the EMBA program had a profound impact on his personal growth.
“The personal development module with Mike George was a turning point. I learned that every problem can be solved if you change your way of thinking. There’s no need to blame others or circumstances; progress begins with changing your own perspective.”
Horizontal Learning and Collaboration
Darko highlights the importance of mutual learning and collaboration among participants.
“During the EMBA, I learned how valuable it is to share experiences. Horizontal learning, through interaction and teamwork, is just as important as the lectures themselves. We all came with different experiences, and that diversity enriched us.”
Today, with over two decades of professional experience, Darko says the EMBA has given him a lasting advantage – a clearer view of business, a better understanding of people, and a broader perspective on the business world.
“COTRUGLI taught me that business success isn’t just the result of knowledge but also of thoughtful reflection, collaboration, and continuous personal development.”