From Architectural Sketches to Business Vision
“For employees in organizations, the investment pays off through career advancement within one to two years. For entrepreneurs, even faster.”
“My name is Mislav Bašić, and I am the owner of the architectural firm 4UHA, which has been successfully operating for 14 years,” begins the architect whose professional journey is measured not only by the number of completed projects but also by his broad perspective on architecture and business.
Over the years, 4UHA has developed a diverse portfolio of projects, from hotels and residential and commercial buildings to complex investments that Mislav oversees from the very beginning. “I am involved in the entire process – from the first sketch and site selection, through conceptual and main designs, cost estimates, and all the way to supervision,” he emphasizes, highlighting the importance of a comprehensive approach to architecture.
However, despite his professional success, a question arose that many entrepreneurs face over time.
When Expertise Is No Longer Enough
“Education prepares us well for our profession, but running a business and managing operations is often something we learn on our own through trial and error,” says Mislav. The growth of his firm was organic, and many decisions were made based on experience. “You try something, some things work, others don’t, and you build from there. Only later do you realize you might have done things completely differently.”
This realization led him to enroll in the EMBA program at COTRUGLI Business School.
EMBA – A Moment of New Horizons
“Enrolling at COTRUGLI Business School opened up completely new horizons for me, especially in the organizational and financial aspects of business,” he recalls. He describes the feeling vividly: “It was like a child walking into a candy factory—you want to implement everything immediately.”
However, after completing the program, a period of reflection followed. “It took some time for the impressions to settle and for me to objectively assess what was most valuable for implementation.”
Today, he emphasizes the importance of continuity. “It’s crucial to stay in touch with the School even after graduation. Some modules are worth revisiting because now I approach them with more maturity and a much clearer focus.”
Value Gained and Applied Since the First Module
In one word, Mislav sees the greatest strength of COTRUGLI Business School in its people. “For me, the greatest strength of COTRUGLI is networking,” he says without hesitation.
From the very first module, Sales & Marketing Management, theory turned into practice. “I spoke with the professor, developed an idea, and immediately implemented a bonus system that we still use today,” he explains. He considers this just one of the many tangible business benefits he gained through his education.
An Investment That Pays Off Many Times Over
When asked about the return on investment, Mislav is very clear. “I never viewed the cost of education as an expense,” he emphasizes. “For employees in organizations, the investment pays off through career advancement within one to two years. For entrepreneurs, even faster.”
He estimates his personal ROI at an impressive 50 times the investment. “But even if it had been just 2x, it would have been worth it,” he adds.
The biggest investment during the program, he says, is not money but time. However, that time brings additional value: “Through the program, you don’t just build business contacts; you form lifelong friendships.”
Who Should Enroll in the EMBA Program?
Mislav recommends the EMBA program to those who are, as he puts it, “ambitious, open-minded, and open-hearted,” but also ready to invest in personal and professional development.
He advises students to make the most of everything available to them. “Networking, every module, and at least three key lessons from each lecture, those that stay with you forever.”
An Open Door for Future Students
Finally, Mislav shares a personal message: “Future and current students are welcome to reach out to me if they need help, guidance, or mentoring. I’m happy to share the knowledge and experiences I’ve gained.”
Mislav Bašić’s story confirms that behind every successful architectural project lies not only great design but also a clear business vision and a commitment to lifelong learning.