Turning Knowledge into Action
“One weekend you’re learning, and by Monday, you’re already using that knowledge in your business.”
Hrvoje Ivić is the General Manager of FINSPOT, a leading financial services company in Croatia. His professional journey began in various financial institutions, where he gained experience in managing teams and business processes. Over time, the challenges grew more complex: the market evolved rapidly, projects required the integration of finance, operations, and people management, and the responsibility for business decisions became increasingly significant.
Stepping Out of Autopilot
“I could have continued on autopilot, functioning for years without personal growth or added value. That’s why I decided to enroll in the Executive MBA program at COTRUGLI Business School,” Hrvoje recalls. During the two-year program, he successfully balanced professional responsibilities with intensive learning, which allowed him to apply his knowledge in practice immediately. “One weekend you’re learning, and by Monday, you’re already using that knowledge in your business. That’s what makes the COTRUGLI Executive MBA unique.”
After completing the program, Hrvoje took on a role where he was responsible for helping foreign companies enter the Croatian market. His responsibilities included setting up operations from scratch—recruiting and leading teams, organizing offices, creating budgets, and assessing profitability. “When entering a new market, you need to understand local regulations, adapt your strategy, and simultaneously manage people, costs, and risks. The MBA gave me the knowledge and tools to structure these processes and make timely decisions,” Hrvoje explains.
Leadership Rooted in People and Learning
The key lessons Hrvoje took from the program revolved around people management, delegation, and decision-making. “Without the right people, you can’t achieve anything. The MBA taught me how to build effective teams, delegate responsibilities, and make decisions that are strategically important for the company. Additionally, the Pareto principle, the 80-20 rule, taught me to focus on activities that bring the most value and eliminate unnecessary stress.”
Hrvoje places particular value on teamwork and networking. “Every module at COTRUGLI involves multidisciplinary teams made up of finance professionals, HR experts, engineers, and more, which allows you to view business from different perspectives. Teamwork and interaction with colleagues from around the world provide invaluable insights into both global and local business challenges. It’s not just networking; it’s a lasting professional support network that extends throughout your career.”
Hrvoje emphasizes that the MBA is not a ready-made formula for solving problems but a framework for continuous professional development. “The program teaches you how to make informed decisions, manage people and processes, and grow as a leader. The MBA provides the tools, but the real results come from your engagement and practical application of the knowledge.”
For candidates considering enrolling in an EMBA program, Hrvoje has a clear message: “Don’t enroll just to get a diploma or a list of contacts. Be ready to work, learn, and invest in yourself. The MBA program offers a global perspective and knowledge, but your initiative and application are what determine success.”
Through his career and experience, Hrvoje Ivić demonstrates how a combination of knowledge, leadership, and a lasting professional network can transform a professional life. His story is an inspiration to anyone looking to take responsibility, grow, and face challenges, with the COTRUGLI Executive MBA program providing the platform for such development.