After graduating with a degree in psychology from the University of Zagreb in 1998, I started the management trainee program in the biggest Croatian bank, which is a member of the Unicredito Group.

During that period, I actively participated in the twinning project with the Irish A&B bank, focusing on the transformation of the HR department, process design, and the development of new HR capabilities. I was responsible for recruitment & selection processes and participated in the design of the career development framework.

In 1999 I joined Agrokor Group – the leading FMCG producer in Croatia, accepting the position of Talent Management Leader for the Group.

While in charge of the Group’s 15 companies with almost 15.000 employees, I successfully launched and implemented the talent management program called FuturA, which attracted and retained 5 generations of management trainees, thus contributing to the development of a multitude of talented leaders who have played pivotal roles within the Group. I was involved in key acquisitions throughout the Adriatic Region, with direct accountability for the integration of HR processes.

In 2004 I moved into a business partner role in British American Tobacco, as a logical next step in the expansion of my knowledge and capabilities in multinational organizations.

During the 3 years spent at BAT, I thrived and developed into a strong HR leader. One of my more challenging assignments included the participation in BAT’s Global HR Transformation project as change leader for Europe, sharing cross-cultural experiences and getting stronger insight into our global team’s efficiency and synergy.

Joining Schering Plough in 2007 initiated my second stage in a career characterized by Mergers and Acquisitions.

Only 3 months after I joined the team, the acquisition of Organon Biosciences was announced. After extensive integration efforts and 18 months of hard work, a new announcement yet confirmed that the entire business had been sold to Merck. Both acquisitions strongly influenced the broadening and further expansion of my know-how and expertise. It is these experiences that distinguish you as a leader and shape you as a person forever.

In 2014 TE Connectivity and the role of HR Vice President for Broadband Network Solutions opened the Global door wide for me.

I stepped into the fast moving and demanding - but most of all exciting - world called Internet of Things, which exposed me to new cultures, lands and leadership challenges in all their diversity. Integration activities, leadership changes, performance improvement projects and another HR transformation were just a few of the many tasks undertaken as part of my onboarding. An HR leadership position to support a business divestiture followed. It was the greatest learning opportunity, as well as the best business school I could enroll myself in.

Launch of GRIT International, embracing new challenges.

I made the decision to start a business focused on strong performance that results from a clear business strategy, aligned culture and engaged talent. Having many years of experience and eager to step forward once again, I decided to step out of my comfort zone, to unlearn some of my earlier competencies and to start painting on a blank canvas in a metaphorical sense. I am passionate about innovation and finding new solutions for old issues. I am determined to focus on few of the core challenges organizations are facing today with the intention of making a positive impact and leaving a mark which will be visible for generations to come.