Czech Leaders 04/2015

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Czech & Slovak Leaders I/2016

PŘEDSTAVTE SI, ŽE BY VŠE BYLO TAK JEDNODUCHÉ, JAKO ZACHRÁNIT ŽIVOT DÍTĚTE.

CZECH & SLOVAK

NOVEMBER – JANUARY / 2016

available worldwide online

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Július Kriváň, Commercial Director, Železiarne Podbrezová

When

Traditional

Industry

Paves Way to Modern Times

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www.czechleaders.com incl. electronic version Praha I Bratislava I Brno I Ostrava I Plzeň I Liberec I Olomouc I Hradec Králové I České Budějovice I Pardubice I Zlín I Jihlava I Karlovy Vary I Mladá Boleslav

P ublisher ’ s

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DEAR READERS, Dear Readers, Brr, brr, it is rather cold out there as I’m writing these words; however, it’s not so surprising as we are at the end of January and spring seems to be so far away. Next week February will arrive, the Aquarius month – my favourite month due to the fact that I was born the 14th, St. Valentine’s Day – many years ago. In Sweden we say Alla Hjärtans Dag, which means All Hearts’ Day in English.

Dear Readers, I hope you have noticed your magazine now has a new title: Czech&Slovak Leaders.

After a short readers’ survey where everybody was 100 % positive about the change, we decided to make it.

We think it is important to connect these 2 countries much more than in the past. Just remember it was only 23 years ago when the 2 countries were one.

events 8 State Visit President of the Czech Republic, Mr. Miloš Zeman received Mrs. Park Geun-Hye, President of the Korean Republic 9 State Visit President of the Czech Republic, Mr. Miloš Zeman received Mr. Reuven Rivlin, President of the State of Israel 9 National Day of the Czech Republic 10 New Year´s Meeting of Senators and Journalists 12 Czech 100 Best Key Factors of Success 20th International Conference 14 Czech 100 Best Gala Evening Czech 100 Best 20 Round Table of Comenius Discussion Dinner with Mr. Dan Ťok, Minister of Transport 22 Round Table of Comenius Discussion Dinner with Mr. Marian Jurečka, Minister of Agriculture Gala Evening – Representative Ball of Central Bohemian Region

The front page shows Mr. Július Kriváň, a remarkable and successful Slovak businessman, whose interview is also included in the publication.

We are grateful to be able to bring you an interview with H.E. Livia Klausová, Czech Ambassador in Slovakia and former First Lady of the Czech Republic. In another interview we feature, Andrej Hryc, a wellknown personality and actor, talks about a very important project he wants to launch.

The Czech side is represented by Mrs. Alena Vitásková, Head of ERU, Mr. Pavel Krtek, Chairman of the Board of the Czech Railways, Mr. Tomáš Prouza, State Secretary of European Affairs and Mr. Josef Švenda, CEO of Oracle. From Austria we’ll hear from Mr. Rupert Simoner, CEO Vienna House (formerly Vienna International), and Hynek Kmoníček, Advisor to the President, will share a very personal interview written by his wife, to mention but a few.

Our prominent photo coverages show photos of Presidential visits, Senate activities, Comenius Czech 100 Best gala event, Round the Table by Comenius with Minister of Transport Mr. Dan Ťok and Minister of Agriculture Mr. Marian Jurečka, Austrian National Day, Canada New Year’s Party, Hilton’s traditional Christmas Concert, 11th Prague Security Conference, Miro Gallery exhibitions, CSUZ Event, EU Matters, Fryday’s Diplomatic Forum debates with the Ambassadors of Spain, Turkey and Mexico, as well as others.

In addition, we have many contributors sharing their interesting topics and visions, all of them worth reading.

Dear Readers, another year is ahead of us – let’s make the best of it.

I wish you all a wonderful time and that you let energy and hopes of this year inspire you to help and care for others. And most importantly, save energy to save this planet. Small efforts can make wonders.

Benke Aikell benke.aikell@czechleaders.com www.czechleaders.com

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The evening was hosted by a famous actress Yvetta Blanarovičová and accompanied with Václav Hybš´s Orchestra.

 page 78 30 Networking/Charity Lions Club Prague 34 Gala Evening Degustando – Italian dinner at Le Palais Art Hotel Prague 36 Autumn Gas Conference 2015 2nd annual panel discussion Autumn Gas Conference 2015 38 Canada New Year´s Party 44 Event Hilton Christmas Charity Concert 56 11th Prague Security Conference European Union – Czechia – Asia: Challenges and opportunities for economy, trade and security 59 ELAI From Survivors to Winners 62 Skal Christmas Gala Dinner Dance Party 72 ČSÚZ The End of 2015 in the Czechoslovak Foreign Institute 78 Gala Evening Representative Ball of Central Bohemian Region 83 Oracle Press Conference Oracle Launches EMEA Recruitment Drive To Add 1,400 New Cloud Sales Professionals

C ontents

culture events

92 Gala Evening Face of the Year 2015 – Women in Arts

interviews 5 An interview with Ing. Július Kriváň, Commercial Director of Zelpo When traditional industry paves way to modern times 28 An interview with Alena Vitásková, Chairwoman of the Energy Regulatory Office 32 An interview with Pavel Krtek M.Sc., Chairman of the Board of Czech Railways, a.s.

We want to focus on customers!

37 An interview with Michal Ďorď, Founder of “Vteřina poté” 42 An interview with Hynek Kmoníček, Advisor to the President Smiling is just an automatic reaction 48 An interview with Lukáš Répal, Manager of Operations and FM at The Dubai Mall Life is like a boomerang 52 An interview with Her Excellency Livia Klausová, Ambassador of the Czech Republic to Slovakia Czech-Slovak relations are truly exceptional

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Centrum Paraple exhibition Charity Auction Exhibition – galerie Miro Marianna Gartner (Obrazy/Paintings) Exhibition – galerie Miro Eileen Cooper RA BETWEEN THE LINES / MEZI ŘÁDKY

Miro, Marianna Gartner (Obrazy/Paintings)

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From left: PhDr. MgA. Miro Smolák, Owner and Director, MIRO Gallery Prague, Marianna Gartner, Artist, and H. E. Otto Jelinek, Ambassador, Embassy of Canada, Prague

An interview with Her Excellency Livia Klausová, Ambassador of the Czech Republic to Slovakia Photo: Archive

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Diplomatic Event Austrian National Day FRYDAY Diplomatic Forum with H.E. Pedro Calvo-Sotello, Ambassador of Spain FRYDAY Diplomatic Forum with H.E. Ahmet Necati Bigali, Ambassador of Turkey FRYDAY Diplomatic Forum with H.E. Pablo Macedo Riba, Ambassador of Mexico Diplomats without Diplomatic Passports Klára Skřivánková The Ambassadors without Diplomatic Passports from the Backstage Living a life on tip-toes

Austrian National Day 64 An interview with Tomáš Prouza, State Secretary for European Affairs “Even though some people may wish so, there is no danger the European Union would fall apart.”

76 An interview with Josef Švenda, CEO, Oracle Czech Republic On the ICT as means of savings and on Prague more and more attracting the cloud 84 An interview with Andrej Hryc, popular Slovak Actor and Director Please, help me return the synagogue to Bratislava!

90 An interview with Rupert Simoner, CEO, Vienna House On Viennese tradition, legacy and journey to modernity

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Guests at Žofín Palace

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contributors 35

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Emanuel Šíp The koruna depreciation – an apt decision or a dead end street?

Tereza Urbánková Is knowledge still power?

Cristina Muntean The Challenge for 2016: Truthful Communications Jan Muehlfeit Charisma – Learn the secrets of personal charm!

Sanjiv Suri The Power of Attention Iva and Joseph Drebitko Naples, the city of contrasts Jonathan Wootliff Historic climate change agreement: a victory for the Czech Republic Ivan Pilný Generation Y James A. Cusumano Life Is Beautiful Michael Mayher Is There a Plan B

James A. Cusumano Life is Beautiful

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Publisher: Benke Aikell Head of Editorial: Lenka Helena Koenigsmark IT Manager: Michael Serences Office Assistant: Tatiana Fominykh DTP: Šárka Krausová EU Matters: CEBRE Czech Business Representation, CESES, Europlatform Contributors: James A. Cusumano, Iva Drebitko, Joseph Drebitko, Michael Mayher, ELAI, Martina Hošková, Lenka Helena Koenigsmark, Jaroslav Kramer, Jan Mühlfeit, Cristina Muntean, Ivan Pilný, Emanuel Šíp, Linda Štucbartová, Tereza Urbánková, Jonathan Wootliff Photographers: Alexandra Alvarová, Roland Hilmar, Martin Janas, Antonín Lavrenčík, Paul Pacey, Petra Sera, Vladimír Weiss, Martin Tiso, Ondřej Besperát, Michal Pavlík, Ekaterina Gritt and Hans Weber, Jakub Ludvík, Hana Brožková, Jiří Turek, Juraj Bončo, Roman Delikát, Miguel Alonso Subscription: Czech & Slovak Leaders, U Zvonařky 16, 120 00 Praha 2 We appreciate your opinions of Czech & Slovak Leaders.

Figure 1: The totality of consciousness in the universe consists of Personal, Collective and Cosmic Consciousness.

EU matters 100 EU matters interview An interview with Dita Charanzová, Member of the European Parliament 102 EU debate V4 Digital Day 104 EU matters business

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Please send them to: Czech & Slovak Leaders U Zvonařky 16, 120 00 Praha 2 tel.: +420 773 515 111 e-mail: info@czechleaders.com www.czechleaders.com Licence: MK ČR E 13147 No reproduction is permitted in whole or part without the express consent of Czech & Slovak Leaders.

The advertiser is responsible for the advertising contents.

Opinions expressed in this publication are those of the authors or persons interviewed and do not necessarily reflect the views of the editors or Czech & Slovak Leaders.

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by Czech & Slovak Leaders either in printed form or in various digital media. All correspondence to Czech & Slovak Leaders Magazine may be published.

An

interview with I ng .

J úlius K riváň , C ommercial D irector

of

Z elpo

When Traditional Industry Paves Way to Modern Times

The fate and reputation of the steel industry in Central Europe could be compared to a classic “Cinderella” fairy tale. Classic but a bit obsolete and not making the headlines when compared to “trendy“ industries such as IT, biotechnology and others associated with creative start-ups. However, as the example of Železiarne Podbrezová located in Central Slovakia shows, when history and legacy not only meet current needs but also present a visionary outlook to the future, a unique story based on both local and global partnerships is created. The holistic approach of a company that has a 175 year-old history and puts people in the centre of success brings about a long-lasting and fruitful partnership that extends from a private secondary metallurgical vocational school and private high school, continues to sport clubs and reaches beyond to the preservation of the medieval castle of Ľupča or development of the Tále region.

It is exactly thanks to the visionary approach benefitting the whole region and the impact made in several countries in Central Europe that the Czech & Slovak Leaders Magazine has the privilege to feature the first Slovak citizen on its cover page. Meet Mr. Július Kriváň who has been a member of the board of Železiarne Podbrezová a.s. and also the sales director of the company for a quarter of the century.

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Opening ceremony of the new football stadium in Podbrezová 201, from left: Július Kriváň, President of the Football Club ŽP Šport Podbrezová, Ľubor Schwarzbacher, Member of the Board of Directors of Železiarne Podbrezová a.s., and Mr. Jozef Marčok, General Manager, ŽP Šport Podbrezová

Mr. Kriváň, you have dedicated more than three decades not only to one industry, but also to one company. Such loyalty and perseverance is quite unprecedented when judged according to current trends. Can you tell us more about your career journey?

To be exact, it has been already 37 years since I joined the company. During the last two years at the university I was given scholarship on merit from a steel factory, so my mind had been made up even before I graduated from the university.

I chose the steel factory despite the fact that my father was an HR director of a neighbouring company producing sand; after he realised that I was going to start my career elsewhere he had not spoken to me for six months. My family and grandparents moved to Podbrezová when I was eight and I have been living here ever since. My education was quite special for that era: I studied a secondary technical school and then I went to the university to Bratislava to study foreign trade.

One must bear in mind that during the times of Communism it was very difficult for someone who finished a regional technical secondary school to enter a university. I owe this to my father as he helped me with his support and connections.

I am quite open about this fact because nowadays not very many people realise how different the times were then. On the other hand, I have never disappointed those who had given me the chance to study. After finishing my studies and completing one year of compulsory military service, I started as the head of new production.

Over the time, I held interesting positions when I was introducing a new IT system to the company, I was handling the system of orders and then I became the head of sales and marketing department. For the last 25 years, I have held the

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position of the sales director and a member of the board. By the way, I also brought my wife from Bratislava to Podbrezová. If I am to summarise in one word the reason why I made the decision the way I did: I felt I would be given an opportunity there. And the opportunity that is exactly what I myself am trying to give to young people.

For younger or foreign readers, can you reflect on the changes brought by the Velvet Revolution?

It was definitely a big change. I just want to remind everybody that during the Communist times, more than 80% of production capacity went directly to the USSR as something that resembled a barter trade. The trade was organised on the state level with the support of Ferromet company. But the fall of the Communism and consequently the collapse of markets of the former Communist countries were not the last significant change for our company. The next significant change was brought by the separation of Czechoslovakia in 1992. Since 1992, my primary task was to build our own sales network and since then we established our dealerships in Prague, Poland, Italy and in Germany. The dealership in Italy uses the contacts to represent us in distant countries, such as the United States, Kuwait, South Korea and Australia. I am proud to say that since 1994 the sales network has been capable to secure 100% of sales of production capacity. From Podbrezová, we directly serve the Balkan countries, Romania, Bulgaria and Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania.

Where did you get the idea to enter the western markets? I can imagine that such

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a move was quite daring in beginning of the 1990s.

Since late 1991 until 1992 we had closely cooperated with a Swiss consulting company and we had done a year lasting internship. We used to spend four to five days per month in Lausanne and we got the idea that we needed to be directly present in the markets where we wanted to sell. I also got the inspiration from other western competitors. And the model setup has proven to be working for more than 23 years. My approach to the business is quite simple and stems from the belief that both sides need to be satisfied. Selling in our case is a truly continuous work; we produce about 25,000 tonnes of material each month and this is done best with the help of local people who know and can respond to the needs of local customers.

How was the steel industry affected by the economic crisis?

Well, that crisis in steel industry did not last very long, only from 2008 until 2009, compared to other industries. The fact, not often mentioned nowadays, is that there is another crisis going on since May 2015. Prices hit the record low and the steel industry has to bear the consequence of overcapacity from China and the United States. This year, we have lost the US market completely. Of course, we are trying to look at new territories, such as Vietnam, but these tend to be rather problematic at the beginning of cooperation. More than ten thousand jobs were lost as a consequence of the current crisis in the steel industry all over Europe. We hope that the EU will come

An About Železiarne Podbrezová a.s.

Having consolidated a turnover close to 500 million EUR, Železiarne Podbrezová ranks among 15 largest businesses in Slovakia. The company employs almost 7,000 people in Slovakia, Czech Republic, Spain, Italy, Poland and Germany. As an integrated producer of steel and seamless steel tubes, it produces 160,000 tonnes of seamless steel tubes per year, which makes the company one of the leading manufactures in this industry in Europe. With its own sales and marketing network, the company runs its sales in 50 countries on all 5 continents worldwide.

Ladies European Golf Tour2013, Gray Bear Tále – Július Kriváň with professional golf player Cheyenne Woods

About Július Kriváň Július Kriváň began his career with Železiarne Podbrezová a.s. in 1978 after he had completed his studies at the Economic University, field of study Foreign Trade, in Bratislava. Over the years, he gained experience holding various roles in the Sales Department until he became the Head of Sales and Marketing Department in 1982.

Eight years later, he was promoted to Commercial Director and Member of the Board and he has held these positions ever since.

interview with I ng .

J úlius K riváň , C ommercial D irector

of

Z elpo

up with some anti-dumping measures not only against China, but also against Russia or Ukraine. We are represented by the European Steel Tube Association and although we have a support on the level of the European Commission, due to complicated processes related to the EU bureaucracy, it takes a long time to implement any measures. While the United States is able to react and introduce anti-dumping measures within weeks, on the EU level, it usually takes several months.

each year find work in our company and they are ready to start working in a particular position. Those who wish, can continue their studies at the university. I am aware of the fact that other companies in Slovakia have shortage of technical skilled labour. The technical and construction work is still very much underestimated since few people are aware of the fact how closely it is linked to much needed innovation and design of new forms of production.

There is a famous quote saying “We should not moor a ship with one anchor or our life with one hope”. Given your busy schedule and great business achievements, what are your other anchors?

You and I have in common remembering Czechoslovakia, so how do you personally feel about the separation of those two countries? And how are current Czech-Slovak relations being perceived by the new generation in Slovakia?

I have always had a high regard for my family and I feel and value their support. I have tried to compensate for the time when I was not with them, and not only in the form of presents but also in form of time spent together, for example during vacations when we travelled a lot. And then I am a big fan of sports, actively and passively. Železiarne Podbrezová continuously supports several sport clubs, a football club, a volleyball club, a golf club and skiing activities. Last but not least, I am a big fan of skittles and I am also a member of the Executive Board of Slovak Skittle Union. My interest in skittles goes back to my family tradition. My grandfather was a carpenter and he used to carve skittles in his free time and supplied local pubs with them. In Podbrezová, there has been a long skittle tradition and our team even won the Slovak National League. We used to have only old two lanes; however, the championships are played on four lanes. So it was in 1997 with the reconstruction of the vocational school when we built six lanes and now we have three teams competing in the national league.

You mentioned that already in 1990 all seven members of Železiarne Podbrezová Board decided not only to give work to people in the region but also to contribute to the social dimension of the regional development.

Besides supporting sport activities for young people, your company also runs two private schools.

The first being vocational school with a dual system of education, the second being a high school preparing students for universities.

The vocational school prepares our expert skilled workers. People do not realise that these workers operate high-tech machinery.

Just imagine that a rolling mill machine produces 600-700 of tonnes of material per day and when it breaks down, it needs to be repaired, disassembled and assembled quickly. If this equipment is broken, production stops. All 60 students finishing

I still perceive it as a decision made by two politicians and not based on referendum.

I personally believe that had the referendum taken place, the split of the country would not have occurred. Now, it has been a reality for 23 years. What I see is that the new generation does not have the close ties that we used to have across the country and most of all, they do not understand the language. During the times of Czechoslovakia, you had the news one day in Czech, another day in Slovak. The same was true about movies, theatre plays, books and magazines. The languages were really close. Today, everything is subtitled even from Czech and Slovak and the nations are not as close as they used to be. My daughter lives in Prague and when I come there and start ordering food in Slovak, no one understands me.

What are your final words to Czech & Slovak Leaders readers?

I would very much like to point out the long tradition of the steel industry in Podbrezová.

I hope that the 175 year old tradition will continue. The industry faces a difficult situation but our company is big enough to deal with that. My life motto taken from my grandfather is that anything is possible if you have the right mindset. I believe that the young generation will take their chance and use opportunities afforded to them. I was also given my chance when I was 25 years old. Last but not least, I would like to extend my invitation to our region surrounding Podbrezová, so you can try yourself our hospitality, including our premium sport and skiing facilities. We try to do our best to provide the top quality services and to present to our guests our beautiful region where the past meets the present.

By Linda Štucbartová české znění naleznete v elektronické verzi magazínu na www.czechleaders.com

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S tate V isit

President

P hoto : A rchive KPR, H ana B rožková

of the Czech Republic, Mr. Miloš Zeman received mrs. Park Geun-Hye, President of the Korean Republic

Official welcome

President of the Czech Republic, Mr. Miloš Zeman received Mrs. Park Geun-Hye, P resident of the K orean R epublic in P rague , D ecember 1 st – 4 th , 2015.

Mrs. Park Geun-Hye, President of the Korean Republic and Miloš Zeman, President of the CR

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Mrs. Park Geun-Hye, President of the Korean Republic and Miloš Zeman, President of the CR at the press conference

C zech &S lovak L eaders I/ 2016

Czech-Korean Business and Culture Forum

S tate V isit

P hoto : A rchive KPR, H ana B rožková

President of the Czech Republic, received Mr. Reuven Rivlin, President of the State of Israel

From left: Reuven Rivlin, President of the State of Israel and Miloš Zeman, President of the CR at the press conference

Official welcome

Mr. Miloš Zeman in

P rague , O ctober 20 th – 23 rd

From left: Mrs. Ivana Zemanová, Reuven Rivlin, President of the State of Israel, Miloš Zeman, President od the CR, and Mrs. Nechama Rivlin

Terezin

Czech-Israeli Business Forum

National Day of the Czech Republic O ctober 28, 2015 M r . Miloš Zeman, P resident of the C zech R epublic attended a ceremony at the N ational Monument on V ítkov and together with his wife M rs . I vana Z emanová hosted members of the diplomatic corps .

I n the afternoon he attended swearing -in ceremony of the Army of the Czech Republic at Hradcany Square. D uring the traditional gala evening in the V ladislav H all of P rague C astle the president held a traditional speech and awarded state honors .

Miloš Zeman with the state honors holders Tribute to Tomáš Garrigue Masaryk, First President of the Czechoslovakia

Miloš Zeman, President of the CR at the ceremony speech

Vítkov Hill

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New Year´s Meeting of Senators and Journalists Traditionally, at the beginning of a new year, the Senate held a meeting with journalists. On Twelfth Night, about thirty senators met with representatives of printed, audio-visual, and electronic media. Chairman of the Senate acknowledged cooperation of the media in 2015 and mentioned some cornerstones of a new year that will be an election year for a third of senators. At the end of 2016, the upper chamber of the Parliament will also commemorate the 20th anniversary of its foundation.

Vice Chairman of the Senate, Ivo Bárek with ČT Editors Anna Chudobová and Karolína Jelínková

Eva Davidová, Press Secretary of the Senate, Milan Štěch, Chairman of the Senate, and Vladimír Keblúšek, ČT Editor

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Václav Dolejší, Editor, Hospodářské noviny and Jaroslav Zeman, Senator for ODS

Štěpánka Martanová, ČT Editor with Vice Chairmen of the Senate Přemysl Sobotka and Zdeněk Škromach

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Petr Vašek, ČT Editor with Miroslav Antl, Chairman of the Constitutional Committee

In the background Jiří Uklein, Chancellor of the Senate, Hassan Mezian and Eva Syková, Senators, and Milan Štěch, Chairman of the Senate in his speech

Vladimír Keblúšek and Pavla Kubálková, ČT Editors with Jiří Dienstbier, Minister for Human Rights and Senator

Zdeňka Hamousová, Senator and Jan Borůvka, Secretary, ANO Club in the Senate

Zdeněk Škromach, Vice Chairman of the Senate and Emílie Třísková, Senator

Michal Burian and Martin Horák, ČTK Reporters, Miluše Horská, Vice Chairwoman of the Senate, and Petr Holubec, ČTK Chief Editor

Zbyněk Linhart, Senator and Jitka Seitlová, Senator

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First panel of the Key Factors of Success conference

Key Factors of Success 20th International Conference

New Gallery, Prague Castle, November 27, 2015 As part of the “D” day of the Czech 100 Best competition 2015 Comenius Society organized 20th international conference “Key Factors of Success” in the morning hours of November 27. More than 100 participants – top managers from significant Czech companies, but also diplomats and representatives from the state administration – have traditionally filled the New Gallery Hall at the Prague Castle and listened to the presentations delivered by their colleagues, all of whom had a lot to say about how to reach success and what success means.

Cheng Yongru, Commercial Attache, Embassy of PRC

gen. Tomáš Tuhý, President, Czech Police

Klára Sovová, Chairman of the Board, AEZZ Mojmír Čapka, Chairman of the Board, Brisk

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Karolína Topolová, General Director, AAA Auto

Ivan Pilný, Chairman, Economic Committee, Chamber of Deputies of the Parliament

Ladislav Vitoul, Owner, Vápenka Vitoul

Ladislav Vitoul, Owner, Vápenka Vitoul awarding Karel Muzikář

Martina Vítková, CFO & Deputy Chairman of the Board, NWT

From left: Eliška Coolidge Hašková and Tamara Kotvalová, Owner, Carollinum

Marek Hoffmann, Managing Director, Kovovýroba Hoffmann

Jiří Rusnok, Member of the banking Board, Czech National Bank

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the best is to be the best Lady Pro 2015

Gentleman Pro 2015

GALA EVENING CZECH 100 BEST PRAGUE CASTLE, November 27, 2015 Comenius, Pan European Society for Culture, Education, Scientific & Technical Cooperation, organized the “CZECH 100 BEST” for already 20th time.

The award ceremony Czech 100 Best, this year November 27, traditionally took place at the Spanish Hall at the presence of more than 650 VIP guests including the Deputy President of the Senate of the Parliament of the Czech Republic Mr. Zdeněk Škromach, Minister of Industry and Trade Mr. Jan Mládek, Minister of Labor and Social Affairs Mrs. Michaela Marksová, Deputy Minister of Health Mrs. Lenka Teska Arnoštová, President of the Czech Police Mr. Tomáš Tuhý, Chief of Staff of the Czech Army Gen. Lt. Josef Bečvář, President of the Czech Chamber of Agriculture Mr. Miroslav Toman, Chancellor of the Office of the President of the Czech Republic Mr. Vratislav Mynář and others.

During the evening companies or institutions were awarded in eight categories which have an immediate impact on the living standard of the Czech population, that is: Tourism and Hotel Industry, Transport and Civil Constructions, Dynamic Growth and Stability, Invention – Commitment – Export – Profit, Information and Communication Technologies, Agriculture and Food Industry, Employment and Manufacturing Cooperatives, and Health – Education – Humanity.

One of the peaks of the whole evening was the awarding of nine exceptional ladies with the popular title “Lady Pro”. Five gentlemen were awarded with the traditional title “Gentleman Pro”.

The climax of the ceremony was the awarding of the ten companies, “best of the best” in the Czech Republic and their representatives received the awards from the hands of the Deputy President of the Senate Mr. Zdeněk Škromach.

Family Vitoul

The best in the category „DYNAMIC GROWTH AND STABILITY“

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the best is to be the best

The best in the category „INFORMATION TECHNOLOGIES“

Karel Kuthan, awarded in category Agriculture & Food Industry with his wife

From left: Martina & David Vítek, Owners, NWT, and Eva Dokoupilová, Managing Director, Medical Plus with her husband

Tomáš Březina, Owner, Best and his beautiful company

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Pavel Krtek, Chairman of the Board, Czech Railways with his partner

From left: Gen. Tomáš Tuhý, President, Czech Police with his partner and Lenka Teska Arnoštová, Deputy Minister of Health and Deputy Chairman of ČSSD with her partner

Karel Masařík, General Director, Codasip receiving diploma in the category „INFORMATION TECHNOLOGIES“ from hands of the President of Czech Police, gen. Tomáš Tuhý

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Col. Kateřina Rendlová, Lady Pro 2015 with her company

Jan Podroužek, Director, The Institute for Language and Preparatory Studies, Charles University in Prague awarded in category Health – Education – Humanity and company

Zdeněk Škromach, Deputy Chairman, Senate of the Parliament of the CR with his partner

Mr. Jiří Rubáš with the company

The best in the category „TOURISM & HOTEL INDUSTRY“

Stanislav Zíma, Marketing Director, EXIM Tour, receiving diploma in the category „TOURISM & HOTEL INDUSTRY“

From left: Vratislav Mynář, Chancellor, Office of the President of the CR and Gen. Josef Bečvář, Chief of the General Staff, Armed Forces of the CR with his partner

Sanjiv Suri, President, Zátiší Catering Group receiving diploma in the category „TOURISM & HOTEL INDUSTRY“

Tomáš Rutrle, General Director, Comix receiving diploma in the category „INFORMATION TECHNOLOGIES“

Tomáš Tašek, Managing Director, ASE receiving diploma from hands of the Minister of Industry and Trade, Mr. Jan Mládek in the category „CIVIL CONSTRUCTIONS & TRANSPORT“

Olga Hyklová, Managing Director, Advantage Consulting receiving diploma in the category „EMPLOYMENT & MANUFACTURING COOPERATIVES“ from hands of the Minister of Labor and Social Affairs, Mrs. Michaela Marksová

Jiří Maceška, Vice President, Czech-Israel Chamber of Commerce receiving diploma in the category „TOURISM & HOTEL INDUSTRY“ from hands of Chancellor, Mr. Vratislav Mynář

From left: Vratislav Mynář, Chancellor, Office of the President of the CR with his wife, Martin Diviš, General Director, Kooperativa Pojišťovna, and Ivo Valenta, Owner, Synot and Senator

CZECH&SLOVAK LEADERS I/2016

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The best in the category „HEALTH – EDUCATION – HUMANITY“

Models of Tatiana

TOP TEN out of Czech 100 Best

Mojmír Čapka, Chairman of the Board, BRISK Tábor receiving diploma in category „INVENTION - COMMITMENT - EXPORT - PROFIT“ from hands of the Minister of Industry and Trade, Mr. Jan Mládek

The best in the category „AGRICULTURE & FOOD INDUSTRY“

Bohdan Wojnar, Member of the Board, Škoda Auto the best of the best receiving diploma from hands of Zdeněk Škromach, Deputy Chairman, Senate of the Parliament of the CR

18

Vladimír Mráz, Owner, Mráz Agro receiving diploma in the category „AGRICULTURE & FOOD INDUSTRY“ from hands of the President of Agricultural Chamber of the CR, Mr. Miroslav Toman

The best in the category „CIVIL CONSTRUCTIONS & TRANSPORT“

From left: Gen. Josef Bečvář, Chief of the General Staff, Armed Forces of the CR with his partner and Alessandro Pasquale, Generel Director, Karlovarské minerální vody and company with a friend

the best is to be the best

From left: Jolana Voldánová, Moderator, Daniel Takáč, Moderator, and Karel Muzikář, President, Comenius

Ivan Bauer, Chairman of the Board, PP53 receiving diploma in the category „CIVIL CONSTRUCTIONS & TRANSPORT“

George Parobek, Owner, Ifield Computer Consultancy receiving diploma in the category „INFORMATION TECHNOLOGIES“

Petr Vondruška, Director Czech Republic, PSJ receiving diploma in the category „CIVIL CONSTRUCTIONS & TRANSPORT“

From left: H.E. Otto Jelinek, Ambassador of Canada and Zdeněk Škromach, Deputy Chairman, Senate of the Parliament of the CR with his partner

Prof. Pavel Kolář receiving diploma in category „HEALTH – EDUCATION – HUMANITY“ from hands of the Deputy Minister of Health, Mrs. Lenka Teska Arnoštová

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networking / discussion event

Round Table of Comenius

Discussion Dinner with Mr. Dan Ťok, Minister of Transport In cooperation with Czech & Slovak Leaders

Prague Congress Centre, ZOOM Unique Place – October 1, 2015

From left: Jan Klas, General Director, Air Navigation Services of the CR, Dan Ťok, Minister of Transport, Karel Muzikář, President, Comenius, Bohdan Wojnar, Member of the Board, Škoda Auto, and Zbyněk Savara, Director of Regional Sales, České dráhy

At the very beginning of October, 70 high level business people gathered to participate in the Round Table of Comenius – discussion dinner with the Minister of Transport, Mr. Dan Ťok. The result was a lively debate covering all topics from the minister’s agenda ranging from the road traffic (as the main point) through air travel, trains and shipping.

From left: Antonín Machala, Director, Altech and Jaroslav Kratochvíl, Director, Hospital Česká Lípa

From left: Petr Choulík, General Director, LindeGas and Jiří Nekovář, President, Euro - Trend

Libor Joukl, Deputy Governor of Vysočina Region

Jiří Nekovář, President, Euro - Trend

20

CZECH&SLOVAK LEADERS I/2016

Iveta Hrabánková, Director of Special Projects, Vodafone CR

networking / discussion event

From left: Martin Bílek, Managing Director, Ford Kačmáček, Radim Passer, Owner, Passerinvest Group, and Martin Unger, Member of the Board, Passerinvest Group

From left: Michal Kadera, Director, External Affairs, Škoda Auto, Bohdan Wojnar, Member of the Board, Škoda Auto, Dan Ťok, Minister of Transport, Karel Muzikář Sr., President, Comenius, and Karel Muzikář Jr., Managing Partner, Weil, Gotshal & Manges

From left: Zbyněk Fibich, Deputy Director, Planning & Development, Air Navigation Services of the CR, Jiří Ješata, Director of Sales, České dráhy, and Lt Gen Ret. František Padělek, Deputy Mayor, City of Roudnice nad Labem

Petr Veselý, General Director, Prague Congress Center and Hana Dluhošová, Director of Investment Department, České dráhy

From left: Miroslav Hala, Director of Sales, Air Navigation Services of the CR, Hana Dluhošová, Director of Investment Department, České dráhy, and Libor Joukl, Deputy Governor of Vysočina Region

From left: Petr Choulík, General Director, LindeGas, Pavel Švagr, Chairman, Administration of State Material Reserves, Libor Joukl, Deputy Governor of Vysočina Region, Michal Štefl, General Director, OHL ŽS, Gabriela Ben Ahmed, Publisher, COT Media, and Vladimír Starosta, President, ČESMAD Bohemia

From left: Jaromír Šlápota, Chairman, Czechoslovak Foreign Institute and Martin Bílek, Managing Director, Ford Kačmáček

From left: Karel Muzikář, President, Comenius, Bohdan Wojnar, Member of the Board, Škoda Auto, and Bohuslav Navrátil, Deputy General Director, Railway Infrastructure Administration

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networking / discussion event

In

cooperation with czech

&

slovak leaders

Round Table of Comenius Discussion Dinner with Mr. Marian Jurečka, TOP hotel Praha – November 11, 2015 Minister of Agriculture At the mid of November, 70 high level business people gathered to participate in the Round Table of Comenius – discussion dinner with the Minister of Agriculture, Mr. Marian Jurečka. The result was a lively debate covering all topics from the minister’s agenda ranging from fishing to high-end technologies. Special emphasis was put on the problem of lacking water reserves and the report of the Minister was not very optimistic.

The Round Table of Comenius – discussion dinner with the Minister of Agriculture

From left: Zdeněk Jahoda, Owner, EMCO and Karel Kuthan, Farmer

22

Svatava Maradová, Director, Státní pozemkový úřad and prof. Jiří Balík, President, Czech University of Life Scienses

From left: Josef Postránecký, Deputy Minister, Ministry of Interior and Pavel Švagr, Chairman, Administration of State Material Reserves

From left: Ondřej Beránek, General Director, Bohemia Sekt and Milan Malena, Director General, State Veterinary Administration

From left: Bohumil Belada, General Director & Chairman of the Board, Farmtec, Miroslav Toman, President, Agricultural Chamber of the Czech Republic & Federation of the Food and Drink Industries of the Czech Republic, Jan Hůda, Chairman of the Board, Rybářství Třeboň, Soňa van Deelen, General Director, Union of Czech and Moravian Production Co-operatives, and Jan Wiesner, Chairman, Confederation of Employers ‘and Entrepreneurs’ Associations of the Czech Republic

networking / discussion event

From left: Karel Kuthan, Farmer, Ladislav Vitoul, Owner, Vápenka Vitoul, Marian Jurečka, Minister, Karel Muzikář, President, Comenius, and Miroslav Toman, President, Agricultural Chamber of the Czech Republic & Federation of the Food and Drink Industries of the Czech Republic

From left: Karel Muzikář, President, Comenius, Marian Jurečka, Minister, and Eda Kauba, Chief Creative Officer, Havas Worldwide

From left: Marian Jurečka, Minister, Karel Muzikář, President, Comenius, Miroslav Toman, President, Agricultural Chamber of the Czech Republic & Federation of the Food and Drink Industries of the Czech Republic, and Jan Hůda, Chairman of the Board, Rybářství Třeboň

From left: Gabriela ben Ahmed, Owner, C.O.T. Media, prof. Jiří Balík, President, Czech University of Life Scienses, and Tom Čáp, Executive Vice President, Comenius

Gabriela ben Ahmed, Owner, C.O.T. Media and Jan Světlík, Owner, Vítkovice Holding

From left: Jan Horák, General Director, CR Project, Oldřich Reinbergr, General Director & Chairman of the Board, TTD Cukrovary, Kateřina Čáslavová, Co-Owner, Modella, and Jan Průcha, Chairman of the Board, Insight Home

From left: Zbyněk Fibich, Director of Department, Air Navigation Services of the CR and Jiří Fibich, Managing Director, AGRO Fibich

From left: Oldřich Reinbergr, General Director & Chairman of the Board, TTD Cukrovary, Zdenka Majzlíková, Director, Czech Breeding Inspectorate, and Josef Kubiš, Director, Agro Jesenice u Prahy Jiří Kysela, General Director, Dell Computer

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D iplomatic

event

Mr. Jiří Weigl with his son

n a i r t s Au

l a n o i t Na

Day

Guests at Žofín Palace

H.E. Otto Jelinek, Ambassador of Canada, with his wife

From left: Petra Slezaková, Project Manager, WIFI Czech Republic, Benke Aikell, your Publisher, Romana Hušková, WIFI Czech Republic, and Gabriela Vaňková, WIFI Czech Republic Guests at Žofín Palace

From left: Zuzana Hatašová, Customer Care Manager, Coffee Experts, Eliška Hašková Coolidge, Protocol Specialist, and Bc. Blanka Hatašová, Financial and Controlling Manager, Glanzstoff

24

CZECH&SLOVAK LEADERS I/2016

From left: Luciano Cirina, Chief Executive Officer, Generali CEE holding B.V., and H.E. Arndt Freiherr Freytag von Loringhoven, Ambassador of Germany

D iplomatic

event

H.E. Ferdinand Trauttmansdorff, Ambassador of Austria

From left: Klaus Pilz, Regional Director Czech Republic, Vienna International Hotels & Resorts and Prof. h.c.

Manfred Maus, former Chairman of the Board of Directors and Supervisory Board of OBI, with his wife

H.E. Ferdinand Trauttmansdorff, Ambassador of Austria and Mgr. Michaela Marksová – Tominová, Minister of Labour and Social Affairs

Julius Prüger, CEO, Amedis, with his family

Milan Štěch, Chairman of the Senate of the Czech Republic

Dr. Erwin Hanslik MRICS, Partner, Taylor Wessing

CZECH&SLOVAK LEADERS I/2016

25

From left: H.E. Ferdinand Trauttmansdorff , Ambassador of Austria, Mrs. Margrit Trauttmansdorff, and Milan Štěch, Chairman of the Senate of the Czech Republic, with his wife

From left: Mag. Christian Miller, Commercial Counsellor, Austrian Embassy, with his wife Mag. Helene Miller, and Dr. Alexander Grubmayr, Chief of Protocol of the President of Austria

In the middle: Miloslav Vlk, Cardinal, Nina Nováková, Member of the Parliament of the Czech Republic, and her husband

26

From left: Mrs. Gabriela Dvořáková and Eliška Hašková Coolidge, Protocol Specialist

CZECH&SLOVAK LEADERS I/2016

H.E. Ferdinand Trauttmansdorff , Ambassador of Austria with a gift glass sculpture from the renowned artist David Černý

From left: Cyril Svoboda, Director, Diplomatic Academy, and Jaroslav Šonka, Journalist and Advisor

From left: Mgr. Michaela Marksová – Tominová, Minister of Labour and Social Affairs, and H.E. Jan Thompson, Ambassador of the United Kingdom of Great Britain to the Czech Republic

From left: Ing Michal Polák, City of Vienna, Mayor’s Office, with his partner, and Dr. Jan Koukal, Special Advisor to the IIASA Director General and CEO, with his wife Lucie

From left: Cyril Svoboda, Director, Diplomatic Academy, with his wife, Ondřej Závodský, Deputy Minister of Finance, and Martin Boruta, delegate of the Deputy Minister – External Relations, Ministry of Finance

From left: Dr. Alexander Grubmayr, Chief of Protocol of the President of Austria, and Mgr. Daniel Herman, Minister of Culture

From left: Harald Hölzl, General Manager, BMW Group Czech Republic, and Martin Gärtner, Deputy Head of Mission, Austrian Embassy

Ing. Rudolf Rabiňák, Executive Director and Member of the Board, Corporate Banking, Raiffeisen Bank with family

From left: H.E. Ferdinand Trauttmansdorff , Ambassador of Austria, and Dr. Alexander Grubmayr, Chief of Protocol of the President of Austria (designated new Austrian Ambassador to the Czech Republic)

27

Alena Vitásková ERO

P hoto : A rchive

I was anxious to interview a woman that ranks among top managers in the Czech Republic and has devoted four decades of her professional life to the energy sector, namely the gas industry. She is publicly known as being “as sharp as a razor” and her media image is heavily influenced by many charges that have been filed against her since she assumed the position of the Chairwoman of the Energy Regulatory Office. She has been in charge of the institution since 2011 – the term in office lasts 6 years.

When I met Mrs. Vitásková personally, I enjoyed her profound knowledge and the ability to present rather controversial arguments regarding new trends in renewable energy that are in sharp contrast with the public opinion in a way that even a layman understands. I was astonished at how frank and open she was regarding the issue we both care about – overall diversity, not only gender but also generational one, overall low

28

presence of women in Board positions and their unequal treatment in highest top-management positions including a salary gap difference. I also admired her strong determination as well as her ability to deal with all the external pressures given several accusations she has to face that eventually brought her living under the police custody. Last but not least, we discussed her involvement in charities and her life credo to give and support those in need but not to make it necessarily public.

Mrs. Vitásková, your life and career is associated with one sector – energy, namely gas. What was the reason that you, being a 17-year old girl, decided to choose the typically male technical discipline in the era of “normalisation” in the Communist Czechoslovakia of the 1970s?

Well, my family background was not the Communist one and despite the fact that

CZECH&SLOVAK LEADERS I/2016

I was a high school A grade student, I was not accepted to the university as a full-time student.

So I had to opt for a scheme that enabled me studying while working full time. At that time, the building of North Moravian Gas Company was located in the most modern building in Ostrava, having a radio in each office. I could feel the progressive environment, I liked the music being played there and so I started to work there as an administrative assistant, making my way eventually to the top. Then, after the turn of the millennium, I was responsible for the privatisation of Transgas with a much larger scope of involvement in international gas trade.

Such international co-operation proved useful two years ago, when I initiated co-operation with other energy regulators from Visegrad countries (Poland, Hungary, Slovakia). I must say that after the Velvet Revolution I was made an incredible offer to start a subsidiary of an international company in the then Czechoslovakia but in a different industry. The month salary equalled to an annual salary including incredible benefits, but I had to turn the offer down. I realised, and later I had to explain to the surprised management of that company, that I would not be able to smell “the odorant”, specifically “the smell” of the substance tetrahydrothiophene added to gas so people can smell and recognise a dangerous leak.

So I believe this story demonstrates my passion for and fascination with the specific gas industry that has lasted for more than four decades.

Your move from the private sector to the public sector represents another interesting aspect of your career journey which is in contrast to the more recurrent trend in the Czech Republic where politicians in particular tend to move in the other direction, from the public sphere to the private one. What was your motivation to join the civil sector that does not have the best reputation?

My overall aim is to set a transparent and fair environment to all players involved in the sector and protect customers. I can say that I was familiar with the energy environment from the other side, during liberalisation and privatisation I knew how the regulation was drafted and how it originated. At that time, I was not aware of the challenge brought by the subsidisation of the renewable resources. I was aware of the problems with photovoltaic energy power stations and I prevented the possible repetition of the problem with regards to gas biomethane.

I believe that I stopped the uncontrollable subsidising of renewable resources at the right moment, given that the regulation is set for a 20-

An

interview with

year time period and the financial consequences of such continuous support would be beyond any financial control. I am known for fighting the “mafia in the energy sector” that is very powerful and my determination to fight these groups is very strong. I have never heard any criticism from the government or from the experts. However, I have experienced how the energy mafia is able to exercise its pressure using certain media, state prosecutors, individual politicians. However, given my personality, these attempts come in vain. The more I fell under pressure, the more strengths I find to fight these unfair practices back.

In general, life stories of leaders can be divided into two categories. The ones enjoying life as a journey and the others having a particular life mission. In your story, I have seen both trends. Which characteristics suit you better?

You are right. During the first part of my career I see the journey pattern. However, I have always had a desire to create something that would remain even after I leave. The building in Ostrava, mentioned earlier that brought me to the gas industry, was ready for demolition 30 years later.

However, I did not want to let it destroy and the headquarters to move elsewhere. So I fought for its reconstruction; the reconstruction was so successful that it received a special award and I managed to preserve something of a historic value. In various positions, I was always interested in implementing something new, be it the most modern IT systems or customer relationship management systems. Now, during my position at the ERU, I see my mission in setting up and protecting fair environment and vulnerable players.

You have been ranking in the Top 25 Czech Women in Business chart and you were awarded the Manager of the Year in 2002.

How would you describe your leadership style?

I know that I am very demanding. I am harsh on myself so I have the tendency to be demanding on others. But whenever I was leaving, the employees were saying “the fairy-tale with Alenka is over”, despite my high performance oriented character and challenging discussions I used to have with my colleagues, given my vast experience in the industry combined with technical education background. Now, diversity seems to be a current issue, but it has been my natural tendency to have teams always comprised of three generations, the experienced ones, the young ones and those in between.

I have built those teams and we achieved great results. When I started to work for Transgas, it used to be 2 bn. in debt. We immediately launched 13 projects to raise the value of the company prior to privatisation and analysts expected the best bids between 60-80 bn. CZK. The final sum obtained in privatisation was 134 bn. CZK which shows how well the company was prepared and how highly valued it was by the foreign investors.

A lena V itásková , E nergy R egulatory O ffice , C hairwoman

Let us get from management back to energy, in particular to the controversial issue of renewable resources. Despite the growing support for green trends in society, you again go against the current in outlining the risks these resources present.

There are two points to this argument. The first one is that I do not like to see renewable resources as an opportunity for one particular group to get profitable business with subsidies at the expense of others concerned, particularly consumers. The other side of this is the decision made on the EU level to go and support such policies and I will keep challenging this decision.

I believe the decision was made without any previous consideration about the overall impact.

I compare it to the situation when an innovation is being introduced to production without any additional technical changes. Yes, I see renewable resources as a new possibility of acquiring energy but we need to have exactly allocated finances together with technical background. I support innovation but only when it has clearly defined limits. I am convinced that unprecedented support of renewable resources will negatively impact the development in energy sector in next 20 years. The overall amount of energy from stable resources has been declining, the purchase price is declining but at the same time, due to subsidies, the energy price for the consumer is rising.

Not very many people realise the risk associated with the renewable energy due to insufficient technical solutions with power grids. With the decline of energy coming from Germany, the Czech Republic is in the danger of blackout, even though our distributional network is perfectly fine. And then we are getting closer to scenarios that some people can consider from the realm of sci-fi, but in fact are very real. How many days can our society function without electrical energy?

The experts say that chaos will come after three days, total collapse after seven. Just imagine the amount of people immediately stuck in elevators, chaos on roads, hospitals without electricity, market failure due to malfunctioning banking systems and ATM machines, and so on. The current system needs to be more technically advanced as well as backed up and possible investments will be enormous. It is also worth mentioning that the more clever and sophisticated systems, the bigger risk of possible cyberattacks.

How do you cope with being under constant pressure?

My grandmother used to repeat the Czech proverb that“a man gets used to anything, even to gallows”. And I realised that this is truth. My father died when I was only 12 years old and I have two younger siblings that I had to take care of. I have already mentioned that I was not allowed to study, so since rather early age I got used to facing somewhat hostile conditions. On the other hand, I learned how not to give up easily. I have always loved what I was doing and work is actually also a hobby of mine and so I get the energy back.

Whenever I come to work on Monday, I look if

the police are present. If they are not present, I go and work as usual. After the police visits, I usually do not sleep for a couple of days. After I received the first accusation, I felt really desperate because I have not done anything wrong, which is the feeling I would not wish to anyone. Eventually, I got used to this feeling. I must say that even outside of work, I spend a lot of time discussing many accusation-related issues with lawyers.

After a couple of days, I get back my drive and energy to fight the injustice and accusations I am facing. I have a dog, called Aiki. His character, as a mini-schnauzer, quite mirrors my personality.

I also enjoy playing golf to relax. Last but not least, I would like to mention a group of friends that have remained around me supporting me for more than three decades.

Very many companies nowadays support women in leadership positions to get more balanced teams that are known to perform better. How difficult has it been to be a woman in the men´s world of gas industry?

I definitely agree that everything was more difficult for me due to the fact that I was a woman.

There were only few women in gas industry and usually they were not often taken seriously. My technical background and expertise proved to be an advantage, since I could prove that I could join and contribute to a debate. However I could see several differences in my style: I did not join the rest of men either at soccer game or at the pub and I was very open in my communication.

The biggest problem that has quite shocked me was, nevertheless, the pay gap. Even in top company positions, my salary resembled the one of Cinderella in comparison to my male colleagues. And this is the major inequality and injustice, everything else up to women to fight and solve. My mentoring advice for women is to never give up. However, as studies show, when women are hard and persistent, they are often labelled as being hysterical or difficult. It is true that efficiency does not support women being liked.

You have been very active in supporting a lot of charity organisations, but you have been quite discreet about it which is another trend that is against the mainstream approach in the Czech Republic.

It is my belief that this should not be a topic of my discussions. My personal motto is that from the money I gain, one third of money should be enjoyed and spent, one third invested and one third given away. I have continuously supported a house for sight-impaired people in Opava since 1992; I also support charities for handicapped children engaged in hippotherapy, and I was the Chairwoman of Livia and Václav Klaus Foundation for two terms. I also have supported a charity for senior citizens since this is a group that is not being paid attention to. I believe that my life goal to leave a legacy is also reflected in charities I chose to support.

By Linda Štucbartová

CZECH&SLOVAK LEADERS I/2016

29

networking / charity

Lions Club Prague Bohemia Ambassador In

cooperation with

C zech

& S lovak L eaders

From left: Miroslav Hříbal, Entrepreneur, Ing. Antonín Novotný, CEO “CSI” and former President, LC Praha Bohemia Ambassador, Radek Lain, General Editor, Blesk, and Petr Laštovka, Entrepreneur

Guest of Honor:

Radek Lain, General Editor, Blesk Topic: Tabloid magazines in the Czech Republic

From left: PhDr. Ladislav Říha, Owner, CK RI-Tours and former President, LC Praha Bohemia Ambassador, Ing. Tomáš Jadrníček, Project Architect-Entrepreneur, and Jan Bulín, Professor, Deyl Academy

Radek Lain, General Editor, Blesk

From left: JUDr. PhDr. Oldřich Choděra, Lawyer, Charterpresident, LC Praha Bohemia Ambassador and former Governor, LCI D 122 Czech Republic and Slovak Republic and Ing. Aleš Haur, Entrepreneur

From left: Prof. RNDr. Petr Hodek CSc., Professor, Charles University Prague, Faculty of Science and Prof. MUDr. Václav Mandys CSc., Head of the Institute of Pathology, Prague Session of LC Praha Bohemia Ambassador

30

networking / charity

Guest of Honor:

Mrs. Gabriela Jirásková Topic: Modern high-fashion dressing for men

Lions Club Prague Bohemia Ambassador In

cooperation with

C zech

& S lovak L eaders

Mrs.Gabriela Jirásková, high-fashion house Style Forum

Mgr. Jan Haur, IS Administrator and President, LC Praha Bohemia Ambassador and Session of LC Praha Bohemia Ambassador

From left: Ing.Aleš Haur, Entrepreneur, Ing.Jiří Bříza CSc., and Ing.Jiří Málek,Entrepreneur and former President, LC Praha Bohemia Ambassador

From left: Doc. MUDr. Martin Mates, CSc., Cardiologist, Senior Doctor of Cardiocenter in Hospital Na Homolce and Mgr. Jaroslav Drápal, Analyst ČSOB

From left: Ing. Jiří Málek, Entrepreneur and former President, LC Praha Bohemia Ambassador and Prof. MUDr. Václav Mandys, CSc., Head of the Institute of Pathology,Praque

CZECH&SLOVAK LEADERS I/2016

31

An

interview with

P avel K rtek M.S c ., C hairman

of the

B oard

of

C zech R ailways , a . s .

We Want to Focus on Dear Mr. Krtek, it has been about two years since you became a Member of the Czech Railways Board and more than one year since you were elected its Chairman. How would you evaluate that period?

First of all, I would like to point out that Czech Railways is a joint-stock company and its management responsibilities are determined by this fact. Our task is to protect the interests of a stock holder, which is the state, interests of our customers, and at the same time interests of our creditors too. The net debt of Czech Railways Group amounts to approximately 33 billion Czech Crowns and our bonds are freely tradable.

In 2015, we took important steps towards effective company management. We approved our strategy, our fleet modernisation plan, and we are working on our maintenance. Our key areas are as follows: passenger transport, freight transport, and supporting services, like for example the above mentioned maintenance.

Unfortunately, we also inherited many problems of the past which have begun catching on us now.

None of them may put Czech Railways at serious risk, but it is necessary that the management is gradually solving individual issues one by one.

This, of course, is a long time process.

Which of these issues do you perceive as crucial?

A typical example can be inherited lawsuits and various real estate projects. Another case is a lost arbitration with Škoda Transportation. None of us signed the agreement for 20 engines, back then existing only on paper; however, we have to deal with the consequences.

This case is covered by the media, is on the agenda of the Ministry of Transport as well as the government. So, it is a top-priority problem. Is it possible that a payment of over one billion Czech Crowns according to the decision of the arbitration court may become fatal for Czech Railways?

Definitely not fatal, but it makes a difference if you can use a billion as an investment and buy new carriages or if you, for incomprehensible reasons, pay to a private entity which delivered the ordered engines several years later than agreed. Therefore, we filed a lawsuit and we want to invalidate the arbitration decision at court.

And did you have to pay?

32

Yes, we did pay, part of the money, the remaining part of the purchase price plus interest, within three days. If Škoda Transportation had a warrant of execution issued for us, it would have been another problem for our company. It would have put running our business and its reputation at risk, and we cannot afford this towards our creditors either. As I already mentioned, Czech Railways bonds are freely tradable. However, we will not pay an inflation increase, which makes about another 750 million. We have informed a supervisory board about our steps and we have agreed on this decision.

Did you discuss the issue with Škoda Transportation owners?

Our partner was always the management. I am not aware of the owner´s identity.

It means that also through you, the state gives enormous contracts to a company whose owner we don´t know. Do you find this correct?

It is not a question for me. I am a manager and I strictly follow current legislation. Anybody can enter our competitive tendering and if they pass the qualification and win with the lowest price, the contract belongs to them. As a state-owned entity we proceed according to law.

Companies from Škoda Transportation Group represent our traditional partners. It is also necessary to recognise that they give work to people in the Czech Republic, which is good. Therefore, we feel quite uncomfortable having such serious conflict with this supplier.

Nevertheless, we believe that the court will agree with us and will invalidate the arbitration decision. It is against common sense to tell Škoda the later you deliver the carriages the more money you can get.

At the end of the year you won another important court case, against one of your competitors, didn´t you?

Yes, we did. At the first instance court we won a case against Leo Express that insisted on our payment of over 418 million Czech Crowns for an alleged abuse of a dominant position on the Praha-Ostrava line. We did not commit anything like that and we are glad that the court confirmed that. Unfortunately, the whole issue has not finished yet because a similar case is being held against us also by the other private

CZECH&SLOVAK LEADERS I/2016

competitors. However, the court decision is exceptionally important. Private carriers were entering the lucrative Praha-Ostrava line, operated by us, and they supposed we would not behave as a commercial company and would move away. Once they discovered that we are fighting for customers, they started attacking us unscrupulously. We were trying to ignore all kinds of invectives for a long time, but when the media published that Leo Express´ owner describes our activities as criminal ones, we filed a suit and want an apology. We too are a commercial business and have our interests, customers, and creditors. We won´t let others insult us forever.

It might almost look like all your time was occupied by disputes with suppliers and competitors. Isn´t that tiring?

You are right; sometimes I have a feeling I am spending most of my time with lawyers. Cases are of course a burden, but it cannot put the company´s operations at risk. A very important task was to defend successfully our company rating in the investment band, which we achieved in spring 2015. We also issued bonds which in spring 2016 would re-finance some of the older, due bonds. On top of that, for this emission we gained really good conditions that would save us a considerable amount of funds.

Let me also mention the fact of keeping our passengers, who had to endure a great number of traffic closures due to the infrastructure repairs. All of this we were able to achieve thanks to effective management and primarily thanks to all our people´s hard work. Before Christmas we also signed a new collective agreement. With the unions we reached a reasonable compromise which ensures social security to our employees and reflects real possibilities of the company.

Social peace is very important for the stability of Czech Railways. We have also signed a collective agreement at Cargo which at the same time announces improvement of their economic results in the second half of the year.

Regularly, we can see articles about new carriages in Czech Railways colours. How much have you invested in them?

We are slowing the process of our fleet modernisation down a bit because we concentrate on gradual decrease of our

Pavel Krtek M.Sc. Chairman of the Board of Czech Railways, a.s.

He graduated from the French engineering university Ecole Centrale Paris (in 1994 as the first Czech since 1969). After a year of mandatory military service at the training base of Czech UNPROFOR in Český Krumlov, Mr. Krtek started working for a multinational company, Lafarge Cement, the world’s number two in cement production.

This was followed by nine years in Unipetrol, oil refining and petrochemical group, where he was also Member of the Board for six years.

He began in the headquarters as a Head of Financial Controlling; after three years he assumed the role of Financial Director of Railway Transport Division Unipetrol Doprava in Litvínov, then spent two years in the headquarters in Prague and later became Financial Director of Paramo Pardubice oil refinery. His career then continued in the field of investment funds. In February 2014, Mr. Krtek became a member of the Czech Railways board and on 1 March he took the position of Deputy General Manager of Czech Railways for Economy and Technology.

In November 2014, he was elected chairman of the national carrier and he holds the position of Chairman of the Board of Czech Railways.

Customers company indebtedness. Even though, this year we have purchased carriages worth billions of Czech Crowns. Thanks to that, higher comfort of travelling comes also to the lines where it has been awaited by passengers for a long time.

Let me mention for example: the line Brno – Břeclav – Olomouc where old fast trains are being replaced by new InterPanters. High quality carriages for long-distance transportation from the line between Praha and Brno have moved to the Praha – České Budějovice line, and so on. I think that if people evaluate the changes of several past years impartially, they will admit that our effort is visible. And don´t get upset with me, but this is not the two competitors on Praha – Ostrava line who can claim credit for that. After all, new, modernised carriages are working on the lines which are of no interest for these two. If we didn´t have a big state carrier here – Czech Railways, which provides global services all around our country, a systematical modernisation of carriages would have not definitely taken place in such a short time.

Does it mean you deny your competition credit for changes on Czech railroads?

No, definitely not. Competition is useful in every field. But when you realise whose investments into a modernisation of carriages and infrastructure are the highest, it definitely is the state’s. Either through our company or SŽDC. It is undeniable. Nevertheless, let´s be fair. Private competition motivates us, inspires us and does not let us rest. Which is good. On top of that, with them entering the market, also the state and its representatives realised that liberalisation of railways market is a challenge that must be taken seriously. That is evidenced by the ongoing preparation for creating an independent regulator and further legislation changes which after opening the market are necessary here.

And the market is opening all over Europe, which means anybody may come here.

Speaking about 2015, we cannot leave out significant events occurrences on our lines.

Have you learnt your lesson from them?

It is necessary to learn from every extraordinariness.

Black ice at the beginning of the year made us strengthen our traffic control and made the communication with SŽDC better, since their infrastructure was unusable due to black ice and thus our trains full of passengers remained standstill.

We also fine-tuned our information system and customer care in extraordinary cases across the board. The collision of a truck and Pendolino in Studénka showed how dangerous it is if you violate traffic regulations. I feel really sorry that to make drivers realise that railway crossing lights are not there for fun, our passengers had to die.

This incident undoubtedly also awoke SŽDC being responsible for infrastructure as well as the state authorities. Thanks to that the issue of increasing safety of railway crossings is much more discussed now. Can you as a carrier also take some steps with regard to that?

In this aspect our role is limited since we do not own either crossings or roads. Despite that, we take active part in the activities of the commission established by the Ministry of Transport, whose task is to find the most suitable way of improving safety of railway crossings.

Already in spring of 2015, Czech Railways Board of Directors approved the plan of purchasing two simulators where our train drivers would be preparing for similar extraordinary events. At the same time, we are working on public awareness.

Unfortunately, people are incorrigible. If drivers followed traffic regulations, nothing like this would ever have happened.

One of your Pendolinos was seriously damaged in the accident. However, you will repair it, won´t you?

Yes, we will, although the cost of repair is quite high. It will be over 200 million Czech Crowns.

Even so, it will be worth repairing the unit.

Pendolino belongs among the most popular trains of Czech Railways. It was the first train that brought comfort and speed never experienced on Czech railroads before. Every child knows what Pendolino is. It would be unfortunate to lose a unit that generates income and even after more than ten years of operation has no competition here.

Railjet is closing on, isn´t it?

Definitely. Thanks to railjets the number of passengers between Praha, Brno, and Vienna increased by tens of percent. By the way, the case of railjets is another one we won at court and a record high penalty of 25 million Czech Crowns was refunded to us, originally ordered by the antimonopoly office in connection with reconfiguration of these units.

It seems that on one hand 2015 brought a range of issues to Czech Railways; however, on the other hand a lot of successes too.

What is your vision of 2016?

What you read in the media is not always the true reflection of reality. We were really successful in many things. I believe, the upcoming year will turn even better. There will be fewer traffic closures and we will continue solving the problems created in the past. We take an active part in the preparations of legislative framework for railway market liberalisation in the segment of passenger transport and in the process of identifying the position of a national carrier. Here, I also expect a positive development. With ordering parties we are already in discussions about a model of public railway transport functioning after tenyear contracts terminate, i.e. after 2019, and I could go on and on. The important thing is to continue systematically, step by step, according to the strategy we have approved.

What is the goal?

To make Czech Railways an effective company with balanced economic activities that will be fully competitive in the open European market.

We want to focus on customers, keep service standards high, and constantly improve in all areas of our enterprise.

By Czech & Slovak Leaders české znění naleznete v elektronické verzi magazínu na www.czechleaders.com

33

Degustando gala evening

ItaliaN dinner at Le Palais Art Hotel Prague

From left: Roberto Di Cursi, Head of Italian desk, Mazars, Michaela Lejsková, Best of magazin Editor and PR Manager RHA, s.r.o., and Jana Ranieri, Secretary, Nowatron Publishing, s.r.o.

From left: David Červinka, Director, Quentessentially Czech, Michaela Lejsková, Best of magazin Editor and PR Manager RHA, s.r.o., Jana Chmelařová, Businesswoman in the area of finance and accounting, and Jana Ranieri, Secretary, Nowatron Publishing, s.r.o.

DJ Ravin, Buddha Bar Paris

H.E. Truong Manh Son, Ambassador of Vietnam with his wife Truong Manh Son

Alberto Gasso Capon, Owner, Pepe Nero Group with his partner

From left: Mrs. Liliya Gordeeva and Alisa Zhukova, Dorado Finance

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From left: H.E. Truong Manh Son, Ambassador of Vietnam with his wife, Ovidio Perra, Businessman, Maurizio Ricciardi, Ingenieur and Partner, Degustando Italia, Marco Perra, Owner of the Prague branch Degustando Italia, Roberto Di Cursi, Head of Italian desk, Mazars, Mr. Carlo Albaniase, and Alberto Gasso Capon, Owner, Pepe Nero Group

Nabuk, Producer, Composer and Pianist of Eros Ramazzotti

From left: Mr. Per Hanson and Mrs. Monika Tutterová

A nalysis

The koruna depreciation

an apt decision or a dead end street? with

The Bank Board of the Czech National Bank (CNB) decided to use the exchange rate as a monetary policy instrument, and therefore to commence foreign exchange interventions, in November 2013.

On this basis, the Board accomplished a depreciation of the exchange rate of Czech koruna, which had oscillated around CZK 25/EUR until then, not to “allow the koruna to appreciate to levels it would no longer be possible to interpret as ‘close to CZK 27/EUR’.”

The Bank Board explained this decision by insufficiency of the hitherto used main monetary policy instrument, gradually lowering interest rates to technical zero, to boost the Czech economy strongly hit by the global financial and economic crisis. Another supporting argument was a growing risk of deflation, as prices of many items in the consumer basket (especially consumer goods) had meanwhile been falling for some time and there was a danger that households and firms would have taken falling prices for granted and incorporate them into their expectations and wage setting.

The CNB has not deviated from this standpoint so far, as its latest statement of 16 December 2015 documents. It informs that “the Bank Board decided to continue using the exchange rate as an additional instrument for easing the monetary conditions and confirmed the CNB’s commitment to intervene on the foreign exchange market if needed to weaken the koruna so that the exchange rate of the koruna is kept close to CZK 27 to the euro.” At the same time, the Bank Board stated again that the likely timing of the discontinuation of the exchange rate commitment was around the end of 2016.

The historical decision of the CNB has evoked a vivid discussion among economists from the very beginning until now. The adamant position of the currency regulator represented by

Governor Miroslav Singer and the members of the Board has been supported by exporters, particularly from manufacturing industry. Those companies would welcome the Bank to hold weak koruna for a longer period. Also one of prominent economists, Jan Švejnar, recommended lately continued depreciation of Czech koruna, as he sees the risk of deflationary development still on the scene.

But the camp of opponents has also come with strong arguments. First of all, they, like Pavel Kohout, stressed the fact that the Bank had stuck too much to traditional models averting a deflation spiral, not having taken into account that the existing low inflation (not only a Czech, but also a global one) had been initiated mostly by lowering oil and natural gas prices. It would be also disputable whether the classical image of a consumer deferring purchases in expectation of even lower prices could hold in the recent Czech situation. Statistical data document that the existing upsurge of the Czech economic growth is driven from a significant part by domestic consumers’ demand that was delayed during a protracted crisis and can no longer be withheld.

The opponents also introduce a recent Swedish example. This smaller and open economy has experienced several external shocks since 2008 and also some deflationary development.

Notwithstanding that, the Swedish economy has enjoyed a steady growth rate since early 2014 in spite of (or thanks to?) a prevailing deflationary situation. They also stress the case that the Swiss National Bank had to abolish the limit for the exchange rate of the domestic currency in January 2015 due to the growth of costs keeping Swiss franc at a required level and to easing monetary policy of the European Central Bank.

A swift releasing of the franc exchange rate brought some initial turbulence but contributed Swiss competitiveness in the end. Therefore Mark Brütsch, Chief Economist of Swiss Life, a prominent financial company, recommends the same decision for Czech koruna.

The specific concerns of decreasing competitiveness and adverse structural shifts in the Czech economy are another theme of criticisms that have followed the koruna depreciation. This position is kept e.g. by Tomáš Munzi or Lukáš Kovanda. According

C zech

I n cooperation & S lovak L eaders

to them, the depreciation has created a „soft cushion” particularly for those export industries that have otherwise problems to retain their level of international competitiveness. On the contrary, high value-added industries relying on international cooperation are hit by more expensive inputs. This may result, in longer term, in deterioration of product structure of the Czech economy, literally in a “return to mounting shop”.

Statistics from the Czech Statistical Office might support this opinion in a way. E.g. while total Czech exports grew during January-October 2015 in comparison to the same period of 2013 by 21.6%, of which those of products of agriculture, hunting by 26.9% and of motor vehicles, trailers and semi-trailers by 39.9%, the exports of computer, electronic and optical products (which may stand for high value-added products) grew only by 18.4%. Nevertheless the period of comparison is too short to state this as a certain trend.

Another cloven hoof is hidden in the nature of such artificial decisions against market development.

They are someway like drug addiction: simple to enter but difficult to exit. A quick release of the exchange rate of koruna to a market clearing level might disequilibrate the koruna market with an adverse impact on the Czech economy, and CNB would have to use a considerable part of its reserves to prevent a too quick revaluation.

A gradual release of the exchange rate, more cautious and pre-announced, would in turn expose CNB to a risk of speculations and of testing announced deadlines.

The firm position of CNB as to setting the termination of interventions against koruna not earlier than end 2016 has brought so far a certain extent of assurance. It is now necessary to wait and see. Only after the koruna exchange rate returns to a natural and equilibrated level it will be possible to make a final account and assess whether the interventions of CNB brought more benefit or harm.

Emanuel Šíp Partner Allied Progress Consultants Association české znění naleznete v elektronické verzi magazínu na www.czechleaders.com

CZECH&SLOVAK LEADERS I/2016

35

A utumn G as C onference 2015

2nd annual panel discussion Autumn Gas Conference 2015 „CNG filling stations investors in the Czech Republic“ From left: Marek Zouvala, CEO, BENZINA, Hugo Kysilka, PR and Marketing Director, VEMEX, Jiří Lachout, Strategy Manager, CNG, E.ON Energie, Pavel Janeček, Chairman of the Board, Pražská plynárenská, Václav Holovčák, Vice Chairman of the Board, Bonett Gas Investment, Martin Herrmann, Chairman of the Board, CEO, RWE Česká republika, and Jan Světlík, Chariman of the Board and General Director, Vítkovice Holding

From left: Marek Zouvala, CEO, BENZINA, Hugo Kysilka, PR and Marketing Director, VEMEX, Pavel Janeček, Chairman of the Board, Pražská plynárenská, and Jan Světlík, Chariman of the Board and General Director, Vítkovice Holding

From left: Jan Světlík, Chariman of the Board and General Director, Vítkovice Holding, Václav Holovčák, Vice Chairman of the Board, Bonett Gas Investment, Jiří Lachout, Strategy Manager, CNG, E.ON Energie, and Martin Herrmann, Chairman of the Board, CEO, RWE Česká republika

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CZECH&SLOVAK LEADERS I/2016

Discussion was moderated by Jan Světlík, Chariman of the Board and General Director, Vítkovice Holding

Michal Ďorď Growing up in a children‘s home inspired 27-yearold Michal Ďorď and his friends to start Vteřina poté. The NGO aims to raise the standards of quality of care for vulnerable children living in these institutions as well as persuade the government to focus more on prevention of institutionalization.

Basically, Vteřina poté strives for a transformed and unified system of care for vulnerable children based on prevention of social exclusion of families at risk, family-based solutions for vulnerable children and high standards of quality of care for children in foster or residential care.

“Many of us felt unwanted, unloved, did not have any information about our background, our families or why we ended up in children’s homes,” says Ďorď who spent 17 years in the children‘s home Frýdlant, “Some of us even experienced harassment, deprecation, while others experienced almost family-like treatment.”

Soon after forming the organization, Ďorď learned that there we much deeper systematic issues that have to be addressed, including the fact that

founder of

Vteřina poté Olena Kagui was born in Ukraine but has spent most of her life in the Czech Republic. Olena graduated from Anglo American University in the summer of 2014 with a Bachelor of Arts in International Relations.

institutional care is prioritized to family-based solutions. Another issue is that the divided system of care is perpetuating social exclusion. The prevention programs only get 10% of the budget designated for vulnerable children, while insitutional care gets over 50% of the budget. Since it was founded in 2011, the organization has achieved several breakthroughs.

Along with the Ministry of Education, Vteřina poté co-created Standards of Quality of Care for Children in Institutional Care. This will improve the quality of care in all care facilities. They have revised evaluation tools that the Czech School Inspection uses for monitoring institutional care facilities: children homes as well as other types of institutions are de iure school facilities. After criticizing the Czech School Inspection for only monitoring children‘s homes once every 10 or 13 years, they hired 40 new school inspectors. Ďorď became the first person who had experienced institutional care to be named a member of the governmental Committee for the Rights of the Child.When asked for specific examples of schools and areas where their organization had made a difference, Ďorď says that there are way too many examples. “Our NGO is providing legal counseling to children whose rights were violated,” Ďorď explains, “but we also visit children’s homes where we provide children with information about their rights, things they should consider before leaving care or information about ways of getting funding for their education.”

Recently, the organization helped a girl from a children‘s home in Silesia. Thanks to information that they provided her with, she is now an university student. In her children‘s home they have also started to build bridges

between the children and the staff. By facilitating discussions about the issues both of these groups have with each other, they can brainstorm solutions and improve how things work within the institution.”We have secured funds which will allow us to do more such programs and training exercises in 2016,” says Ďorď.

“We‘ve got a lot of positive feedback from the Minister of Labor and Social Affairs, Michaela Marksová who closely cooperates with us,” says Ďorď. Marksová cooperates closely with Vteřina poté, Education and Justice ministries, government officials, experts and NGOs to help institutionalized children as well as training foster parents. “We also get negative feedback from some directors of children‘s homes and a few parliamentary members who are against the reforms we promote,” explains Ďorď.

The organization has had other setbacks. They had attempted to convince the Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs, Ministry of Education and Ministry of Health to cooperate on reform that could unify the system under one ministry.

This would also change the way that money is distributed for the advantage of preventive services for families. This failed for may reasons according to Ďorď, including the appointment of a new Minister of Education, a controversial new School Act was passed and several other complications. However they are working with Marksová who would like to make the reform.

When I asked Ďorď where he sees Vteřina poté in 5 years, he answered, “in advisory and working groups of ministries that deal with children‘s rights. I would like Vteřina to be an organization that comes first to mind to governmental and non-governmental organizations when vulnerable children‘s rights are concerned“ .

Besides children‘s issues, Ďorď is passionate about integration of marginalized groups, especially on housing and job markets and in education.

His own family was a victim of discrimination in education and that significantly contributed to their socioeconomic standing which was used as a reason to separate the family and to put him into a children’s home. Besides that, Ďorď has been increasingly interested in system of care for unaccompanied minors who sometimes end up in correctional facilities for young criminals, where they do not belong.

By Olena Kagui P hoto : A rchive

G ala E vening

In

P hoto : M iguel A lonso

cooperation

with

C zech & S lovak L eaders

NEW YEAR’S PARTY

Fashion presentation

by Delor International

From left: Christian Blatchford, Counsel, Kocián Šolc Balaštík, Jitka Beye, Business Development Director Europe, Therme Laa & Tauern Spa Kaprun, and Radovan Bernard, Partner, Bernard Legal

The Canadian Chamber of Commerce in the Czech Republic opened its 2016 events program with a New Year’s Party on 21 January 2016. Hotel Savoy Prague that underwent an extensive renovation in 2015 provided a most pleasant ambience for this informal gathering that was attended by long-standing members and guests of the Chamber as well as new friends. LESA and Pivovary Staropramen were acknowledged as partners of the event.

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From left: Pavel & Anne Hlinka, AHP Connections, Mrs. Jiřina Říhová, and Tomáš Říha, Deputy Director, STEM/MARK & Board Director, Canadian Chamber of Commerce

From left: Mrs. Victoria Kharchenko, Renata Kašická, Senior Consultant, and Jaroslav Kašický, Managing Director, Delor International

From left: Dominique L”Ecuyer, Office Manager, Hrubý & Buchvaldek, Pietro Andrea Podda, Lecturer, Anglo-American University, and Marek Hencl, Managing Director, AARTKOM

Welcome Drink in the Hotel Bar

CZECH&SLOVAK LEADERS I/2016

G ala E vening

Beer Bar provided by Pivovary Staropramen, a Molson Coors Company

Henri Proulx, Commercial Counsellor, Embassy of Canada and Alice Štunda, Owner, Sunny Canadian International School & Board Director, Canadian Chamber of Commerce

From left: Jo Weaver, Managing Director, JWA Prague & Board Director, International Business Forum and Alexandra Brabcová, Executive Director, Canadian Chamber of Commerce

Ron Stiles, Director, and Jitka Stiles, Principal, Sunny Canadian International School

From left: Mrs. Victoria Kharchenko, Henri Proulx, Commercial Counsellor, Embassy of Canada, and Lars Klett, Partner, UEPA Attornies at Law

Thomas Hrubý, Partner, Hrubý & Buchvaldek & Senior Vice President, Canadian Chamber of Commerce

From left: Tomáš Hajdu, Owner, PrimaBuilding and Jiří Krejča, President, Canadian Chamber of Commerce

Alicja Huziuk-Raith, General Manager, Hotel Savoy Prague and Jiří Krejča, President, Canadian Chamber of Commerce

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From left: Marek Hencl, Managing Director, AARTKOM, Libor Chytrý, Director Operations Czech Republic, MAGNA Seating, and Peter P. Formánek, President Emeritus, Canadian Chamber of Commerce

From left: Mrs. Romana Chytrá and Mrs. Lucie Krejčová

Dinner at Hradčany Restaurant Eliška Hašková Coolidge, Lecturer Jiřina Korolusová, Programme Coordinator, Kelly & Associates

From left: Jan Grozdanovič, Managing Partner, JGA Legal, Peter P. Formánek, President Emeritus, and Jiří Krejča, President, Canadian Chamber of Commerce

40

CZECH&SLOVAK LEADERS I/2016

From left: Mr. Thomas Walther, Pavlína Rieselová, Managing Director, Ewing Public Relations, Matthew Duras, Owner, Johnny Servis & Board Director, Canadian Chamber of Commerce, and MDDr. Benjamin Rakušan, Rakušan Dental

K nowledge

Is knowledge still power? things happen. Knowledge may not be even defined by what it is anymore, but what it can do.

P hoto : A rchive

Or, did it use to be power back when it was not easily available and disseminated? My recent participation in a training course focusing on managing team effectiveness made me ponder on whether the objective to learn, to get empowered by knowledge, still holds true nowadays when knowledge is not something belonging to the privileged only.

In the current times of widespread, inexpensive communications, knowledge travels way too fast for it to hold power for long. So perhaps there is no need to try to cram tonnes of it into our heads on the assumption it will make us special, is there?

I recently came across findings claiming that during the last century we moved from the Industrial Age through the Information Age to the Knowledge Age. The ability to obtain, absorb and apply the right knowledge effectively will become a key skill in the next century. Our capability will no longer be judged solely by qualifications gained in the past, but will also be assessed by our capacity to learn and adapt in the future.

When thinking about the Knowledge Age, the meaning of ‘knowledge’ may be changing as well. It does not seem to be thought of as ‘stuff’ developed (and stored) in the minds of experts, included in books, and classified into disciplines. It rather resembles a system of networks and flows – something that makes

In

cooperation with

To me, knowledge, and education for that matter, is extremely valuable; perhaps partially due to the fact that I was denied higher education for years during the Communist regime and in fact, even denied meaningful knowledge for years as some of my mandatory learning reflected the distorted Communist reality. Learning is important for individuals as well as organisations. However, I do not consider learning to be just about economic success. It is the key to achieving our full potential. Human beings are uniquely adapted to learn and we have the ability to do so throughout our lives. Learning has the power to transform us. It works on all fronts – we can become more successful at home with our families, at work with our colleagues and in our local communities.

And back to my question – is knowledge still power? If you lived in the 1600s and wanted to be a mason, for example, you would start off as a master’s apprentice. Instead of paying you, he would teach you his trade because he had the knowledge you could not get anywhere else. He had power. You? Not so much.

I believe knowledge still has power but nowadays sharing knowledge is more powerful.

Rather than trying to hoard something that can be acquired, sharing knowledge can have a bigger impact. Two people will collectively know more than one. Three will know more than two. And when you have a room full of smart people, there’s very little you cannot accomplish together.

There is a vast amount of knowledge and skills in organisations but they will not make the full impact if used in silos. In fact, lack of sharing may hinder progress and result in vast inefficiencies. Therefore, many businesses have recognised that the power of collaboration and knowledge sharing can make them much stronger and help them fulfil their true potential. My company, a very large and geographically dispersed business, has also been on a journey towards collaboration; however, changing a company culture from ‘what you know’ to ‘what you share’ can take very long.

C zech & S lovak L eaders

Ultimately, we need to realise it is we who have the power to make the most of all the information and resources we know or have easy access to and use it all to make a difference, on a private as well as professional front.

Knowledge simply doesn’t become effective and powerful until people decide to act on it. In the age of information, ignorance is indeed a choice and, however comfortable, it is disempowering and not conducive to progress.

Who said knowledge is power?

Although the term is attributed to philosopher Sir Francis Bacon during the Enlightenment four centuries ago, the first documented occurrence of this phrase comes apparently from Imam Ali (599–661) and is included in the book Nahj Al-Balagha as follows: “Knowledge is power and it can command obedience. A man of knowledge during his lifetime can make people obey and follow him and he is praised and venerated after his death. Remember that knowledge is a ruler and wealth is its subject.” – Saying 146.

By Tereza Urbánková

české znění naleznete v elektronické verzi magazínu na www.czechleaders.com

Tereza Urbánková is a PR, communications and marketing professional with over 15 years’ experience and proven success in industries such as hospitality, retail, IT, defence, broadcast, logistics and engineering. For the past nine years she has been working and living in London, UK; currently, she is Head of Global Communications for Amec Foster Wheeler plc, a large international engineering consultancy. Tereza also works as a freelance consultant in the area of communications and PR. In 2015, she became a member of the Executive Committee of the Czech British Chamber of Commerce in the UK. She speaks Czech, English, Spanish and Russian and can be reached on terezaurbankova@yahoo. com or through her LinkedIn profile.

A special personal interview with Hynek Kmoníček, Director of the International Department at the Office of the President of the Czech Republic, done by his wife, Indira Gumarova, on the media, patriotism, cooking skills, peace in the Middle East and so much more…

“If I were Angelina Jolie, I would make a movie based on his character. I learn something from him every day,” says Indira Gumarova, photographer and media advisor, who observed Dr. Hynek Kmoniček’s life far closer than anybody else (as his wife, in particular) and interviewed him for The Czech & Slovak Leaders Magazine.

An interview with Hynek Kmoníček, Director of the International Department at the Office of the President of the Czech Republic P hoto : J iří T urek

Smiling is just

an automatic reaction What book are you reading right now?

The End of Suffering, by Pankaj Mishra. I sometimes think I must be just the second person to finish reading this book after the author himself, and neither of us got it fully. An overcomplicated book on current India and historical development of Buddhism there and in the West.

What’s the last movie you saw in the movie theatre?

Movie theatres are history. I watch movies on my PC. The last one I saw in the real theatre was the Pakistani movie Khuda Ke Liye, a surprisingly well-done story of an arranged forced marriage and clash with fundamentalist Islam.

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So the last movie you saw online?

It was a documentary about Welsh communities in Patagonia.

Do you watch any Czech TV shows?

Castle bodyguards made me aware of the TV crime drama called Atentat, loosely based on the Office of the Czech President. A crazy but funny story, especially if you know the real characters pictured there.

Is there a character in that show that plays you?

Not yet, but I wonder as what I would be pictured if ever I was an inspiration for a character.

CZECH&SLOVAK LEADERS I/2016

As a semi-professional chef, what did you make for dinner last night?

Szegedin goulash spiced with Costa Rican chili.

No dumplings. Crossover cuisine made with classic ingredients. Take Central Europe and turn it into Central America.

You give your interviews with a smile and some people think that you are one of those who loves to hear himself talk. What do you intend to achieve with smiling?

I am so focused when on camera that I do not follow every gesture of mine. Quite often a smile is just the automatic reaction and confirmation that I used to be an introvert.

H ynek K moníček , A dvisor

to the

P resident

Hynek Kmoníček I found that sometimes the Czech media are not patriotic. There were so many historical and important events in the country, but they cover only what is negative or controversial. In your opinion, what are some great historical moments of the Czech Republic?

I totally agree. We somehow seem to be genetically negativistic. The result is that even the current engagement we have in Syria will definitely be a footnote in textbooks of diplomacy, but I guess it will not be a Czech textbook. Exactly as it happened a few years ago when our engagement helped end the civil war in Sri Lanka.

Over the years, key people from different governments all over the world have sought your opinion on solutions of current problems: for example, Israel/ Palestine; or ISIS; what is your vision of peace in the Middle East?

Realistic. Peace is the time between wars. And we must do everything possible to prolong these periods.

The media love to cover you. Any conspiracy theory about you that you find most entertaining?

These theories are somehow too unintelligent to be entertaining. If I follow conspirators’ logic, then I would probably have to be Israeli Mossad, Russian FSB and Pakistani by now and all at the same time.

Do you get upset when the country makes diplomatic faux pas? What makes you upset?

When I watch something going wrong in front of my eyes without a chance to do something with it on the spot.

For example?

For example, when we closed the embassy in Kenya as part of austerity measures just to reopen it two years later. You lose money to get where you have already been. And then doing the very same in Colombia. Simply things like that.

It is a known fact that you collect hot sauces but do you know the actual number of them? Have you ever counted them?

Never. My best guess would be between one and two hundreds little bottles. But I suspect you ask me about that to learn if I have a way of finding out how many of them you have already consumed. If I am the collector, you are the chili eater.

I took pictures of the most remote places where journalists tried to find you. Any particular place that journalists got you, but I wasn’t around with the camera?

Naturally, a bathroom. You don’t know about this but some years ago I flushed down my cell phone when an unexpected phone call surprised me there.

By Indira Gumarova

is a Czech career diplomat and one of the most prominent political voices of the Czech Republic, currently serving as a Foreign Policy Advisor to the President of the Czech Republic, and as Director of the International Department at the Office of the President. He started his diplomatic career in 1995 as a desk officer at the Middle East Department of the Czech Foreign Ministry. Since then, he served as the Permanent Representative to the United Nations and held roles of the Czech Ambassador in India, Australia and other countries. Graduated from South Bohemian University, with majors in classical guitar and pedagogy, he later earned a degree in English language studies from Charles University.

Hynek Kmoníček also holds a degree in classical Arabic studies from Charles University and finished his studies at the postgraduate programme of modern history of the Middle East at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem.

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E vent In

cooperation with

C zech & S lovak L eaders

Bohuslav Martinů Philharmonic Orchestra

Hilton Christmas Charity Concert

On Sunday, December 20, Hilton Prague and Hilton Prague Old Town organized the 19th annual Christmas Charity Concert to support Tereza Maxová Dětem Foundation. Michael Specking, cluster general manager of both Hilton Hotels in Prague, was happy to hand over a cheque in the value of 50,000 Czech Crowns to the Foundation director Terezie Sverdlinová.

Bohuslav Martinů Philharmonic Orchestra from Zlín headed by the Indian conductor Mr. Debashish Chaudhuri, featuring a guest soloist Eva Blažková, brought the festive spirit to life.

As every year, the International Ladies’ Choir Viva Voce conducted by Soňa Frýdlová delighted the audience by traditional Christmas carols. Michael Specking, cluster general manager of Hilton Prague and Hilton Prague Old Town together with Gabriela Kratochvílová, TV presenter and Czech Miss 2013, moderated the evening. A fun part was not missing either, when Michael Specking, Gabriela Kratochvílová and Hilton Prague Executive Chef performed the famous Plink Plank Plunk by Leroy Anderson using kitchen utensils.

After the concert, guests enjoyed festive Christmas buffet dinner in the magnificent atrium lobby accompanied by piano music.

Eva Blažková, Soloist and Debashish Chaudhuri, Conductor

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CZECH&SLOVAK LEADERS I/2016

International Ladies’ Choir Viva Voce

E vent

From left: Filip Eisenreich, Managing Director, Lloyd Coils Europe & Janka Engineering with his wife, Robert Inneman, Sales Director, Janka Engineering, RNDr. Antonín Korenčík, Director and Owner, Gesto Computers, Ms. Dominika Korenčíková, Magda Bušková, Finance Director, Claudia Specking, Terezie Sverdlinová, Director, Tereza Maxová Dětem Foundation, Gabriela Kratochvílová, Presenter, H.E. Charles Sheehan, Ambassador of Ireland with his wife, and Michael Specking, Cluster General Manager, Hilton Prague & Hilton Prague Old Town

Franco Luise, Executive Chef, Hilton Prague

Gabriela Kratochvílová, Presenter and Michael Specking, Cluster General Manager, Hilton Prague & Hilton Prague Old Town

Debashish Chaudhuri, Conductor and Bohuslav Martinů Philharmonic Orchestra

From left: Jeon Keunseok, Minister-Counsellor and Deputy Head of Mission, Embassy of the Republic of Korea with his wife Soo Joo Bae, and Claudia Specking and Michael Specking, Cluster General Manager, Hilton Prague & Hilton Prague Old Town

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Reception

International Ladies’ Choir Viva Voce

From left: Terezie Sverdlinová, Director, Tereza Maxová Dětem Foundation, Markéta Šebková, Marketing & PR Manager, Hilton Prague & Hilton Prague Old Town, and Gabriela Kratochvílová, Presenter

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CZECH&SLOVAK LEADERS I/2016

From left: RNDr. Antonín Korenčík, Director and Owner, Gesto Computers, Ms. Dominika Korenčíková, Magda Bušková, Finance Director, Michael Specking, Cluster General Manager, Hilton Prague & Hilton Prague Old Town and Claudia Specking, Terezie Sverdlinová, Director, Tereza Maxová Dětem Foundation, Gabriela Kratochvílová, Presenter, and H.E. Charles Sheehan, Ambassador of Ireland

Soo Joo Bae, International Ladies’ Choir Viva Voce

H.E. Mr. Charles Sheehan, Ambassador of Ireland

M edia P ower

The Challenge for 2016:

Truthful Communications

Looking back at the year we leave behind, it can be said that 2015 made it clear once again that people plan and Gods laugh.

In order to face the challenges ahead of us, we need a different paradigm for leadership and strategic communications.

To achieve it, we need to bring truthfulness back where it belongs: at the very core of our thoughts, speech and actions.

Reading the Economist outlook for 2016 I cannot stop noticing how very few things we were able to predict a year ago that have essentially influenced our lives this year. From the migrant crisis in Europe to the mighty economic growth in the Czech Republic, richly fueled by the lastminute withdrawal of EU funds, and to the insidious fear and irrational response of people we thought we knew in reaction to the terrorist attacks in Paris and across the world, we were (yet again) naïve to hope we finally understood our world. As always, life found a way to show us that our logical systems of measurement and prediction are, simply, insufficient when faced with a dynamic, multifaceted reality.

The question that gives many leaders a shiver is therefore: if we can’t rely on the systems we thought we understood, how can we continue doing what we do? How can we lead our organisations, institutions and lives, when there are so few certainties around us?

The answer to this question that I have been exploring for the past few years in communications and leadership is relatively simple: by letting go. In my experience, it is only when we become able to let go of our Cristina Muntean is a professional communications advisor, media trainer and coach. She has more than 12 years’ experience in the Czech, Romanian and international media. In August 2010 Cristina founded Media Education CEE, a Praguebased premium PR advisory and training agency. Her clients are top managers with Top100 companies in the Czech Republic and CEE, diplomats and public officials who aim to make their voice heard in their communities. In June 2011 Cristina was elected to lead the Czech PR Klub for a one-year term. In December 2014 she was elected chairwoman of the Marketing Committee of the American Chamber of Commerce in Prague for a twoyear term. Cristina speaks Romanian, French, English and Czech and can be reached at cm@mediaed.cz.

In

cooperation with

and communicate it with your stakeholders timely, openly and responsibly is the way to make a genuine difference as an individual and organisation today.

Not so long ago I was stunned to see a headline claiming that “emotions don’t belong into the business sphere.” I dare argue the contrary. If we want to be able to move on, we must open up to exploring new paths in leadership and communications. Some of these paths are:

• Emotional intelligence. Know thyself is

a timeless invitation. It is only when you know and understand yourself and when you become able to calibrate your behaviour according to circumstances that you can gain genuine self-confidence and achieve your goals.

• Intuition. For the last centuries our world (illusory) certainties and fierce reliance on a predictable, measurable future that we can make room for something else. It is only when we stop identifying our sense of self-worth with the percentage of growth we achieved last year when we can take genuine distance and consider things in perspective. It is only when we learn to accept that the dictatorship of growth has an alternative – a healthier, more sustainable, cyclical, individual, economic life – that we can experience freedom. And it is only when we take personal responsibility for what is truly ours that we can start seeing our hidden resources and be able to take the next step.

Yes, but how do we do that? What I’ve learnt for the last five years, since strategic communications for leadership has become the focus of my activity, is that trust is the most expensive and yet most volatile currency today.

It is your ability to inspire trust that gets you into a new corporate or political leadership position.

It is your ability to trigger trust that keeps your people honest and engaged, and keeps fluctuation within your organisation at bay. It is your ability to cultivate trust that will keep your customers flying away when a cheaper alternative pops up in the market. It is trust that will shield your organisation better than any other insulating coat when a new crisis arrives.

There is only one trick to achieving trust.

You can’t do that unless you are consistent in your words and deeds. And you cannot be consistent unless you’re truthful – and open – about what is really going on. There has been so much sugar-coating in communications that people are sick of it. Daring to look at what is

C zech & S lovak L eaders

has been dominated by logical, measurable systems. We have completely forgotten about our second leg, intuition, the ability to trust our instincts in order to move forward.

We need to rediscover our intuition and learn to trust it also when it comes to major resolutions.

• Openness. We can struggle as much as we

want to with accepting or not accepting migrants in the Czech Republic. Alea iacta est or the die is cast and people are moving across the world may we like it or not. The question remains: are we able to turn this new reality into an opportunity, or are we going to consume ourselves from within with rage, fear and longing for a world as we want it to be, as opposed to building strategies for dealing with the world as it is?

It is my firm belief that leadership that lasts is fueled by conscious communication. And it is my hope that, out of the uncertainties and incomprehensible, unpredictable crises of today, a new leadership paradigm will emerge. One free of the dictatorship of growth by all means and solidly anchored in truthfulness. And hopefully, conscious, strategic communications will be there to assist leaders along the way. For our own sake.

By Cristina Muntean české znění naleznete v elektronické verzi magazínu na www.czechleaders.com

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An interview with Lukáš Répal, Manager of Operations and FM at The Dubai Mall young Czech success abroad Lukáš has more than 9 years of multidisciplined managerial experience in residential and commercial real estate including asset, property and facility management, development, brokerage, acquisitions and investments. Lukáš obtained his Master’s Degree in Business and Law at the University of Economics in Prague. Since then, he has held several roles in real estate companies in Prague, successfully managing property portfolios and leading various teams.

Since 2013, Lukáš has been living and working in Dubai, UAE; currently, he works as Manager of Operations and FM at The Dubai Mall.

Life Is Like a Boomerang 48

CZECH&SLOVAK LEADERS I/2016

How did you begin your career in real estate?

While I was studying business and law at the University of Economics in Prague, I was looking for a part-time job to get some practical work experience and make my study time more productive. I started working in a law firm where I was providing admin support as well as other assistance to the team.

I was approached by one of our clients who was running a Real Estate Company offering me to join his team. I was always passionate about real estate and with my specialty at the university, I saw this as a good opportunity for me.

What was your first job like?

I started my career in real estate as a sales and leasing broker. At the time, the introduction to the property world was given to me by my manager, who is my dearest friend today, and who found out very shortly after I joined his company that I was capable of more and willing to work hard.

I completed my first large investment transaction in 2007 to a foreign investor who then asked me to manage the property after the purchase. A few months later, I was recommended to manage more properties within the same building and by the end of the year, I was managing the whole complex.

I extended my portfolio of properties and two years later, I was approached by an international USbased property management company, and asked to look after their portfolio of properties. There I provided both property and facility management services. As a result of being successful in this role, a year later I was promoted to head of property management services, where I supervised a team of managers looking after various properties across the Czech Republic.

Who was your mentor while growing up?

When growing up, my parents influenced me the most. As a child I was taught that you get only what you really need, but if you want something more or better you have to do something to get it. And when I turned 15, I started working in my dad’s grocery store. At this stage of life we don’t usually realize what is their intention to be so “difficult”, but looking back, this was what made me who I am today. I am very lucky to have such a great family who has been supporting me in every step of my life.

What triggered your interest in this industry?

When I was at the high school, I was preparing myself to go to a medical school afterwards, as I wanted to become a dentist. Last year at the high school I was attending weekend courses for premed students. That year helped me realize that this is not the right field for me and that I am more business oriented rather than medical or scientific.

Real estate and property management itself is a very interesting industry as you’re working with people, which I really enjoy. Commercial or residential, it really doesn’t matter, it is still just a building which in our business we are making alive and that is what I like doing. Making sure that the old or new building will be here for decades and people will be enjoying working and living there.

What made you decide to move to the Middle East and specifically to Dubai?

Having acquired my experience in the Czech Republic, one day I woke up and decided to try a life abroad and gain more experience in real estate. I didn’t have any preference where to move but I knew that I don’t want to move anywhere in Europe. I wanted to go somewhere further but at

the same time, I didn’t feel like moving too far, for example to the Far East, so staying in the middle (Middle East) was the right option. I always heard about Dubai - how fascinating the city is, etc., and had a chance to visit Dubai in 2010. During that visit, when I was standing by the dancing fountain next to The Dubai Mall, I told myself, ”One day I want to live here”. And a few years later I am actually managing the Mall itself. Through my life I was always saying: “Everything is possible” and yes, there are certain circumstances but if we approach them from the right side or angle, things will move the way we want. I was directly recruited by Emaar for the position of Property Manager to manage their biggest residential community – a small city, actually – with its 10,000 villas and other retail areas on 11.5 million square meters, which is called the green city – Emirates Living. While I was going through the rounds of interviews, I was finding out more information about the role and the property, which I was supposed to manage, and I wanted this role more and more. Within 2 years I was approached by the Emaar Malls Group management with the offer to manage their flagship between their malls and I have gladly accepted this new challenge.

How challenging is it to handle the Operations & FM in such a property like The Dubai Mall with operations 24/7/365?

In my role I manage the teams who look after dayto-day operations and FM services, and who make sure the mall, which is open 365 days a year, most of the time 16 hours a day, is always up to the highest standards. The total area of The Dubai Mall is 1.5 million square meters, which is a challenge itself. However, the main challenge here is the time – we have a very short time to ensure everything is maintained up to the very high quality, for which Emaar is well know of, but if you organize things properly, it is manageable. I am generally a wellorganized person, which is crucial for this type of business. The other factor is human resources. You must be able to rely on people otherwise you’ll fail.

I always work on the assumption that people will want to work for you and not that they have to or are forced to – that makes a difference every time.

It is challenging to work in the Middle East where you deal with people from all over the world but in the end we are all humans and we need to find a way to cooperate. During holidays and events we have up to 600,000 visitors every day, which would be over half of Prague’s population coming to shop and entertain themselves, so these days are quite challenging.

What was the most challenging situation you have faced professionally?

I believe it has been the move to Dubai. Moving to an unknown place and completely different culture has been very challenging for me, but I have to say that it didn’t take me long to get used to it. Life is one big learning process we are going through, from the day 1 till the end, and that is what makes it interesting. Specifically in a professional life; I can’t say I have been in difficult or challenging situations – if everything is well planned, challenges are eliminated.

What has been the highlight of your career so far?

I am never afraid to work; I always set my goals high and choose the more difficult path just to make myself a stronger and better person. I consider

my main success in my career that I have proved myself in less than 2 years working for Emaar and have been selected as manager for The Dubai Mall.

Managing a mall with 80 million visitors a year is like managing a small country, which is something I’m very proud of being able to accomplish.

As a leader, do you ever have bad days on the job? And how do you handle them?

Of course, I don’t think there is anyone who doesn’t have bad days, but it all depends on how well you can manage yourself. Even if I have the worst day, I never let anyone in my work life feel it. I usually go and look at our dancing fountain and those 5 minutes help me calm down. When I am about to say something, I count to 10 to process it one more time and this has been a very helpful tool which saved me from unpleasant situations quite a few times.

If you weren’t working in this field, where would you be?

I don’t like to say “I do not know”, so I am always learning something new as I always like to be broad-minded. This is a very difficult question since I am very happy in this field and at this point in time I can’t imagine working anywhere else. However, if I have to have an answer, I would be an entrepreneur in various businesses, just like my father.

Do you get enough “me” time?

Well, working in a 24/7 environment in the busiest mall in the world doesn’t give you much “me” time but every free time I have I enjoy as much as I can.

I love travelling and exploring new places, and I like to do some sports, so for me it is the active relaxation when I actually relax the most.

Would you have any advice for beginners who are just starting their career?

Hold on to your dreams and don’t forget that life is like a boomerang: you throw it out and it will come back to you, and most of the time when you least expect it.

By Czech & Slovak Leaders české znění naleznete v elektronické verzi magazínu na www.czechleaders.com

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G lobal P erspective

Charisma Charisma is the unique property of someone who possesses a personal charm and is irresistibly attractive to others. Such an individual has highly developed communication and persuasion skills that he or she uses to influence and excite other people. Charisma increases a person’s attractiveness.

But careful – it is not necessarily true vice versa. You can meet somebody who is obviously attractive at first sight but who does not turn out to have the charisma you would expect.

According to British psychologist Richard J. Wisemann, a charismatic person tends to be highly attuned to the emotions of others and has an extraordinary ability to awaken emotions in them. At the same time, he is able to keep his own emotions in check and is resistant to the influence of other people, their negative attitudes and ideas.

People often think that there is a direct correlation between charisma and the highest attained level of education. Let’s take two global leaders as an example. On the one hand, there is U.S. President Barack Obama who studied at several prestigious universities including Harvard. On the other hand, look at someone like former Brazilian President Lula da Silva who left elementary school after only four years to become a breadwinner at the age of 12.

Both politicians are intensely charismatic despite their vastly different academic backgrounds. There is no correlation here. The same can be said of the effect of the environment one grows up in. It makes no difference whether you come from a royal family or a socially excluded neighbourhood.

What are the advantages of charisma? Picture a charismatic individual in your mind. This person is most probably at ease with public appearances and speaking in front of people, is able to influence, motivate and inspire others and efficiently communicates his own visions. Most of us will instinctively think of famous and successful women and men who are well-known for their artistic, athletic, political and business achievements.

Studies have shown that charismatic people work on better projects and get paid more for their work.

This only serves to make them more self-confident and wins them even greater respect among their peers.

A successful person’s charisma multiplies his or her attractiveness, which may sometimes turn into a downright fascination. Just look at some artists or the most successful entrepreneurs. When they enter a room, everybody is immediately aware that

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they are there and they are able to captivate all those who are present in a blink of an eye.

I would even argue that charismatic people lead happier lives but not simply thanks to the advantages I have already mentioned. They are happier primarily because of their positive outlook and their ability to enjoy even the smallest details.

On the road to success, however, charisma cannot compensate for a lack of intelligence or hard work, which are, in my mind, the cornerstones that charisma can build on, adding a certain aura of personality that makes things a bit easier and smoother.

Whenever I talk to people about charisma I tend to hear the same questions over and over again. Everybody wants to know if charisma is something you are born with or if you can learn to be charismatic. Another typical question is whether there is some connection to the way the charismatic person looks. This is true, to a certain degree. A pleasant and attractive face can do a lot and make people pay attention to you but what about an actor like Jean-Paul Belmondo. Nobody would question his charisma although his “beauty” may be subject to debate.

Don’t get me wrong, though – a charismatic person is not always a good person. There are way too many charismatic crooks who cause terrible harm to their victims. Let’s be very clear that there is positive and negative charisma. If we want to take it to the extreme, we could say that both Stalin and Hitler possessed great charisma but used it for negative ends.

Although each one of us will occasionally get into a situation where we will tend to agree with a charismatic person, it does not mean that we should easily fall under the spell of this person’s words and looks. What about the effect of clothing?

I would say that it acts in a way similar to attractive looks. Interesting and appropriate attire can help, but it not required.

At the top of the chart of the most frequent questions is the trickiest issue. Can an introvert be charismatic? Take a look at several global leaders: Ghandi, Bill Gates and Steve Jobs. All three were exceptionally charismatic while being at the same time very introvert. I think there is really just one point of difference between an introvert and an extrovert. When I, an extrovert, get off the stage after giving a speech I feel full of energy. An introvert, on the other hand, will feel exhausted. The reason is

CZECH&SLOVAK LEADERS I/2016

that an introvert runs on his own internal battery while I get recharged by the simple fact that I stand in front of an audience. This does not mean that one personality trait is good and the other bad per se.

It is simply about how each manages his internal energy. So yes, an introvert can be charismatic.

He just needs to practice more before getting on the stage so that he has more scope for using his energy efficiently.

Let’s dive deeper into our topic to get a true understanding of what it takes to be charismatic.

Charisma is most often expressed and perceived through a person body language. This is partly due to the historical evolution of the way humans communicate where speech and language come into play at a relatively late stage of humanity’s experience. Before that, our ancestors spent a much longer period of time communicating through facial expressions, gestures and postures. Speech is responsible for a mere 7% of efficient human communication and the remaining 93% depends on body language. It is important to keep in mind in this context that our mental and emotional state directly influences our body language. But it also works the other way. Sit up straight and you will immediately feel stronger. These are communicating vessels that often reveal more about ourselves than we would like.

What are the components of charisma? Imagine a triangle that has power, presence and warmth at its corners. In the centre of this figure, we have authenticity that can be achieved only by people who make use of their strengths, talents and firmly anchored personal values.

Only truly authentic people can aspire to be charismatic. Authenticity can be feigned but not forever. It is a trick sometimes used by actors.

Some roles and situations are very difficult to just imagine for longer periods of time. What actors do is that they fully immerse themselves in their roles, experiencing something akin to the placebo effect known to medicine. You no longer pretend to be what you are not, you really live the experience. In English this is known as method acting.

Look at the vertices of our charisma triangle. At the first tip, we have presence. I realised the power of a person’s presence when I had the opportunity to meet global leaders such as Prince Charles. When you are standing next to somebody with a great personal presence you feel that, at that moment, the person is there just for you, that you have their full attention.

G lobal P erspective

Learn the secrets of personal charm!

How can you tell that someone is truly present in the moment? Among the telltale signs is the fact that the person keeps natural eye contact with you, displays an open body language, listens to you and asks relevant questions. It apparently takes only 17 milliseconds for you to notice that your partner is drifting away, losing the thread. Such a tiny moment can wreak a lot of damage in sensitive negotiations.

Fortunately, there are pretty simple tricks that can help you regain the present moment. Focus on your breathing or on your toes. If you try this strategy you will feel a sudden, strange signal shooting up through your body, forcing you to pay attention.

Another trick is to focus on the sounds in the room or the colour of the eyes of your partner. Guess what – human eyes do not come only in brown or blue.

They come in an incredible variety of shades and each person has a completely unique pair of eyes.

situations. Take for example a situation where a car overtakes you in an aggressive way on the road.

You have two options. Either you can get angry and let the situation get the better of you, or you can sit back and realise that you do not, in fact, know why the person did this. Maybe he was in a hurry to get a sick child to a hospital. This puts the situation in a completely different light. There are moments where it is actually good for us to show some vulnerability and allow others to get closer to us. It has been proven that people do not like perfect individuals. Sometimes all it takes is a slip of the tongue that suddenly makes you look more human.

I hope that this reflection will help us see charisma as something that can be learned and acquired.

However, the foundation on which we can build charisma is being true to yourself, being authentic.

A charismatic person is always present in the moment, is aware of his power, is warm and has no need to pretend – he is himself.

By Jan Muehlfeit GLOBAL STRATEGIST / COACH / MENTOR EXECUTIVE IN RESIDENCE – INSEAD RET. CHAIRMAN EUROPE Microsoft české znění naleznete v elektronické verzi magazínu na www.czechleaders.com

The second magic tip of the triangle is power.

Look at animal behaviour, let’s say the typical alpha male stance that a gorilla takes when he wants to dominate other gorillas. The male stands on his hind legs, feet wide apart, beating his chest with his fists.

We humans have parallel behavioural strategies.

We use gestures that may be friendly while still displaying your superiority and power. It can be an arm casually placed on the backrest of your partner’s chair or on his shoulders while walking.

Your clothing has a certain effect but a much stronger influence is exerted by a straight posture and domination of as big a space around you as possible. Sport and dance are among activities that can greatly help you in developing a correct, natural stance. I, for example, owe my physical selfconfidence and natural gait to tennis.

The last corner of our triangle belongs to warmth.

Your partner will be very quickly able to tell whether you pretend or whether you are serious. Nobody has complete, permanent control over all the aspects of body language. Emotional intelligence plays a crucial role when establishing personal contact. We must be masters of our emotions and at the same time be able to illicit a positive response in others. When you need to form a closer relationship or get back your audience’s attention, there are three failsafe topics you can use: children, partners, success and health. At least one of them will always work.

Personal warmth also means the ability to step into the shoes of others, in other words empathy, candid gratefulness, warm compliment and a shake of the hand. An interesting technique is “repainting” of your relationship with complicated people and

with

I n cooperation C zech L eaders

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I nterview

P hoto : J akub L udvík

Czech-Slovak relations are truly exceptional An

interview with

A mbassador

of the

H er E xcellency L ivia K lausová ,

C zech R epublic

to

S lovakia

Her Excellency Livia Klausová does not often give interviews, so I felt proud and honoured to be able to carry out an interview for this very special first issue, dedicated to Czech and Slovak relations. Having worked at the Diplomatic Academy, I know that interviewing an ambassador is a challenging task. Most questions cannot be answered directly and to other questions answers have to be deliberately vague. Nevertheless, I was looking forward to sending my questions to Mrs. Ambassador. Besides political issues, I was interested in topics related to issues of leadership and diversity. If I am to mention some characteristics that come to my mind with regards to Mrs. Ambassador, I personally perceive her as an authentic, modest and hard-working woman. A woman that managed to be the First Lady, mother and grandmother, while still professionally active and on top of that she has always found the time for her charity work. All this in a very unpretentious manner without the need to have the attention of the media.

Mrs. Livia Klausová, born in Bratislava, studied at the University of Economics in Prague as well as in Luxembourg and Amsterdam. She had worked as a research expert of the Economic Institute of the Czechoslovak Academy of Science and later as an executive secretary of the Czech Economic Society. In 2003–2013 she was the First Lady, and since December 2013 she has been serving as the Ambassador of the Czech Republic to the Slovak Republic.

With regards to her charity activities, let me mention the Czech National Marrow Donors Registry, Life 90 Foundation and managing the Livia and Václav Klaus Foundation that mainly focuses on the support of education of many age groups, ranging from high school students to senior citizens, as well as assistance provided to children after they leave foster homes or children whose life has been impacted by serious car accidents.

Your Excellency, it is undoubtedly true that Czech-Slovak relations are very special in their nature. However, some people who still remember Czechoslovakia as a unitary

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state, might consider the relations as a glass being rather half-empty than halffull. How do you perceive this phenomenon from Bratislava?

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Czech-Slovak relations are truly exceptional in their nature. And this is true not only about traditionally very close relations between the highest political representatives of both

I nterview countries, those of governments, parliaments but the same is true when you consider relations between regions, towns, villages, institutions and universities. Relations within the realm of culture are also very intensive. In addition, we should not forget to mention family and friendly ties on the individual level between the two nations.

Slovakia will hold the Presidency of the Council of the European Union starting July 2016. What are its main priorities and what kind of support it gets from the Czech Republic?

It is necessary to say that Slovakia has been very actively preparing for its historically first EU Presidency for a long time; the Presidency will start on July 1 2016 and last until the end of December 2016. As far as I know, the Slovak Republic is still working on its main political priorities. However, it is highly probable that these priorities will reflect the programme priorities of the so-called Trio EU Presidency, that is three successive presidencies and the current trio is made up by the Netherlands, Slovakia and Malta. The programme of this Trio reflects three strategic priorities, including the issue of economic growth and employment, better protection of the EU citizens (for example in the social or health area), energy security, freedom and justice and last but not least the role of the Union as a strong global player. For sure, Slovakia will have to deal with the current migration crisis and will lead the Council of the EU during a very uneasy period when many important and politically sensitive decisions.

And since you asked about the support from the Czech Republic, we naturally offer possible consultancy and exchange of experience from the times of Czech Presidency in the EU. However, the Presidency of the Council of the EU is first and foremost the responsibility of a given country that becomes for a half a year a “facilitator” of political and technical discussions and decision-making on various levels of the EU Council while being at the same responsible for communication with the other European Union Institutions. Presidency represents a big challenge and a big assessment.

It is very specific in the manner that it forces the country to think more in the European terms and to a certain extent to leave behind national interests. I wish Slovakia handled its historically first EU Presidency in the best possible way.

Slovak friends perceive the Czech Republic as the leading model in many areas. In which areas can the Czech Republic learn from Slovakia?

I admit that I am not fond of questions related to models. We can have certain models on the personal level, everyone has someone who played an important role in his or her life, was an inspiration or a good teacher and mentor.

However, this cannot be replicated on the state level, since it would bring generalisation and simplification which lead to creating stereotypes.

Moreover, it is not the role of the ambassador

to judge or assess the hosting country. As far as the Czech Republic and Slovakia are concerned, one country passes over its experience to the other in the areas where it happens to be a step ahead and vice-versa. Such mutuality only emphasises the special relations.

Can you compare the role of the First Lady and the Ambassador? To what extent do you have to play a certain role and to what extent can you be authentic?

Both First Lady and the Ambassador most of all represent a country. Both roles therefore come with a loss of privacy and a necessity to embrace many protocol rules. Both roles are similar in a sense that they entail not only many meetings with numerous people from different environments but also many administrative tasks. The main difference comes with the fact that the Ambassador is also responsible for managing the whole Embassy and a team of diplomatic and administrative staff. As far as “authenticity” is concerned in both roles, it is like in many other professions where an individual adds their own personal touch on top of a professional role.

You have become an ambassador, however you do not have the traditional support as expected from a spouse that plays a crucial role during many unofficial, yet supporting functions. Women have had traditionally low representation in diplomacy, which is also the regional trend in the Visegrad Four countries (Czech Republic, Slovakia, Poland and Hungary). Does the low representation of women prove the fact that diplomacy is harder for women?

I see the often cited low representation of women in politics or diplomacy as a myth.

I see a number of women in diplomacy and in local politics. However, the question why women do not enter the top politics is perhaps answered in your questions. It’s due to the fact that women lack support and a career conducive environment from their partners and husbands.

You were born in Slovakia, for a long time you have lived in the Czech Republic. Is there something that the Slovaks do not know about the Czechs and they should or vice versa, something the Czechs fail to appreciate when dealing with the Slovaks? Despite being close, we are still two different nations and I remember a case when one international corporation hired British experts on intercultural management to help with an efficient and effective Czech-Slovak merger.

My both parents came from Slovakia, my husband was born in Prague; I was born in Bratislava but most of my live we have lived in Czechoslovakia. Perhaps this is the reason that we do not perceive any possible differences so strongly. The Czechs and Slovaks are close to one another also due to history and yet we

still have differences but very subtle. In order to understand each other we certainly do not need experts from Great Britain.

You have spent your professional life following economy. Do you still manage to keep up with the latest economic trends?

The main task of an ambassador is not only following political events, but also paying great attention to economic issues. This is even more important in the case of Slovakia, being the second most important trade partner.

Economic ties are very strong in numerous spheres. Moreover, economic diplomacy represents one of the priorities of the foreign policy of the Czech Republic. In that sense, my economic studies are an advantage.

Your Livia and Václav Klaus Foundation has an education as a common denominator.

The Czech educational system is very often criticised. In which areas do you see the biggest room for improvement and which areas are you satisfied with?

Livia and Václav Klaus Foundation specialises on education. It is not meant to criticise the Czech educational system but to support hundreds of students during their high-school and university studies through scholarships, and primary schools children in their after school activities. We also support senior citizens, within the framework of the project “Seniors communicating” we teach the knowledge of using the latest communication devices. In terms of the Czech educational system, we can criticise our vocational schools not having enough students and on the other hand too many university students studying subjects of little relevance to the job market.

However, I still believe that our education system is a very good one.

Family has traditionally played an important role for you. Where and how do you get energy nowadays?

Family is naturally very important for me. I get energy from my closest relatives, friends and from many people whom I meet.

What are your last words to Czech and Slovak Leaders magazine readers?

The very fact that the Czech and Slovak Leaders magazine is now being published also in Slovakia reflects the Czechs and Slovaks being close to each other and our unique relationship. I wish all those who put together the magazine that it continues to be inspiring in both countries and that its interesting stories capture attention of all generations of your readers. our Excellency, thank you for your interview.

Y

By Linda Štucbartová české znění naleznete v elektronické verzi magazínu na www.czechleaders.com

CZECH&SLOVAK LEADERS I/2016

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E nergy C hallenge

THE POWER

P hoto : A rchive

OF ATTENTION Sanjiv Suri sanjiv@zatisigroup.cz

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CZECH&SLOVAK LEADERS I/2016

E nergy C hallenge

Most of my learning comes from my children,so when they asked me, “What is the difference between us humans and the animals?“ I promptly replied that we are intelligent and can use this intelligence to lead happier lives.

But, thinking about it, I realized that very often just the opposite was true. At least in my case, I often used my intelligence and mind chatter (77.000 thoughts pass through our minds every day and more than 70% could be negative) to the detriment of myself, our society and this planet. I often focused on what I did not want to see in my life, and every time I did, my intelligence worked to my detriment, making me less happy and very often quite miserable. The more I thought about it, the more it became clear that where I chose to focus my attention determined not only how I lived, but also affected the lives of a lot of people around me and potentially even future generations.

It is only when I give them my attention that they become powerful – I give them the power. It was the thoughts on which I focused my attention that became powerful, but I did not do this consciously – it was the subconscious programming that I was carrying with me.

Seven billion worlds…

The logic of the revelation was simple, but implementing it required skill.

We all share one planet but we live in seven billion different worlds. Each one of us lives in a world of our own based on what we focus our attention on and which thoughts we attach ourselves to emotionally and which thoughts we choose to ignore. So today I am going to share with you my experience of my world and how I see it.

Thoughts will come and go…

I was a victim of my ego & mind chatter. It led me into negative spirals and I would come out of it focusing mostly on the negative things in my life that I wanted to change. It was like Michael Jordan spending all his time cursing himself about what a poor golfer he was or Tiger Woods doing the same about what a bad basketball player he was.

Then I met Mooji – a spiritual master from Jamaica living in Portugal. Through his guidance and meditation, I realized that I was making myself and the people around me more miserable by focusing a lot of my attention on what I did not want to see in my life.

I learnt that thoughts come and go and if I don’t give them my attention, they have no power over me.

I also realized that I was getting what I was focusing on whether it was positive thoughts or negative mind chatter. Through all the negativity, a very powerful tool had revealed itself to me. lf I used it well, it could help me shape my life by focusing my attention positively on what I wanted and ignoring the thoughts related to what I did not want.

The fixed and the growth mindset…

One day, while watching a TED talk on „The Power of Belief and Mindset,” I suddenly realized I was often functioning subconsciously with a fixed mindset. A fixed mindset limits our capabilities and makes it more difficult to learn new things as we get older. I had become attached to this mindset and consequently it often determined or limited my behavior.

The growth mindset is just the opposite because it focuses on new possibilities and the positive. We can constantly learn new skills as long as we focus our attention on the learning process and do away with negative beliefs about our capabilities. It is a skill that, just like golf or piano or chess, can be learnt with practice. This was a wake-up call for me.

The Mastery of the sages…

Later, when I was in Portugal on a silent retreat with the spiritual master Mooji, I realized that all spiritual masters had mastered the ability to focus their attention on thoughts that would keep them in a positive growth mindset. They were able to ignore thoughts that could put them into a fixed mindset or would be negative – this was their Mastery.

This ability to focus attention by design fun-

damentally changed their lives. This was the most powerful choice they were making, and is probably the primary reason why they are called Masters.

The most powerful choice…

The most powerful choice that I have as a human is to determine what happens in my life by simply focusing attention on certain thoughts while completely disregarding others.

Initially it seemed difficult. But the more I consciously tried to maintain a growth mindset and focus my attention on the positives, the easier it seemed to get.

Meditation has helped me ignore some of the thoughts that could be detrimental to a growth mindset and it allows me to regain more and more of the power that I thought I never had. Today I believe that we all have this power – the power of focusing our attention on what we want.

If I focus my attention on what I want and thoughts that create a positive synergy and systematically ignore negative thoughts about what I don’t want, it brings a very powerful change. It is so simple and yet so powerful that when I first realized it, I spent nearly an hour laughing out loud to myself and thinking about all the time I had wasted on negative mind chatter. Now, when my mind starts chattering, it just brings a smile to my face and I say, “There it goes again”.

As I learn from my children, I also hope to be able to lead my life in a way that they may learn something from me. It would be a fun game of mutual learning. I think it is a beautiful possibility to live into ☺

CZECH&SLOVAK LEADERS I/2016

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11 SBP

security conference

th

P hoto : M ichal P avlík

Prague Security Conference

European Union – Czechia – Asia: Challenges and opportunities for economy, trade and security On November 6, 2015, the National Technical Library hosted the 11th annual Prague Security Conference “European Union – Czechia – Asia: Challenges and opportunities for economy, trade and security “. The conference has traditionally been organized by the Center for Security Policy, IPS, Faculty of Social Sciences, Charles University in Prague, in cooperation with Friedrich Ebert Stiftung, and the Representation of the European Commission in the Czech Republic. The conference was attended by more than three hundred participants.

In

cooperation

with

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C zech & S lovak L eaders

From left: H.E. Tajammul Altaf, Ambassador of the Pakistan to the Czech Republic and H.E. Nadzirah Osman, Ambassador of the Malaysia to the Czech Republic

Audience of the 11th Prague Security Conference

From left: Miloš Balabán, Head of the Center for Security Policy, IPS FSS CU and Ivan Hodač, Member of the Board, Aspen Institute Prague

SBP

From left: H.E. Ma Keqing, Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to the Czech Republic and Alexander Lukin, Director, Center for East Asian and Shanghai Cooperation Organization Studies, MGIMO-University, MFA of Russian Federation

Pavel Řežábek, Chief Economist of the Commercial and Strategy Officer, ČEZ, a.s

From left: Petr Jüptner, Director of Institute of Political Studies, Faculty of Social Sciences, Charles University in Prague and Lubomír Zaorálek, Minister of the Foreign Affairs of the Czech Republic

From left: Shin Beom Chul, Director-General for Policy Planning, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Republic of Korea, Miloš Balabán, Head of the Center for Security Policy, IPS FSS CU, and Lubomír Zaorálek, Minister of the Foreign Affairs of the Czech Republic

From left: Shin Beom Chul, Director-General for Policy Planning, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Republic of Korea and Prof. Jing Men, Director of EU-China Research Centre, InBev-Baillet Latour Chair of European Union – China Relations, College of Europe

From left: Martin Svoboda, Director of National Technical Library, Miloš Balabán, Head of the Center for Security Policy, IPS FSS CU, and Tomáš Prouza, State Secretary for European Affairs

security conference

Lee II Houng, President of Korea Institute for International Economic Policy

From left: Tomáš Prouza, State Secretary for European Affairs and Ivan Hodač, Member of the Board, Aspen Institute Prague

From left: Prof. Douglas Stuart, Stuart Chair in International Studies, Dickinson College and Jan Ludvík, Centre for Security Policy IPS FSS CU

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From left: Lubomír Zaorálek, Minister of the Foreign Affairs of the Czech Republic and Jürgen Stetten, Head of Asia Department, Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung, Berlin

Alexander Lukin, Director, Center for East Asian and Shanghai Cooperation Organization Studies, MGIMO-University, MFA of the Russian Federation

From left: Prof. Douglas Stuart, Stuart Chair in International Studies, Dickinson College and Jan Ludvík, Centre for Security Policy IPS FSS CU

From left: Prof. Aleš Gerloch, Pro-rector of the Charles University in Prague and H.E. Ma Keqing, Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to the Czech Republic

From left: Ivan Hodač, Member of the Board, Aspen Institute Prague, Jan Mládek, Minister of Industry and Trade of the Czech Republic, and Ruth Kattumuri, India Observatory & Asia Research Centre, London School of Economics

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E ntrepreneurship

Winners of the TOP 10 Startups of the Czech Republic

From Survivors to Winners

Tomáš Sedláček, Economist, ČSOB, Karel Sedláček, ViceChairman, International Christian Embassy Jerusalem, Lukáš Sedláček, Executive Director, ELAI

On November 19, 2015, the European Leadership & Academic Institute (ELAI) organized Global Entrepreneurship Week for the third time in the Czech Republic. The all-week event attracted 5 300 participants who participated in 65 events all over the country. The main event, Entrepreneurship Summit called “From Survivors to Winners!”, became the destination of 1700 attendees, interested in gaining tips from successful entrepreneurs from the Czech Republic and abroad. The next big event organized by ELAI – the 2016 Innovation Week – will take place in the third weekw of May. P hoto : O ndřej B esperát

From left Ambassadors of USA, Israel, Chile and South Korea

H. E. Andrew Schapiro, U. S. Ambassador and Lukáš Sedláček, Executive Director, ELAI

Lubo Šmíd, Co-founder & COO, STRV

Petr Očko, Director of Section of EU Funds and R&D, Ministry of Industry and Trade and Jacob Fass, President & CEO, JFI-Ltd.

Pavel Šťastný , Art Director, Plechárna at the Art Meets Business

Main event of the summit, international conference From Survivors to Winners!

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N aples ,

the city of contrasts

Naples,

Gulf of Naples and Vesuvius

the city of contrasts There are just a few European cities over which so many different powers were fighting for so many centuries.

Naples was probably founded by the inhabitants of a Greek settlement around 8th century BC. In 326 BC, the city was seized by the Romans and became a host city for many emperors over many centuries. In 476, the last Roman emperor was dethroned and held prisoner in Castel dell´Ovo. Gradually, the control over Naples was taken over by the Byzantines, in 1137 the city was seized by the Normans and the Kingdom of Sicily was established which was growing into beauty and wealth. Soon afterwards, the city was seized again, this time by German Staufen, in the 13th century the line of a French Anjou dynasty was in power, in the 15th century the Aragonese took reign of Naples, and at the beginning of the 16th century, for a change, the Spanish became its rulers. In the 18th century, the city remained under the rule of Austria for about 30 years.

The most flourishing times for Naples came probably under the Bourbon dynasty when it became one of the most important European cities.

This fact did not pass unnoticed by Napoleon Bonaparte either who seized Naples at the end of the 18th century; however, after 1815 Naples returned to the hands of the Bourbons. In 1860, the troops of Garibaldi seized the city and thus it became part of the emerging Italian Kingdom and later the republic. Since the Italian union in 1861, Naples has been struggling for its prestige with other major Italian cities.

Naples and Vesuvius

Naples is the city of contrasts,

most likely due to the fact that each ruling family has left their legacy here. Naples is not that homogenous and “Romanian” as for example Rome. It is something between Marseille, Paris, Milano, Genova, Athens, and Havana. Naples has a really attractive location which predestined the city for busy trading.

A big bay led to construction of a large port; natural conditions, scenic area and favourable climate invited to a quick settlement.

Naples is beautiful from a distance. Gorgeous bay, Mount Vesuvius rising in the background, rich vegetation, wavy valley, majestic battlements of medieval castles, and domes of significant buildings ensure the city’s monumentality. When you take a closer look, it may seem nobody takes care of the city. It is chaotic, loud, dirty, smelling, neglected, dusty, battered, and falling apart. And this exactly is the key to its careless charm, the origins of which must be uncovered first to discover its magic. We will understand a lot when we learn about Naples´ history, lifestyle, and character of its citizens.

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The people of Naples don´t play at anything, they don´t pretend. They are lazy but pleasant. They are not very open but are proud. If you don´t speak Italian or French, you have no chance to make yourself understood. The citizens enjoy their city fully but they don´t take care of it, as if they were expecting another Vesuvius eruption any moment again. So, the city somehow takes care of itself where only all that is firmer and more stable survives.

These days, Naples is not more dangerous than New York, Marseille, or London Soho, as it often used to be said in the past. All tourists are rushing to infamous Spanish quarters for the best pizza (which you just must try since it originated in Naples). Through the narrowest and longest paved streets where cars can´t get through, scooters are speeding up and masterfully keep off the pedestrians who become moisturised by drops of water from laundry hanging all over them and you can´t see a piece of the sky above. You are in the centre of action. Numerous old squares with marble fountains are hidden by crowns of ancient trees; in corners you will discover headstones and numerous evidence of rich history. Monumental citadels and castles show efforts of many conquerors to protect their pray against new desirous raiders; richly decorated cathedrals show evidence of power of rulers and influence of the church. The most significant museum of archaeology in the world contains countless antique treasures of more than 2 thousand years old. Richly decorated house facades are black with clinging ash, a remainder of the Mount Vesuvius eruption in 79, the city´s riverside, streets as well as the port and beaches are black too.

CZECH&SLOVAK LEADERS I/2016

Teatro di San Carlo, gem among opera scenes In the evening, the city changes. Black colour of the streets blends into the darkness and together with the Neapolitans we are on our way to the most amazing theatre, the oldest opera scene in Europe, Teatro di San Carlo. Since its foundation in 1737 it has been the oldest con-

Historical centre of Naples

N aples ,

Teatro di San Carlo

tinuously functioning opera scene in Europe.

Thanks to the Bourbon king Carl VII who had it built, the centre of opera moved here from northern Italy. Theatres La Scala in Milano and La Fenice in Venice were built only years later in the same architectonic style and San Carlo served as a model for many other major opera scenes all over the world. A large auditorium originally accommodated up to 3000 viewers, but after the WWII bombing the theatre was reduced when reconstructed. Despite this fact, today it

can accommodate about 1500 viewers and its still impressive stage commands respect. Only strong singers may perform here so that their voice gets to all corners of the auditorium.

After the union of Italy in 1861, the centre of opera moved north again to La Scala; however, thanks to financial support, quality opera composers (Puccini, Leoncavallo, Giordano, Cilea), outstanding orchestra, conductors, management, and pride of Neapolitan opera lovers, the glory of the opera house gradually returned again. Opera schools were created here; composers were supported, so the importance of opera could only flourish. By the end of the 19th century, the opera house assembled its own great orchestra under the lead of Pietro Mattucci, which also attracted renowned conductors, such as Arturo Toscanini, Pietro Mascagni, or composer Richard Strauss. Only one famous opera personality never came back. It was Naples countryman Enrico Caruso who in 1901 was booed off by a part of the audience and refused to come back ever since to the sorrow of everybody, and they say he was spending more time in Sorrento than Naples ever since.

Famous conductor Zubin Mehta, who began his carrier here as a young man, now in his 80s, has returned to the theatre, this time as head conductor. His Carmen interpretation in December 2015 was breathtaking and commanded respect of audience as well as orchestra and singers. Neapolitan opera audience is fantastic, as if from another world. During the day carelessly

the city of contrasts

looking Neapolitans obviously cherish the place they are visiting and in the evening they change into a graceful, elegant, and festively tuned audience that is able to provide an expert opinion as well. They are attentive and uncompromising. The artists may be condemned or raised to heaven’s heights by them. That´s why the atmosphere in the Neapolitan opera is inimitable, because, on the contrary to other world scenes, it is true and authentic.

They say we live at the time when the same Vesuvius eruption may occur – just like the one that destroyed Pompeii and Herculaneum 2000 years ago. The Neapolitans therefore developed their own ironical explanation of the origins of a known saying “To see Naples and die”. The first explanation says that the city is so beautiful that you cannot see anything nicer anywhere and therefore you may peacefully die right now. The second explanation says that Camorra, the Neapolitan-Sicilian mafia, was lurking at every single corner here which means you never leave Naples alive. Well, and the third confirmation of the saying will come with another sudden Vesuvius eruption. However, everybody hopes that scientists may be wrong.

By Iva Drebitko Photos: Archive of the author české znění naleznete v elektronické verzi magazínu na www.czechleaders.com

Naples, Castel dell´Ovo Naples, Old City, western part

CZECH&SLOVAK LEADERS I/2016

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SKAL CHRISTMAS GALA DINNER DANCE PARTY

In

cooperation with

C zech

& S lovak L eaders

In the middle:Heinz Reigl, President, SKAL and Jan Muhlfeit, former Chairman Europe, Microsoft surrounded by Young SKAL members

SKAL CLUB PRAGUE CHRISTMAS PARTY

On December 11, 2015, SKAL Club Prague held its traditional Christmas Party at the top floor of Corinthia Hotel Prague. This time, however, it was also an event to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Club and therefore all members and several honourable guests were invited, accompanied by their spouses and friends. President Heinz Reigl was holding a speech to illustrate the twenty successful years of the Club and the main achievements, pointing out the fact that SKAL Club Prague has one of the biggest Young SKAL Clubs in Europe. This memorable event was topped by a traditional raffle, the collected money of which is – as every year – donated to children in need.

Claudio Sturm, General Director, Falkensteiner Maria Hotel Prague with his wife

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Johannes Schuschu, General Manager, Penta Hotel Prague with his wife

CZECH&SLOVAK LEADERS I/2016

Heinz Reigl, President, SKAL with his wife

Karel Urban, Managing Director, Next Mobile Solutions with his wife

Young SKAL members Ms. Šimandlová, Mr. Logojda and Ms. Doležánová

Heinz Reigl, President, SKAL delivering his 20 years anniversary speech

Richard van Reem selling tickets for the SKAL Christmas raffle

Jan Kohout, VŠO with his wife

From left: Jiří Matoušek, SKAL Secretary with his wife, Jan Kohout, VŠO

Markus Klos, PTV Media s.r.o.

Ulf Landeberg, General Manager, Lindner Hotel Prague with his spouse

Manuel Jimenez Alonso, Body and Soul International with his girlfriend

From left: Javier Chamoso, General Manager, Eurostars Thalia Hotel with his partner and Jose-Luis Atienza, Manager, Persona Travel with his wife

CZECH&SLOVAK LEADERS I/2016

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An

interview with

T omáš P rouza , State Secretary for European Affairs

“Even though some people may wish so, there is no danger the European Union would fall apart.”

According to Tomáš Prouza, the Czech Republic is a reliable and predictable member of the European Union. How does it make his work as the main liaison between the Czech government and Brussels easier? How, in his opinion, has Europe united regarding the migration crisis and what did the Czech Republic achieve in the EU within the last year? In the interview for Czech & Slovak Leaders, the State Secretary for European Affairs also comments on the date of possible adoption of a single European currency by the Czech Republic.

Dear Mr Prouza, on your webpage you present yourself as a “European, economist, and a bit different official”. Why is that?

The word “official” often evokes rigidness, lengthy procedures, and stereotypes. Although I am an official formally, I do not identify with such negative view. Especially in European politics I have to be really dynamic, I must be able to react to quick changes occurring in Europe; I need to keep contact with “Brussels” all the time, with my colleagues in other EU member states as well as the Czech Republic leaders.

Which apparently is happening...

Important part of my work is increasing awareness of the European Union and its significance for our country among the Czechs. That was underestimated by previous governments and since January 2014 when I joined the Office of Government, it has been my task to change this situation radically. Which you can´t do if people consider you a non-action and boring person sitting behind his desk.

What exactly does your work involve on a daily basis?

First of all, my task is to give the government recommendations regarding our strategy in European affairs. It means what major issues we should focus on in our European policy, what and how we should promote, and which direction we want to proceed. I am also responsible for coordinating Czech positions towards European institutions, I have to regularly communicate with my colleagues from other member states, which also means personal meetings as well and so a lot of travelling. However, frequent contacts have been the basis for successful Czech European policy in the last two years; our partners show us much more respect if we explain our position in person.

Can you give us some examples, please?

Regular contact helps the Czech Republic create coalitions thanks to which other member states support our plans. I would like to add that besides this diplomatic role, an important part

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of my work is communication on European issues to the public and a regular dialogue with our Parliament and Czech members of the European Parliament.

You mentioned regular contact. Do you mind that work of the State Secretary for European Affairs is not much discussed in media?

When it comes to the media, it of course matters what issues are currently popular. If domestic politics is discussed, Europe is put aside, which I personally feel sorry about as it is an evidence of the fact that our journalistic community still lacks perception of the scale of influence that EU affairs have on a domestic scene. When I took the position of the State Secretary for European Affairs, two months later we celebrated 10 years in the EU, which meant a big interest of journalists in interviews, conferences, and various discussion meetings around the country. Back then, I could not say that the media do not pay enough attention to the European agenda and my work. In the summer of 2014, I spent a lot of media time on explaining sanctions against Russia. For the last six months, a topic number one has been migration and refugee crisis. The issue which I am dealing with 24 hours a day, 7 days a week in my office. European issues get more and more publicity, which is important.

What is other member states´ perception of the Czech approach to the migration crisis?

Due to the fact that Brussels was focusing mainly on the so-called relocation system at the beginning of the migration crisis, our position was not understood by some member states.

Now, all-European approach is progressing in the same direction that the Czechs have been advocating since the very beginning – solving migration crisis at its roots and control of external Schengen borders.

What, in your opinion, makes the European Union most united these days?

What really has united European states in the course of the last months is their common reaction to tragic events in Paris last November. All

CZECH&SLOVAK LEADERS I/2016

Photo: Archive member states condemned this unprecedented display of hatred and violence. Parisian attacks were directed at traditional European values and wanted to make them weaker; however, it has paradoxically united the old continent and we all started working on securing safer Europe in the quickest and most efficient way.

What on the other hand makes Europe most divided?

The European Union consists of sovereign states and in a democratic society it is natural that priorities differ; there are different opinions and views. I don´t think there is a topic that would absolutely divide the Union; there are topics which we view differently from our partners, however this does not bring any fatal consequences to the European Union as a whole.

Even though some people may wish so, there is no danger the European Union would fall apart.

Are we able as a member state to keep up with changes in Europe? Are we reliable?

In the past, the image of the Czech Republic was one of a troublemaker obstructing progress in major European issues. However, this changed two years ago and the Czechs are a reliable and predictable member of the European Union now. This I am repeatedly assured about by our partners abroad. We are able to react to changes quickly, which was visible during migration crisis last time, when we repeatedly manifested our solidarity by accepting refugees in need, by increasing material and expert aid. However, at the same time, we clearly voiced up what is im-

An

interview with

portant for us – and now our opinion is being adopted by the whole Europe.

Does the Czech Republic have a clear idea of who should represent the main face of its foreign policy, and I don´t mean constitutionally?

Not looking at that from the point of view of the constitution, this should be a person with adequate knowledge and respect. Czech foreign policy is determined by the government.

Responsibility goes to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, however in top meetings with foreign partners the main role is played by Prime Minister. And let me tell you that the cooperation with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is fantastic.

Our great advantage is that we have an active Chairman of the Chamber of Deputies since the role of parliamentarian diplomacy has been becoming stronger and stronger.

What would you like to mention as the main success of Czech politics in Brussels last year?

I don´t think it was just one success. I consider an important achievement for example adoption of all operational programmes, which means the Czech Republic is able to draw approximately 644 billion Czech Crowns from the European budget in a new programming period of 2014-2020. Following the ineffective drawing of European funds in past years, the situation has finally changed.

As far as you keep saying, it may also be the issue of migration and its solution.

After an unconvincing start it became clear later that a really effective way is to solve causes, not results. European leaders agreed on the approach that the Czech Republic has been supporting since the very beginning – protection of external Schengen borders without which we can never succeed in dealing with migration crisis. Towards the end of the last year, the European Commission also started their work on a draft of a single European border guard, i.e. a system which the Czech Prime Minister has been repeatedly talking about in the course of the last months. It is obvious that Czech voice is being heard in Europe.

Has there been any failure?

I don´t see any major failure in Europe. We could definitely get much better in explaining European affairs at home since the stereotypes inside some people´s heads persist, especially thanks to the support from many populists and half-forgotten politicians whose last chance is a “scarecrow of Brussels”.

Ten years ago you were the first ever national coordinator for Euro adoption in the CR. So, let me ask a clear question – will we ever have Euro in the Czech Republic at all?

Of course we will, although the decision about the entry is unfortunately not going to come within this election term. Nevertheless, the government makes efforts to prepare everything so that the next cabinet can decide about Euro adoption quickly and does not have to work on technical aspects anymo-

T omáš P rouza , S tate S ecretary

re. Adoption of Euro will bring significant economic advantages to the Czech Republic; therefore we should act as quickly as possible.

Is the Czech Republic now building on the grounds you had set up in your position?

What has actually been the biggest development for the ten years?

Previously, most of our governments were not in favour of our country´s entry into the Euro zone, which reflected their position towards European integration issues in general. Only this government stated in its programme declaration the purpose to re-evaluate existing standpoints towards monetary integration and to prepare the CR for joining the Euro zone, which is really happening now. So, the system which I had built up long ago starts coming to live again.

What do you feel is the main advantage of a single European currency in 2016?

Finalising the process of the Czech economy integration into European monetary structures. The Czech Republic will be able to fully participate in the formation of the economic and monetary union. All that will have a positive impact on our national economic policy because the key features of the system are enquiries of medium-term balanced public budgets and structural reforms supporting long-term economic growth. Irreversible fixing of currency will bring increased stability to the financial sector and decreased risks of monetary turbulences. Sharp exchange rate fluctuations represent a great risk for a small open economy such as ours. Eliminating exchange rate risk towards Euro zone countries, which are the most important trade partners for the Czech Republic, will bring profit especially to our companies. These advantages will become evident in the decrease of transaction and security costs as well as decrease of investment uncertainty. The household sector will profit from higher price transparency which stimulates competition.

What do you think is the main disadvantage of Euro – after the series of financial injections to some Euro zone countries?

From the point of view of the Czech Republic the main risks are connected especially to the reaction of economy to economic disruptions. For economic policy of the Czech Republic, the loss of independent monetary policy would mean loss of important tools which are able to help reduce negative impacts arising from different domestic and foreign economic development, and thus facilitate economic convergence. In connection to the recent development in the Euro zone, the system, created in the frames of the Euro zone as a help to the countries in need, i.e. providing so-called financial injections, is also essential. Of course, if the Czech Republic were a Euro zone member, it would have to participate in such system in a solidary way.

What benefits will a bank union bring to the Czech Republic?

Right now, the office of the government is analysing experience of other member countries with

for

E uropean A ffairs

the bank union. I consider the main advantage of the bank union a possibility to become part of a stable system headed by a respected institution such as the European Central Bank. In addition, it is a possibility to influence creation of supervisory standards for financial institutions all over Europe.

Entering the bank union would also mean our participation in a decision process of major credit institutions of the Euro zone as well as a possibility to access the funds from the Single Fund used for bank crises solutions.

Server Peníze.cz, consulting company Partners... you left your legacy in many places.

Are you planning to return to a private sector in the future, where you had been successful?

I think it is important that I know life in both private as well as public sector. It gives me the ability to focus on important issues and be clear about what helps Czech companies and what on the contrary slows them down. Currently, I am not planning any change but I am open to anything interesting life will bring me next.

During the world financial crisis you worked for the World Bank. Have the priorities of the bank changed due to the crisis?

Quite substantially. First, now the World Bank is focusing much more on issues such as financial inclusion and high-quality financial market supervision but most importantly, the World Bank started to intensify focus on advisory activities and economic reforms support.

It has been more than ten years since the bank moved the Czech Republic from the group of developing countries among those of world economies. Have we succeeded?

For the time being yes, but let me use the words of a classic – we have to try harder. Bringing our economy closer to developed European economies stopped in past years as a result of restrictive economic policy of previous governments, the digital economy fast train is speeding away from us and we don´t know how to profit from smart Czech brains. Above all, however, we are not able to explain to people how well they are – economy is growing quickly, unemployment is at its minimum but people don´t seem to see this.

Mr Prouza, who do you consider a real leader?

Among current politicians it is Angela Merkel who at the time of crisis was able to give up her caution and bet everything on the fact that Germany is a country strong enough to be able to take care of millions of people fleeing from slaughter and terror.

However, the highest inspiration for me is Franklin Delano Roosevelt. One of his quotes gives a very good definition of the way I perceive my task: It is not that we give more to those who already have a lot what would test our progress, but if we give enough to those who have too little.

Thank you.

By: editorial (jk) české znění naleznete v elektronické verzi magazínu na www.czechleaders.com

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C entrum P araple

exhibition

Ten items of prestigious Kodl Gallery & Auction Hall Vltavín art auction held in November 29, 2015 were auctioned to help wheelchair users with a fantastic result – 814 000 CZK. Proceeds from the auction were again wholly dedicated to rehabilitation and counselling services provided by the Paraple Centrum which assists and supports clients with spinal cord injury.

Paraple Centrum Charity Auction Giant canvas “Face on the grass” by Petr Nikl with his characteristic theme of faces with animal masks climbed from starting price to a fantastic result of 160 000 CZK.

Charity auction included 10 works of art by prominent Czech visual artists such as Jan Knap, Lubomir Typlt, Petr Nikl, Stanislav Kolíbal, Jan Hísek, Ales Lamr or Jaroslav Horejc.

Among others, a meditative painting of idyllic landscape has been auctioned for highest price of 240 000 CZK. Jan Knap is not yet fully appreciated in the Czech Republic, but abroad very well esteemed and widely exhibited representative of sacred art authors.

“It looks that the alliance of the Kodl Gallery and renowned artists with the Paraple Centrum becomes beneficial for our wheelchair account.” Zdeněk Svěrák, the founder of Centrum Paraple.

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“May the auction bring a lot of happiness, especially to the Paraple Centrum, but also to young, novice authors who we are trying to offer here along with well established artists. Drawing by Anna Kodešová exceeded three times the starting price.” Martin Kodl, the “father” of the beneficiary project.

sustainable development

HISTORIC CLIMATE CHANGE AGREEMENT:

A VICTORY FOR THE CZECH REPUBLIC The announcement of an historic agreement to combat climate change after two weeks of intensive negotiations at the recent United Nations summit in Paris was a victory for the Czech Republic and the world.

Having attending each of the annual Conferences of the Parties (COPs) since Kyoto in 1998, I was proud and privileged to witness the emotional conclusion of COP 21 when French Foreign Minister Laurent Fabius, who led the talks, lowered his gavel in front of thousands of expectant delegates to declare that a deal had finally been done.

Overwhelming emotion swept through the convention hall as hitherto restrained national representatives cheered, hugged, kissed and in some cases even cried with joy after many hours of sleepless negotiations.

“The Paris Agreement allows each delegation and group of countries to go back home with their heads held high. Our collective effort is worth more than the sum of our individual effort.

Our responsibility to history is immense” said the demonstrably elated Fabius, President of the COP 21 UN climate change conference.

No one could avoid the feeling that we were truly observing history in the making. Indeed, I can honestly attest that this was one of the most memorable personal experiences in my life.

The Paris Agreement for the first time brings all 195 nations into a common cause aimed A former director of Greenpeace International, Jonathan Wootliff lives in Prague and works throughout the world as a sustainability consultant to business. He chairs the Board of Experts of the Czech Business Council for Sustainable Development. He has consulted many large corporations including BP, Colgate-Palmolive, McDonald’s, Procter & Gamble and Whirlpool, and providing counsel to companies on the development of sustainability strategies that benefit the environment, society and business. Among his many activities, he helps companies to resolve disputes, forge productive relationships with non-governmental organizations, and build long-term sustainability strategies. A qualified journalist with a subsequent background in public relations, Jonathan commonly assists companies with their sustainability communications. He can be contacted at jonathan@wootliff.com

at maintaining a global temperature rise this century well below two degrees Celsius and to drive efforts to limit the increase even further to 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels.

In underlining the Czech Republic’s commitment to mitigate climate change, Prime Minister Bohuslav Sobotka, who flew to Paris ahead of the agreement to help ensure this global deal, declared: “Our greenhouse gas emission level was 34 per cent lower in 2013 compared to the 1990 levels.

“Together with the EU and its Member States, we have submitted the Intended National Determined Contribution (INDC) and made an ambitious commitment to further reduce the greenhouse gas emissions by at least 40 per cent by 2030 compared to 1990.”

French President Francois Hollande told the assembled delegates: “You’ve done it, reached an ambitious agreement, a binding agreement, a universal agreement. Never will I be able to express more gratitude to a conference. You can be proud to stand before your children and grandchildren.”

In addition to introducing significant measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, the Paris Agreement will strengthen the world’s ability to deal with the impacts of climate change.

And to achieve these ambitious and important goals, every nation concurred with the need for appropriate financial flows will be put in place, thus making stronger action by developing countries and the most vulnerable possible, in line with their own national objectives.

In my numerous articles about climate change for this publication, I have always contended that this is the single most important issue facing humanity.

As an intense follower of the climate change issue over many years, it’s easy for me to understand the severe consequences if our governments failed to demonstrate a commitment for combatting the problem.

Certainly the prospect of climate change causing significant increases in the cost of beer, or indeed no beer at all will have resonance to ordinary Czechs.

A recent survey revealed that a majority of Czech hop growers are directly experiencing the consequences of climate change which is beginning to have adverse effects on production.

The agricultural sector is particularly exposed to climatic change. Agricultural practices are climate-dependent and yields vary over years depending on shorter term weather patterns.

There is growing evidence that changes in temperatures and rainfall patterns are affecting the yield of many crops, and subsequent food production and indirectly effect changes in water availability.

In the Ústí region of the Czech Republic, hop cultivation is a longstanding and traditional agricultural production activity, accounting for more than 73 percent of the nation’stotal production.

Here, the majority of hop growers believe that global climate change is potentially threatening their livelihoods and that both yields and quality are being compromised.

The Czech Hydrometeorological Institute has discovered that even with relatively modest warming which they say has so far been experienced in the country, hop yields have stagnated and quality has declined.

As important as beer may be, the serious impacts that climate change is having on the nation’s food crops should be a cause for even greater concern.

It is measures now promised by government to help farmers adapt to these changes that will help to reduce the risk of severe increase in food prices and even the potential for bankruptcies in the agricultural sector.

Environment Minister, Richard Brabec, who headed up the country’s negotiating team at the Paris conference said: “Like other countries the Czech Republic has experienced many floods and long-lasting droughts causing severe and irreversible damage.

“Therefore, we have prepared a comprehensive National Adaptation Strategy, which was adopted just a few weeks ago. This strategy reflects scientific findings, informs about possible negative impacts and proposes adaptation measures in many affected areas.”

No nation on earth can escape the consequences of climate change. While breathing a sigh of relief that our politicians have finally woken up to the threats and have committed to taking steps to tackle the problem, we must now ensure that government keeps its eye on the ball.

The Paris Agreement was a victory for Czech farmers and the nation as a whole, but we cannot afford for current or future governments to weaken their resolve.

By Jonathan Wootliff

CZECH&SLOVAK LEADERS I/2016

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C ontributors

Generation It is still true that people as a social element have three core needs. One of them is to be respected as a totally specific individual. Social networks reflect this need. The second need is the need to belong somewhere. This need too can be fulfilled better and faster on social networks than in the real world. In addition, we have the need to be appreciated and that is what we so often call for on networks. Maybe, social networks and Internet represent a new platform to satisfy these needs. Their history is short, we will see.

I don’t think it is technology but people who decide about the future. Being old as I am, my personal chances are minimal. What is important for those who will not only decide, but especially live in a digital era, being called Generation Y or Millennials by their birth dates?

• • • •

open to changes creative adaptable entrepreneurial spirit

The worse situation is regarding their optimism, self-esteem, and team skills. Some qualities are typical for young generations in general, and so their connection to a digital era is just marginal. Nevertheless, and absolutely naturally, employers show the highest interest in them.

Recently, I have read an interesting article in Lidové noviny newspaper on “digital dissent” and an interview with its Berlin intellectual leader Thilo Utke. Besides the omnipresent Internet, smartphones, and new applications which will create a bridge between technology and users, he speaks about the battle against freedom restraint, global monitoring, protection of personal freedom, but also about creative potential of young generation. His opinions represent not only the “IT” generation but also many young people outside this profession.

P hoto : A rchive

These are their preferences according to the research realized in the USA: • meaningful work • salary less important • high level of self-fulfillment • demanding work • don´t care for high level of responsibility They want work mobility, working at night too, prefer freelance work, and believe that their working time will be flexible in future. In a team, they prefer working online, use smartphones, and often download applications suitable for their work. Thanks to the Internet, the importance of the place as a geographical location necessary for work is disappearing.

What are they like and how are they different from previous generations: • high level of narcissism 68

CZECH&SLOVAK LEADERS I/2016

On the other hand, you get the feeling that the more knowledge of technology you have, the higher your chances to protect your personality are. Hackers often speak about unsustainability of personal data protection, but at the same time they are able to protect its loss very well.  The founder of Facebook, Zuckerberg, said that if everything goes public, nobody will be interested anymore and the concept of privacy will be restored. Hard to tell…

Extract from a new book Digital Era which will be published by Albatros Media in Spring.

By Ivan Pilný Member of the Parliament, ANO party President of Tuesday Business Network české znění naleznete v elektronické verzi magazínu na www.czechleaders.com

D iplomatic F orum

FRYDAY Diplomatic Forum

with H.E. Pedro Calvo-Sotello, Ambassador of Spain

H. E. Pedro Calvo-Sotello, Ambassador of Spain

From left: Hans Weber, Managing Partner FRYDAY Prague and H.E. Pedro Calvo-Sotello, Ambassador of Spain

Olga MelnikovĂĄ, Managing Partner, CAREER BRIDGE

Mauro Lazzari, Managing Director, VIDATEC a.s. – TTC2 s.r.o.

Dr. Alexandre Fedorovski, Independent Lecturer

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D iplomatic F orum

FRYDAY Diplomatic Forum

Photo by: Ekaterina Gritt and Hans Weber

with H.E. Ahmet Necati Bigali, Ambassador of Turkey

JUDr. Světlana Patáková Boučková

Rikkert Niewold, Consultant, De Vere Group

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From left: Rikkert Niewold, Consultant, De Vere Group and Fethi Etem, First Counsellor at the Turkish Embassy in the Czech Republic

H.E. Ahmet Necati Bigali, Ambassador of Turkey

Martin Kavena, LL.B, B.C.L., Chamber of Deputies, Parliament of the Czech Republic

D iplomatic F orum

FRYDAY Diplomatic Forum

with H.E. PABLO MACEDO RIBA, Ambassador of Mexico Olga Melnikovรก, Project Manager, CAREER BRIDGE

James Rubinstein, President, Maxim Brand

From left: H.E. Pablo Macedo Riba, Ambassador of Mexico and Hans Weber, Managing Partner, FRYDAY Prague

Mauro Lazzari, Managing Director, VIDATEC a.s. - TTC2 sro

From left: Carlos Navarro Bustamente, Administrator, Embassy of Mexico and Miguel Alonso Berrio, Deputy Head of Mission Embassy of Spain

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ČSÚZ

In

cooperation with

C zech

& S lovak L eaders

The End of 2015 in the Czechoslovak Foreign Institute On 23 September, the German Ambassador discussed with the members and friends of the Czechoslovak Foreign Institute on the Czech-German relations and the current problems with the influx of immigrants in Europe. On the photo with the chairman of the Czechoslovak Foreign Institute Jaromír Šlápota (on the right) and member of the Managing Board of the Institute Ing. Radomír Šimek (on the left).

The end of the year in the Czechoslovak Foreign Institute brought a series of interesting events to the members and friends of this independent association. The German Ambassador discussed with the members on the Czech-German relations and the current problems with the influx of immigrants in Europe. The Chairman of the Czechoslovak Foreign Institute Jaromír Šlápota received the honorary Masaryk´s Medal, granted to him by the Masaryk Democratic Movement during the festive meeting. He then presented the Memorial Silver Lion of the Czechoslovak Foreign Institute to the Masaryk Democratic Movement. Both institutions thus recognized the mutual fruitful long-term cooperation.

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Vice-president of the Czechoslovak Foreign Institute, senator Ivo Valenta together with the Slovak ambassador and the mayor of Prague 6 Ondřej Kolář invited members of the Institute, diplomats and other important personalities to the Czech - Moravian Slovak - Slovak evening held in the historic building of Villa Pellé. The participants agreed on the fact that even after the split of Czechoslovakia, people from both sides of the boundaries have an excellent relationship and they love to encounter.

The Czechoslovak Foreign Institute sent via the Czech Embassy in Zagreb ten computers purchased by its members to J. Růžička´s Czech School in the Croatian village of Končenice. The transport from Zagreb to Končenice was arranged by the deputy of

CZECH&SLOVAK LEADERS I/2016

the Czech and the Slovak minorities in Croatia Vladimir Bílek. Together with the director of the school, Jaromír Vrabec he was also the first to try them.

With the participation of the chairman of the Czechoslovak Foreign Institute Jaromír Šlápota, the chairman of the Czechoslovak Foreign Institute in Bratislava Mgr. Radoslav Baran presented the financial gift to the Komenský School association in Vienna. It was another of the actions, by which the Institute systematically contributes to the improvement of technical equipment of expatriate schools in the world and ensure the quality of teaching. The association considers the Czechoslovak Foreign Institute its long-standing and most important partner. For many years, the students have the bilingual school

ČSÚZ laptops, copiers and other modern technical devices, Czech schools in Vienna were also given 13 interactive boards and 4 magic boxes.

At the end of the year, the members of the political club of the Czechoslovak Foreign Institute met several times to discuss the migration crisis. Participants in the debate have criticized the absence of effective migration policies of the EU and stated that the solution to the migration crisis will be a major election issue in the European countries. They anal-

ysed the situation in Syria stating that the end of the war in this country is possible only by negotiation between the elected Syrian government, the US and Russia.

In the Czechoslovak Foreign Institute, experts met to discuss the preservation of agricultural products in the state material reserves. The meeting took place at the invitation of a member of the Institute, the president of the Administration of State Material Reserves of the Czech Republic Ing. Paul Švagr, CSc.

On 12 September, the Chairman of the Masaryk Democratic Movement prof. MUDr. Michael Halaška, DrSc. (on the right) presented the honorary Masaryk´s Medal to the Chairman of the Czechoslovak Foreign Institute Jaromír Šlápota.

On 19 October, the Czechoslovak Foreign Institute sent ten computers to J. Růžička´s Czech School in the Croatian village of Končenice. The deputy of the Czech and the Slovak minorities in Croatia Vladimir Bílek (on the right) and the director of the school Jaromír Vrabec tried them as the first.

In December, a discussion was held with a member of the Czechoslovak Foreign Institute in Bratislava doc. JUDr. Radoslav Procházka, Ph.d., the candidate for the president in Slovak presidential election 2014 and the chairman of the new party SIEŤ, which will fight for parliamentary seats in this year’s Slovak parliamentary elections. Surveys of the preferences put that party on the second position.

On 30 September, all the participants enjoyed the Czech - Moravian Slovak - Slovak evening organized by the Vice President of the Czechoslovak Foreign Institute, senator Ivo Valenta together with the Slovak ambassador Peter Weissem and the mayor of Prague 6 Ondřej Kolář in the historic building of Villa Pellé in Prague 6.

On 5 October, the Chairman of the Czechoslovak Foreign Institute in Bratislava Mgr. Radoslav Baran (on the right) and the Chairman of the Komenský School Association in Vienna Ing. Karel Hanzl signed an agreement on the financial support to the Czech school.

On 3 December, experts on the preservation of agricultural products in the state material reserves met in the Czechoslovak Foreign Institute,. The meeting took place at the invitation of a member of the Institute, the President of the Administration of State Material Reserves of the Czech Republic Ing. Paul Švagr, CSc.

On 2 December, members and friends of the Czechoslovak Foreign Institute welcomed doc.

JUDr. Radoslav Procházka, Ph.d., the member of the Czechoslovak Foreign Institute in Bratislava who was the candidate for the president in Slovak presidential election 2014, at the discussion meeting.

From left: Ivo Valenta, Senator and H.E. Peter Weiss, Ambassador of the Slovak Republic at the opening of the Czech - Moravian Slovak - Slovak evening in the Pelle Villa

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P ersonal

enlightenment

Life Is Beautiful Part I: It’s All About Consciousness1,2 than three decades of founding and building companies and my personal quest for a balanced life with my search for the Meaning of Life. As it turns out, they are closely linked and deeply interrelated.

The questions that followed from this journey are profound, yet stimulating and at one time or another, many of us seek answers to them. I discovered 12 Universal Rules, which have provided me with guidance to the answers and can truly help to create a Beautiful Life for anyone. Here I provide a sampling of my findings.

James A. Cusumano, PhD “We are led to believe a lie, When we see with and not through the eye That was born in a night, to perish in a night, While the soul slept in beams of light.”

William Blake

KEY CONCEPTS: Consciousness is your true reality not what you perceive with your five senses.

There are three fundamental elements of consciousness, Personal Consciousness, Collective Consciousness and Cosmic Consciousness.

The three functioning areas of your mind are the conscious, subconscious and ego. Your subconscious mind is what you are, and your conscious mind is what you know.

Your ego is the source of all duality. It consistently maintains that you are a separate entity from all others in the universe and from your true reality, namely your Personal Consciousness. It is the source of all human conflict.

There are five specific steps, which when practiced properly, allow you to manifest nearly anything into your life.

Love is the most powerful force in the universe.

A higher ratio of feminine to masculine energies is required to address the critical global issues we currently face.

In my latest book, Life Is Beautiful: 12 Universal Rules, I have combined experiences from more

Consciousness –The Key to True Reality It has been proven beyond doubt by several research teams around the world that consciousness creates and “manages” all levels of your true reality: those that exist within hidden dimensions and are only accessible through deep meditation, as well as those you perceive as your observable “reality” through the limitations of your five senses. Your thoughts, inspirations, creativity, movements, i.e., your physical, intellectual and spiritual progression is made possible through the omnipotence (infinite potential), omniscience (infinite knowledge) and omnipresence (infinite eternal existence) of Cosmic Consciousness.

To be clear as to my meaning of the word spiritual, it has little to say about theology as expressed by organized religion. Instead, it refers to the non-material realm that extends infinitely and eternally beyond the material perception of our five senses. Specifically, spirituality is a process of personal transformation oriented on subjective experience and psychological growth independent of any specific religious context.

The totality of consciousness throughout the universe consists of Personal Consciousness (yours, mine, and that of others); Collective Consciousness, that which is associated with the intimate interaction of all physical entities in the universe; and Cosmic Consciousness, i.e., Universal Intelligence (see Figure 1). Paradoxically, all are separate and yet, intimately embraced by each other.

Your Three Minds There are three components of your mind; your conscious mind, which is the source of all your

logical analyses and decisions; your subconscious mind, which assures that you implement every task it receives from your conscious mind and from any other source, while your conscious mind is in a “sleep” state; and your ego, which is the source of all duality, i.e., it consistently maintains that you are a separate entity from all others and from your true reality, namely your Personal Consciousness. This is not the case, as all things are interconnected. Duality is the greatest source of human conflict and of all global challenges and calamities.

While you are alive, your Personal Consciousness orchestrates every physical, mental and spiritual activity that occurs within each cell of your body and within your mind. Life would be impossible without this capability. Personal Consciousness is intimately connected with Cosmic Consciousness or Universal Intelligence, and to varying degrees of intensity, to Collective Consciousness; all is connected. This assures that every thought and creative response you have comes from the infinite and returns to it, i.e., to Cosmic Consciousness. Those with a religious bent might be apt to call Cosmic Consciousness God, but labels here are unimportant.

Conceive And Create Conceiving of an idea or a thought and impressing that idea or thought on your subconscious leads to its manifestation or objectification. For better or for worse, our subconscious reasons deductively and is never concerned about morality, or the truth or falseness of a given premise that you may feed it through its interface with your conscious mind. It manifests into your life results that are consistent with the premises presented to it.

You subconscious mind is by far, greater and more important than your conscious mind. Your subconscious mind is what you are; your conscious mind is what you know. Using both of them as coordinated complements, you can create the life you seek.

Five Steps To Manifestation There are five steps to manifest with the least effort, those things that you seek as an intimate part of your life. Although some steps are more challenging than others, all are equally important for a suc-

1) EDITOR’S COMMENT—This is the first article in a new series based on the author’s forthcoming book, “Life Is Beautiful: 12 Universal Rules,” to be published November 2015 by Waterfront Digital Press, Cardiff California. 2) The author may be reached at Jim@ChateauMcely.Com.

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P ersonal

enlightenment

festation. People who fail to achieve their intended goals often rationalize by saying, “I must have done something incorrectly.” And they are right!

Figure 1: The totality of consciousness in the universe consists of Personal, Collective and Cosmic Consciousness.

cessful manifestation (see Figure 2). Briefly, they are: Attention – This is the first step in any personal transformation, and it always starts with a thought.

Placing your attention on exactly what you want in your world, whether it is love, prosperity, a job, improved health or anything else, will energize that object, the individuals associated with it, and as a consequence begin to draw it to you.

Intention – Intention is a crystal-clear specific vision of a desired outcome. Your intention starts with a thought, a clear understanding of something you would like to have happen. You must believe that you can obtain your goal, as long as it brings no harm to anyone or anything.

Imagination – Imagination is the next key step. It is one of the most powerful forces in human consciousness. You must imagine what you desire; and ultimately you must believe it to be true for it to enter your life.

Belief – It is not what you want that you attract into your life; it is what you believe to be true. To make the transition from imagination to belief you must feel the intense pleasure of having accomplished your goal. In quiet moments, best done in physical stillness immediately upon awakening from sleep, you must picture your accomplishment as achieved and revel in your success. It’s here already and it feels great!

Detachment – Now for the last and arguably the most difficult step, detachment. You might argue, “I have done all the work necessary to get this far, and now you want me to detach from the outcome?

Yes, and the reason is simple. If you don’t detach from the desired outcome, i.e., achieving your goal or objective, your logical mind can very easily fall back to the fear of failure. And fear is an all-powerful negative attractor. With practice, each of these steps can be carried out in a seamless path that requires minimal energy on your part, and always leads to success. Eventually, the time to manifestation becomes increasingly shorter to the point that the process in some circumstances can be achieved almost instantaneously.

The reason that people fail to achieve their desired goals by simply practicing “positive thinking” or what has become popularly known as “The Law of Attraction” is that these methods often do not disclose and explain the power and potential of the five specific steps, all necessary for successful maniFigure 2: The Five Steps to Manifestation can bring nearly anything into your life

A Confluence of Consciousness The cooperative interaction of the three fundamental elements of consciousness – Personal, Collective and Cosmic Consciousness – is the source of all intelligent activity in the universe. The intimacy, yet separateness of these three aspects of consciousness initiates and orchestrates every physical, mental and spiritual event that occurs in our universe. Everything occurs through the nonjudgmental action of the subconscious. Using the Five Steps for Manifestation in conjunction with intimate connectivity of the three elements of consciousness can bring nearly anything into your life.

The next step in human evolution is inevitable, and for the first time in our brief history, it can be a conscious choice. You can make that choice – YOU, your Self, i.e., your Personal Consciousness, which has now become aware of itself.

Love Is the Catalyst Love is the catalytic force that enables all things to interact for the benefit of the Whole as it navigates the evolutionary journey of consciousness towards ONENESS and UNITY. Perfect love is a deep combination of the following: collective awareness of, selfless concern and compassion for, cooperation with, and a commitment to all other entities in the universe.

Although love has sensual and sexual elements that have driven physical evolution, by far its most important function is to drive the evolution of consciousness by its focus on benefiting the Whole.

There is no other force in the universe that comes close to the potency of love in its impact on and necessity for the primary goal of universal existence – the evolutionary progression of Cosmic Consciousness--progression, not improvement – Cosmic Consciousness is already perfect. Love is the super-force that makes possible our eternal and elegant Cosmic Dance together.

Compassion and the Sacred Feminine Once we recognize the potential of consciousness on a personal level, if we are to reset humanity’s path on a sustainable trajectory, we must also recognize the critical need for a similar impact globally.

This will require greater output of feminine energies.

Addressing complex social challenges requires an appropriate dynamic balance between masculine and feminine energies. As social units progressed and evolved, an increasing ratio of feminine to masculine energies was required. This is due to humanity’s evolution from a primordial focus on protection from predators and provision of food, water and shelter, which is the domain of masculine energies, to a focus on intimate sensitivity to social and cultural complexities, the province of feminine energies. Our current world necessitates increased concern for human compassion, win-win negotiations, rapid intuitive assessment of complex systems and deep sensitivity to multidimensional social factors such as culture, gender, race and emotional intelligence. This is the domain of the “Sacred Feminine,” which is always committed to success of the Whole.

Both genders have elements of masculine and

Figure 3: Our current critical global issues require a greater ratio of feminine to masculine energies, i.e., The Sacred Feminine

feminine energies; however, women generally have a greater level of feminine energy and conversely for men. Regardless of which sex we consider, a much more intense level of feminine energy--the Sacred Feminine--will be necessary to address many of our global issues (see Figure 3).

The most significant damage that mankind--most especially organized religion and it socio-cultural successor, the corporation--have visited upon the world is the demise of the intuitive and creative presence of the Sacred Feminine. We must move to a much greater balance between feminine and masculine energies if we are to create sustainable positive outcomes to global threats such as nuclear proliferation, climate change, poverty, rampant pandemics, astronomical gaps in wealth and healthcare distribution and much more.

This is something that is within our power to do.

Since life began on Earth nearly four billion years ago, we are the first species to become totally aware of our consciousness and its potential. If we exercise this power wisely, life can truly be beautiful not simply on an individual basis, but also collectively as all peoples pursue an enriching journey together.

Sat, Chit, Ananda!

Enjoy your journey, make a difference!

About the Author James A. Cusumano (www.JamesCusumano.Com) is Chairman and Owner of Chateau Mcely (www.ChateauMcely.Com), chosen in 2007 by the European Union as the only “Green” 5-star luxury hotel in Central and Eastern Europe and in 2008 by the World Travel Awards as The World’s Leading Green Hotel.

It is home to Chateau Mcely Forum™ (www.

ChateauMcelyForum.Com) which offers programs that teach the principles of Inspired Leadership. He is a former Research Director for Exxon, and subsequently founded two public companies in Silicon Valley, one in clean power generation, the other in pharmaceuticals manufacture via environmentally-benign, low-cost, catalytic technologies. While he was Chairman and CEO, the latter – Catalytica Pharmaceuticals, Inc. – grew in less than 5 years, to a $1 billion enterprise with 2,000 employees.

He is coauthor of Freedom from Mid-East Oil (2007), and the author of Cosmic Consciousness – A Journey to Well-being, Happiness and Success (2011), BALANCE: The Business—Life Connection (2013) and Life Is Beautiful: 12 Universal Rules (2015).

An

interview with

J osef Ĺ venda , CEO, O racle C zech R epublic

On the ICT

as Means of Savings and on Prague More and More Attracting the Cloud 76

CZECH&SLOVAK LEADERS I/2016

An To non-ICT experts, the title might seem to be an oxymoron. However, the interview with Mr. Josef Švenda allowed me not only to address the trends in IT (for the experts rather ICT, stressing the combination of information and communication technologies) for the upcoming year but also improve the traditional dark image of the Czech Republic portrayed by the media as the country of cheap labour for assembly lines. On January 14, a unique press conference, synchronised across the region, took place, where Oracle announced the launch of a Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) Recruitment drive to add 1400 new cloud sales professionals. In addition to Prague, new hires will be based in the five following locations: Amsterdam (the Netherlands), Cairo and Dubai (the Middle East), Dublin (Ireland) and Malaga (Spain). For the Czech Republic specifically, this will mean at least 100 new sales professionals who will help fuel growth in the Oracle’s cloud business. The press conference also marked the presence of Mr. Karel Kučera, General Director of CzechInvest, who was pleased with the growing trend in the CzechUS commercial exchange. From the point of view of a Czech citizen, it was interesting to hear that despite the fact that Oracle has not received any direct incentives for being based in Prague, it still sees Prague as an important regional location. The second reason was the fact that jobs for cloud sales experts will be followed by more expert positions of IT developers and so Prague managed to create new roles having a high added value on the market.

The remark from Mr. Švenda regarding the fantastic opportunity that Central Europe represents for both Oracle and for the cloud is not an understatement together with his belief that the cloud is perfect for supporting the rapid growth of agile and innovative businesses in the Czech Republic and Central Europe.

For me personally, this was a meeting with Mr. Švenda after a quarter of a century, which for him came as a surprise. During my highschool years, I was working as a hostess for the most prestigious IT exhibition called Computer Graphics and Mr. Švenda happened to be one of my first bosses, at that time leading Axiom company and presenting a revolutionary solution called Bernoulli box, a removable floppy disc. As you can imagine, from the IT perspective, it was the prehistory and after 25 years, I was pleased to reflect not only on the advance of the industry but also of the career of Mr. Švenda.

Mr. Švenda, we are meeting at the beginning of the New Year, so allow me to start with a personal question. What are your new year´s resolutions for the upcoming year?

Actually, I have none. For a long time I have been pursuing the way to concentrate not on big resolutions but rather on constant, day-to-day improvements. Every morning I try to find one particular issue that I can handle in a different and better way than I have so far.

And now back to the ICT sector. What are the main trends that you see relevant for the Czech and Slovak Republic for 2016?

interview with

J osef Š venda , CEO, O racle C zech R epublic

I am glad that our countries continue to be undoubtedly a part of the Western world, so the trends in IT are the same ones as the ones in advanced countries. 2016 will be marked by the trend called Digital Disruption. Such phenomenon will influence almost every enterprise in every industry. The companies that are the most progressive are making their choices whether they wish to be “the disruptor” or they are preparing to be those to be “disrupted”. The power of Digital Disruption emerges as a culmination of five major trends that will reach its peak this year; these are: Big Data representing exponential growth of different data sources, Mobility in terms of digital data being able to be produced and consumed anytime anywhere, Social Networks as new means how to start a digital dialogue with customers, Internet of Things standing for data created by machines to be used by other machines and last but not least the Cloud as a flexible and elastic IT platform, enabling development and running of applications enabling the very phenomenon of Digital Disruption.

When you joined the company three years ago, you have compared Oracle to a roaring new red Ferrari. What does it feel like driving the Ferrari for three years?

It has been demanding as such a car does not allow for making mistakes. However, at the same time, you get to enjoy a lot of excitement.

As mentioned above, it looks like Prague is profiting from the Cloud. You have just mentioned new positions to be open with regards to cloud sales.

We are very glad that Prague has become a recipient of such an investment from Oracle. In order to offer so many jobs, Oracle has to invest quite significant resources into research and development of both products and services -these amount to 5 billion USD annually and also depend on the success on the customers‘ side. We are proud that Prague is perceived as a suitable location for high-tech centres such as ours. Our plans are ambitious and I believe that more than one hundred of new sales professionals will accelerate Oracle’s growth even further.

Few years ago, the experts were divided into two categories – those who supported cloud and those who were against. Now, cloud looks like a panacea. However, are there any other trends and solutions that leaders should be aware of?

I have already mentioned five significant trends (Big Data, Mobility, Internet of Things, Social Networks and Cloud); nevertheless, I would add one more and that is security which in reality runs through the main IT trends and to a large extent it can decide about existence or non-existence of companies in current digital era. Business leaders should pay a great deal of attention to security and choose partners that are well aware of the risks coming from digitalisation and are ready for them.

Another phenomenon worth mentioning is the interest of big IT companies to provide services for small and medium enterprises (SMEs). Thanks to the cloud solutions SMEs can afford modern systems that might significantly advance their performance.

But doesn’t it resemble a situation when Goliath is giving his advice to David?

Perhaps, but it is worth noting that even Oracle started as David years ago and for many new companies it can be now an example and a source of good advice. I do not think that there are many companies who wish to stay small forever.

Let’s talk about investments in the public sector. When I did an interview with Jan Muehlfeit a few years ago, he admitted that investments in IT not always translated into the growth of performance. Has the situation changed?

ICT technologies have an enormous potential for the efficient running of public sector. But as it is the case with other investments, such potential might not be fulfilled for different reasons. I cannot say whether the situation in the public sector is improving, but I can clearly see the potential of ICT to improve lives of citizens and the entrepreneurial environment and we will definitely try to achieve that.

It looks like that you do not complain about the lack of students interested in technologies and given the number of acquisitions you do not mention that there is a lack of companies suitable for co-operation. Is it thanks to the industry of are you an optimist?

Or is it perhaps that our industry attracts lifeoptimists?

Mr. Švenda, can I ask you for the final words for Czech and Slovak Leaders?

Since we started on the new year’s theme, I would like to wish everyone plenty of success, both in their professional and private life in the upcoming year.

Are you the right candidate for Oracle? By the way, you do not need to have IT background but rather business drive and experience.

And by the way, Oracle is also looking for talented women. Let me quote Loic Le Guisquet, President of Oracle.

“I want socially savvy, switched on individuals who can help customers respond to the digital imperative and make their businesses future proof. We are looking for people who want to be relevant to the biggest trends shaping business and technology.” http://experience.oracle.com

By Linda Štucbartová české znění naleznete v elektronické verzi magazínu na www.czechleaders.com

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G ala

In

evening

cooperation with

C zech & S lovak L eaders From left: Milan Němec, Deputy Governor, Václav Hybš, Musician, and Zuzana Moravčíková, Deputy Governor

Representative Ball of Central Bohemian Region The Representative Ball of Central Bohemian Region on 16 th January was an extraordinary event – for the first time in the historical building of Jesuit College in a magical town of Kutná Hora. There were two dance floors accompanied with famous Václav Hybš ´s Orchestra.

Lush programme including dance show, singing show of the Czech well known singer Josef Vojtek and delicious food, culminated with rich tombola. The Ball was organised under the auspices of the governor of Central Bohemian Region Miloš Petera.

Miloš Petera, Governor of Central Bohemian Region during the raffle

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Josef Vojtek, famous Czech Singer

From left: Roland Leisztner, Developer, Jana Šorfová, Director, Gallery GASK, and Helena Leisztner, Artist

Robert Georgiev, Director, Central Bohemian Office with Markéta Tomčíková, Central Bohemian Office

CZECH&SLOVAK LEADERS I/2016

The musicians – from left: Václav Hybš and Karel Vágner

The evening was hosted by a famous actress Yvetta Blanarovičová and accompanied with Václav Hybš´s Orchestra.

From left: Jana Šorfová, Director, Gallery, GASK and Miloš Petera, Governor of Central Bohemian Region

Milan Němec, Deputy Governor on the left with friends

Miloš Petera, Governor of Central Bohemian Region on the right with dancers

Marek Semerád, Deputy Governor with his wife

From left: Jana Šorfová, Director, Gallery GASK with friends enjoying the evening

From left: Jana Šorfová, Director, Gallery, GASK, Zuzana Moravčíková, Deputy Governor with a friend, and Markéta Tomčíková, Central Bohemian Office

From left: Jana Šorfová, Director, Gallery, GASK and Miloš Petera, Governor of Central Bohemian Region

From left: Markéta Tomčíková, Central Bohemian Office, Jana Šorfová, Director, Gallery, GASK, and Mrs. Bartušková, GASK

CZECH&SLOVAK LEADERS I/2016

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E xhibition

In

cooperation

with

C zech & S lovak L eaders

MARIANNA GARTNER 5. 10. – 29. 11. 2015 Opening Ceremony in the MIRO Gallery Prague and the following after party in the Savoy Hotel Photographer: Oto Palán

Benke Aikell, your Publisher with Tereza Urbánková, PR and Communication Expert, Head of Global Communications, Amec Wheeler plc and Contributor to Czech Leaders

From left: PhDr. MgA. Miro Smolák, Owner and Director, MIRO Gallery Prague, Marianna Gartner, Artist, and H. E. Otto Jelinek, Ambassador, Embassy of Canada, Prague

From left: Alicja Huziuk-Raith, General Manager, Hotel Savoy Prague, Tomas Hülle, President, Czech China Entrepreneurs Forum, Mgr. Alexei Filonov, and Ing. Natalia Filonova, European Investment Holding Inc. Jitka Hosprová, famous Czech Viola Soloist

Zufar Talgatovič Abdulgaleev, Permanent Representative of the Republic of Tatarstan in the Czech Republic and Slovak Republic with his wife Rozaliya Abdulgaleeva

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CZECH&SLOVAK LEADERS I/2016

From left: Mgr. Petr Šťastný, Seddons s.r.o., Ilona Oesterreicher, ŠAFRA & PARTNERS, and Mgr. Petr Rudlovčák, ŠAFRA & PARTNERS

E xhibition

From left: Vlasta Hemalová, Culture Manager, Ing. Natalia Filonova, European Investment Holding Inc., Alena Miro, Opera Singer, and Alexander Hemala, TV Moderator and Broadcaster From left: Ulf Landeberg, Director, Lindner Hotel Prague Castle, Benke Aikell, your Publisher, and Tatiana Dandarová, Savoy Hotel Prague

From left: Jitka Hosprová, famous Czech Viola Soloist, Alena Miro, Opera Singer, and Maurizio Sciarretta, famous Italian Viola Soloist

František Havrila, Manager, TV OČKO and Petra Kratochvílová, Sales Director, TV OČKO From left: Gabor Csakany, Marianna Gartner’s husband and Artist and Dieter Schuck, Art Historian, Berlin

From left: Gao Hua, Cultural Counsellor, Embassy of the People’s Republic of China to the Czech Republic and Alicja Huziuk-Raith, General Manager, Hotel Savoy Prague

From left: Prof. Ludwig Feller, Artist, Kunsthochschule Berlin and Ulrike Pok, Art Historian, Berlin

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E xhibition

From left: Mgr. Alexei Filonov and Ing. Natalia Filonova, European Investment Holding Inc., Alicja Huziuk-Raith, General Manager, Hotel Savoy Prague, and PhDr. MgA. Miro Smolák, Owner and Director, MIRO Gallery Prague From left: Vlastimil Harapes, Actor, Ballet Dancer, Director and Choreographer and Tomáš Engel, Member of the Board, Dejvické divadlo Prague

From left: Oyuntuya Oyunjargal, Culture Manager, Michael Haas, Owner, Michael Haas Gallery Berlin, and Dr. Gunnar Enghusen, Attorney, Berlin

From left: MUDr. Helena Nekulová, Šárka Litvinová, Asiana, spol. s r.o., and JUDr. Rudolf Tomašovič, Attorney From left: Lenka Bulejová, Art Collector and Mrs. Světlana Pastorová

From left: Ing. František Kovács, CSc., PERITIA Company and Anna Eltsova, GRADE Life Style Magazine

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CZECH&SLOVAK LEADERS I/2016

From left: MUDr. Martin Papáč, Military Hospital in Střešovice, Mgr. Alexei Filonov, European Investment Holding Inc., and Miloš Jaro, Agency Miloš Jaro

O racle

press conference

Oracle Launches EMEA Recruitment Drive To Add 1,400 New Cloud Sales Professionals

From left: Josef Švenda, Country Leader, Oracle Czech and Karel Kučera, CEO, Czech Invest

Oracle has announced a Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) recruitment drive to hire 1,400 new cloud sales professionals who will play a vital role in fuelling growth of the company’s cloud business throughout the region.

The recruitment drive includes growth in Prague where Oracle will be investing in 100 new positions and state-of-the-art offices. Further new hires will be based in five other locations: Amsterdam (The Netherlands); Cairo and Dubai (Middle East); Dublin (Ireland) and Malaga (Spain).

In addition to hiring the very best talent from the above locations, Oracle is looking for recruits with a range of experience from across the EMEA region, from highly motivated sales professionals with two to three years’ experience to highly experienced senior sales professionals.

The move to recruit 1,400 new cloud sales professionals into its EMEA inside sales operations follows a multi-billion dollar investment from Oracle in developing the most complete portfolio of cloud computing services. Oracle’s cloud technologies deliver everything from secure computing infrastructure to best-in-class enterprise cloud applications. Oracle currently offers more than 600 different cloud applications which combined with its comprehensive on-premise hardware and software offering, creates the opportunity to help organisations seamlessly manage their overall enterprise computing environment while helping them with their transition to the cloud. Over the past six months, Oracle added nearly 1,500 new software as a service (SaaS) customers and more than 2,100 platform as a service (PaaS) customers.

From left: Marta Lipovská, PR Manager, Oracle Czech, Josef Švenda, Country Leader, Oracle Czech and Karel Kučera, CEO, CzechInvest at the press conference

CZECH&SLOVAK LEADERS I/2016

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An

interview with

A ndrej H ryc ,

popular

S lovak

actor and director

Please, help me return the synagogue to Bratislava!

P hoto : J uraj B ončo , R oman D elikát , A rchive

84

CZECH&SLOVAK LEADERS I/2016

An

interview with

A ndrej H ryc ,

popular

Demolition 1969

In 1969, the well-known Slovak actor Andrej Hryc, was a second-year student at the Department of Acting at the Academy of Performing Arts in Bratislava. His role model, the beloved Slovak actor, ass. prof.

Ladislav Chudík, who had admitted him to his class two years before that, was already being punished for having defected in August 68 to Austria, which the incoming “normalization” communist establishment used to ban him from media appearances, as well as from teaching at the Academy.

On Saturday morning of April 12, 1969, Andy Hryc was walking along the derelict Židovská Street (Jewish Street) in Bratislava to the Hall of Performing Arts in Kapitulská Street, for regular on-stage acting lesson, when his attention was caught by an unusual image on the Rybné (Fish) Square.

An excavator was attacking with its heavy bucket the magnificent building of the Jewish Neologist Synagogue from the late 19th century and smashing its left tower, a home to a Slovak Television studio until only a few weeks before. As well as more than 300 other houses in this area, the Jewish Synagogue also presented an “obstacle” for architects of the new Bratislava landmark - the Bridge of the Slovak National UprisPhoto visualisation

ing that forever destroyed, cut off the area below the castle and separated it from the rest of the Bratislava’s Old Town. All wars that raged through the city combined did not cause as much irreparable historical damage to the Slovak capital, as this Communist urbanistic crime.

Hryc sat down on a stone, with tears of furious helplessness streaming down his disbelieving face, and did not go to school on that day. He spent the following weekend sitting in front of the Baroque House of the Good Shepherd, watching this unprecedented demolition. On Monday, the synagogue was gone. And, it was as if no one noticed anything, as if nothing had happened.

Sitting across from me, sipping coffee, is the founder of legendary Radio Twist, a popular Slovak actor and director, Seychelles’ Honorary Consul in the Slovak Republic – Andrej Hryc.

Andy, at a recent press conference, you introduced to the Slovak public a project which stunned Bratislava with its exceptionality.

S lovak

actor and director

late 1960s in the Slovak television studio, located there at the time, I appeared in my first television production, the name of which I don’t remember unfortunately. I began thinking about it and then talking to people who are close to me.

With my friend Karol Kállay, one of the leading Slovak architects, we found in archives of the city of Bratislava the original plans by architect Dezso Milch from 1893. We took the tape measure and went to survey the Rudnay Square. When we discovered that there is enough space to build a 100% replica of the synagogue, the idea got real contours.

What followed?

I presented this idea of mine to several close friends: sculptor Juraj Čutek, professor of economics, former Vice-chancellor of the University of Economics in Bratislava Juraj Stern and worldrenowned neurologist Paľo Traubner – the outcome of our discussions was the founding of a civic association.

What is the mission of your association?

The association’s name is “We’ll bring the Synagogue back to Bratislava”. It has a single objective – to return to Bratislava the symbol of religious tolerance, so much needed in these days. I admit that this is a high aspiration, but I like challenges. Our association does not want to build a place of Jewish worship. The synagogue will serve the people of Bratislava and the general public as a multifunctional cultural facility and at the same time it will be a permanent reminder of the “disappearance” of one of Bratislava’s communities. It will be a Holocaust memorial. The names of all seven thousand Jewish citizens, who were deported from our city to the concentration camp, will be engraved in the marble wall of the “old-new” Synagogue, to commemorate, at least symbolically, their return Historic view of Fish Market

Since I live nearby, I walk very often across the former Fish, today’s Rudnay Square. It is where my son Hugo took his first steps and where my two grandsons are running around today. I witnessed the demolition of an exceptional monument the Jewish Neologist Synagogue in Bratislava, which had stood here at the base of the Catholic Gothic cathedral opposite the Orthodox St. Nicholas Church and which was slowly turning into a pile of bricks. For years it was a symbol of our city’s religious tolerance and even though I am not Jewish, I miss it very much to this day. I was able to overcome many of my life’s problems by remembering those unfortunate people who ended up in the Holocaust’s gas chambers. Compared to their suffering and tragedy, all my life’s problems always looked like a fun fair. For more than 40 years I’ve been carrying the memory of this event and one day in the evening, when I returned home, it occurred to me whether it would be possible to rebuild that interesting yellow house built in a Moorish style, where in the

CZECH&SLOVAK LEADERS I/2016

85

An

interview with

A ndrej H ryc ,

popular

S lovak

actor and director

Bolek Polívka and Andrej Hryc in legendary TV series Černí baroni

to Bratislava, as a reminder of the absurdity of the persecution of people of a different race, ethnic origin and religion or political affiliation. I believe that we will achieve our objective.

What is the timetable of your plan, and what is its budget?

We would like to complete our project over the next four years. We have two years to raise the necessary funds. Our budget estimate is five million Euros.

Where do you want to find funding for such an ambitious project?

The Ministry of the Interior of the Slovak Republic granted us a permit to conduct a public collection. Our initiative was sponsored by all Slovak telecom operators, by organising telephone number 875 for donations via SMS, costing one Euro. We obtained patronage of the Mayor of Bratislava Mr. Ivo Nesrovnal and the Embassy of Israel. Of course, I’m not naive to think that we will be able to raise the full amount this way only. We count on support from the state, public funds, various sponsors and we will also approach international foundations and trusts. Every form of help is welcomed. Please, join me and help return the Synagogue to Bratislava!

I believe that your initiative will soon receive a positive reaction from people who appreciate this noble story of a symbolic return of Chatam sofer memorial inside

86

the Holocaust victims to their home town and that they will desire to take part in this effort.

I am deeply convinced of this; after all, for centuries Bratislava had, until the WWII, a very strong Jewish community that made significant contribution to the development of this city. Bratislava was home to perhaps the most famous Jewish school, founded by notable Rabbi Moses Schreiber, known in the world as Moshe Sofer or ChatamSofer. Sofer is buried in Bratislava and in 2002 his crypt at the Old Jewish Cemetery was renovated, serving since as a ritual and pilgrimage place of worship for Jews travelling from around the world to pay their respects. The ChatamSofer Mausoleum is less than 500 m from the original place where we want to rebuild the Synagogue.

Does this mean that this new initiative pushes your acting and artistic ambitions aside?

Certainly not. On the contrary. All participants are donating their time and expertise working for the association. All funds raised are dedicated exclusively towards construction of the synagogue.

Therefore I cannot give up my artistic activities, since the pension, to maintain a proper standard of living hmm, somehow is not enough. Despite the fact that I am approaching 70, I cannot complain about lack of acting work. I’m constantly busy in the Czech Republic, as well as Slovakia.

In Prague, I’m appearing in a theatre; at home I am currently shooting a new series for TV JOJ, called the Zoo and preparing for a major new film opportunity in the upcoming project of my daughter Wanda, who is the producer and co-author of a long feature Slovak film called the LINE, a story unfolding on the Slovak - Ukrainian border about smuggling flourishing in all its forms and local authorities looking the other way. A young policeman with peculiar methods arrives there, with a secret mission to convict the real culprits - his police colleagues. I look forward very much to working with leading Slovak actors, such as Emilia Vašáryová, Zuzana Fialová, Alexander Barta, Dano Fisher, Eugen Libezňuk or Milan

CZECH&SLOVAK LEADERS I/2016

Ondrík. The movie’s story is highly topical, the script is excellent and I believe that the result will be remarkable....

Well, it seems that “the apple does not fall far from the tree”..... I said goodbye to a man full of energy and determination, who for one moment does not accept even one percent of a possibility that this most unique and ambitious project would not go ahead. His whole life, artistic career, his influence and last but not least his diplomatic contacts convince me that in about four years Bratislava will be greeting every traveller from Vienna and elsewhere with a majestic view of a newly rebuilt unique monument.

I am saying good-bye to Andy with feelings of humility, reverence and deep respect for the victims of the Holocaust, whose names remind us of “memento mori” and thanks to his determination I am already looking forward to the skyline of Bratislava which will be completed and highlighted by the synagogue and its majesty.

I promise to Andy that I will do my best for the synagogue to return it back to the site from which it was removed. Will you, dear readers, join us and help in our effort to bring the synagogue back to Bratislava? www.bratislavskasynagoga.sk

By Eva Anderová české znění naleznete v elektronické verzi magazínu na www.czechleaders.com

E xhibition

Eileen Cooper RA BETWEEN THE LINES / MEZI ŘÁDKY

From left: Petr Štěpán, Art Historian, Miro Smolák, Owner and Director, MIRO Gallery Prague, and Mrs. Eileen Cooper, Artist

Opening ceremony in the MIRO Gallery Prague and after party at Hotel Savoy Prague, 14. 1. – 28. 2. 2016 Eileen Cooper is a Painter, Printmaker, and Keeper of the Royal Academy in London



pro web-tiskoviny A3, max Roll Up atd.



Billboardy, autoplachty, plachty



From left: Helena Leisztner, Artist, Benke Aikel, your Publisher, and Eva Anderová, former Deputy Minister of Finance, now Business Consultant with Czech & Slovak Leaders

Mila Fürstová, Artist and Miro Voštiar, Art Collector and Businessman

From left: Jana Otahalová, Pianist, student of Irina Parker, Irina Parker, famous Pianist, Ian Parker, Lawyer, and Stanislav Vaněk, TV Director

with From left: Alicja Huziuk - Raith, General Manager, Hotel Savoy Prague, Miro Smolák, Owner and Director, MIRO Gallery Prague, and Roman Martinásek, Co-Owner, Vinařství Krist Milotice

C zech

I n cooperation & S lovak L eaders

From left: Petra Plachá, Businesswoman, Karel Srp, Artforum – Jazz Section, and Soňa Žídková, Artist

CZECH&SLOVAK LEADERS I/2016

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From left: Mrs. Barbora Benešová, Helena Leisztner, Artist, Ulf Landeberg, General Manager, Hotel Lindner Prague, and Eva Anderová, former Deputy Minister of Finance, now Business Consultant to Czech & Slovak Leaders

From left: Roman Martinásek, Co-Owner, Vinařství Krist Milotice and Miloš Jaro, Businessman and former diplomat

From left: Václav Šilhavý, Businessman, Jiřina Víchová, Owner, Flowers for health, Šárka Litvinová, Asiana, spol. s r.o., Alicja Huziuk - Raith, General Manager, Hotel Savoy Prague, and Alexej Litvin, Asiana, spol. s r.o.

From left: Miro Smolák, Owner and Director, MIRO Gallery Prague, Eileen Cooper, Artist, Míla Fürstová, Artist, and Malcolm Cooper, Graphic Designer and Animator

From left: MUDr. Michal Sičák, MBA with his wife and MUDr. Martin Papáč with his wife From left: Jaromír Schling, former Minister of Transportation and Peter Foltinský, Director, Nordisk Transport Rail AB - z

From left: Štěpán Rusňák, Executive Director, Pražská paroplavební společnost a.s., Mrs. Vlasta Hemalová, Olga Lanberg, General Director, Portal of psychological services Ltd, Oksana Derevyanko, RT Channel, Head of Business Program department, and Alexander Hemala, TV Speaker

From left: Mgr. Petr Rudlovčák, ŠAFRA & PARTNERS, Ilona Oesterreicher, ŠAFRA & PARTNERS, Renata Drábková, Artist, and Petr Štěpán, Art Historian From Left: Václav Šilhavý, Businessman and Jozef Gáfrik, Journalist

From left: Alicja Huziuk - Raith, General Manager, Hotel Savoy Prague and H.E. Liliana De Olarte, Ambassador of Peru

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CZECH&SLOVAK LEADERS I/2016

From left: Anne Kansanoja, Attaché, Embassy of Finland Prague with her husband and Alicja Huziuk - Raith, General Manager, Hotel Savoy Prague

From left: Alexander Hemala, TV Speaker with his wife Vlasta, Lubomír Kovařík, General Manager, Česká zbrojovka a.s., and Růžena Nechanská, Businesswoman

Mrs. Marta Kovaříková and Alexander Hemala, TV Speaker

From left: Josef Wágner with his wife, both Artists, and Michael Svoboda, Businessman and Art Collector

From left: Varhan Orchestrovič Bauer, Composer and Conductor, Ivo Gajdoš, Executive Director, CMA, and Emma Součková, Art Historian

MUDr. Ivan Matouš Mahlbohan and Emilie Millerová, wife of Zdeněk Miller, Author of world-famous Mole From left: Gérard Gratadour, Photographer and Roman Martinásek, Co-Owner, Vinařství Krist Milotice

From left: Iva Říhová, PR Manager, Kovosvit MAS, Miro Smolák, Owner and Director, MIRO Gallery Prague, and Martina Opava, Foundation LA VIDA

From left: Jan Černý, Law Office ČERNÝ-RAUPACHOVÁ, Pavel Číčel, Evangelic Church, Jan Hadraba, Journalist, and Mr. Viliam Paulini From left: Petr Kužel, Director, Consulting s.r.o. and Vladimír Drábek, Prague International Marathon

From left: Peter Foltinský, Director, Nordisk Transport Rail AB – z, Ljudmila Lushkina, Businesswoman, and Miroslav Madzák, Businessman

From left: Michael Svoboda, Businessman and Art Collector, Karel Michal, Radio Free Europe, and Pavel Novotný, Advisory Manager of Swiss Life Select

CZECH&SLOVAK LEADERS I/2016

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An

interview with

R upert S imoner , CEO, V ienna H ouse

On Viennese Tradition,

Legacy and Journey to Modernity Preparing for an interview with Rupert Simoner, CEO Vienna House (formerly Vienna International), made me reflect on the past and brought my mind back to the history of the Austro-Hungarian Empire when Vienna used to be the second largest Czech city in the Monarchy. It also made me reflect on the proximity and closeness of the Czechs and Austrians that I have experienced while working for the Diplomatic Academy Prague and closely co-operating with the Diplomatic Academy in Vienna. However, after I became familiar with the current project of rebranding, characterised by the outburst of creativity and joyful communication, I realised there is no space for the sentiment of the past but on the contrary, time for enjoyment and zest for life. I felt quite invigorated discussing strategy, values, diversity and energy.

P hoto : A rchive

It is my pleasure to introduce you to Rupert Simoner, CEO, Vienna House.

Mr. Simoner, the current rebranding seems Vienna International Hotelmanagement AG – in 2016 repositioned as Vienna House – looks back at more than 26 years of success, during which it has focused on building and expanding its portfolio of hotels in the three to five star segment. CEO Rupert Simoner is proud of the group and the vast hotel portfolio it has built up during its 26 years of existence. Currently, the group consists of 38 hotels, six in Czech Republic, four hotel lines and 2,200 employees operating in ten countries: from France to Russia, from Poland to Austria. They include the top tourist destinations such as Berlin, Prague, Pilsen, Carlsbad, Bucharest, Coburg, Krakow, Lodz, Munich, Neckarsulm, Trier, Disneyland® Paris and Bratislava.

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like a remarkable major change. What is the reason behind the change of Vienna International, in Prague perceived as an established brand, to Vienna House?

Currently, the hotel market is in a state of flux which is providing us with a number of challenges.

Today’s guests have excellent access to the most up-to-date information. Their thinking and actions are global, local and mobile at the same time, and they have a steadily increasing selection of options to choose from.

At the same time, people’s understanding of value is undergoing a transformation. Traditional values such as luxury, in view of expensive status symbols, star categorisations and standards, are being replaced by personal, unique and, above all, oneof-a-kind experiences. People’s self-image has become more value-conscious than status-oriented.

Following the trend reports of the hotel industry and implementing these with a healthy dose of common sense gives rise to the following formula - living brand values together with acting from the guest’s perspective while keeping it simple.

CZECH&SLOVAK LEADERS I/2016

As such, we have had to change the areas with regards to our corporate culture, restructure corporate divisions, reposition ourselves by developing and communicating a clear new brand architecture and last but not least redesign all hotel divisions and realign standards to guests’ requirements.

I see the statement “Values need to make sense from the inside out and be easy to understand” being very fundamental to any company. Nevertheless, from my experience working with teams, only few employees can recite values and even smaller amount can explain them. How will you make sure that your values will be thriving not surviving?

A new corporate culture only works when it is accepted and lived from the inside. All employees were informed about the development steps in the beginning and have been kept up-to-date with regular news from myself and my management board colleagues, hotel directors and direct management in open feedback discussions. National and international workshops provided additional support for the process.

An

It is essential that values make sense from the inside out, be easy to understand and easily implemented into our working life which means that they must be lived from above. We took this decision together and we continue to work on what this means for each individual.

We developed a “roadmap” for our new self-image of Vienna House which translates our core values into daily actions and in a simple and understandable way explains what optimal guest feedback, employee conduct, work environment and management understanding look like at Vienna House.

When rebranding takes place, it is often the case that regions are lagging behind headquarters but Prague is not that far from Vienna. What specific plans do you have for the Czech Republic? What can clients look forward to?

We are a hotel group and hotels are the heart of our business no matter what the location is. All our Czech hotels will be rebranded, so you will see Vienna House Diplomat, andel’s by Vienna Prague, angelo by Vienna House Prague, Vienna House Easy Chopin Prague, angelo by Vienna House Pilsen and Vienna House Dvorak Karlovy Vary.

The most significant changes will be applied step by step and affect the following areas. Hotel staff in new uniforms will have very broad freedom of action. Open lobby with a living-room or lounge atmosphere will allow for the work-life blend trend since this is where business and leisure meet so you will see co-working areas, lounge corners, an integrated bar and a free-standing reception.

Current trends in mobility will be facilitated by bicycle stations, electric car charging points and carpool stations.

The use of new techniques and technologies true to the motto of “simple and intelligent”, such as charging points on all tables, USB ports in all rooms and web. Last but not least, the trend of (g)localisation will be seen in new individual bar and restaurant concepts that will serve also local specialities matching the region were the hotel is located.

I was surprised about the digital shift and the impact that it makes on the hotel industry. You have already mentioned several services making use of ICT, such as mobile check-in and check-out, mobile concierge services, USB ports, free high-

interview with

R upert S imoner , CEO, V ienna H ouse

speed Wi-Fi and other services. Besides digitalisation, are there any other trends in the hotel industry that you see emerging?

There are several micro trends which of course affect lifestyle movements, such as sustainability and corporate social responsibility. In some areas – especially in the service and hotel industry, we can observe that people wish to have personal contacts instead of machines.

Further, there is a trend to concentrate on simple but quality things. More and more European travellers are sensitive to the environmental issues and therefore they are trying to live and also travel in an eco-friendly way.

And one attitude can be seen through many levels: buying moments instead of buying things is getting more and more important in our world as everything happens faster and faster.

The next concept we are both passionate about is diversity. You understand it in quite broad definition, not only acknowledging the diversity of the different hotels with all their regional tastes and peculiarities but also diversity of staff and members. How do you deal with diversity of talent and who are your target employees? Many companies now try to target women or young people. What is your approach?

Hospitality is about exploring, being curious and it is about people. It is a great place for people where they grow and shine and where they feel the whole world belongs to them.

On one hand, Vienna House offers a niche between small private hotels and large – perhaps more anonymous – chain hotels. This may provide an opportunity for many. We offer international career paths our hotels and broad experience opportunities in our hotels. On the other hand, we have established ourselves as personal and direct. Employees can be themselves, they don’t have to pretend anything and feel like they are wearing a mask. We offer proper training programmes, promotions and a personal work environment.

Thanks to the Vienna House Academy, the HR division provides extensive new training and development programmes for all company employees. These include: Executive Development 360°, cooperation with 20 universities in 12 countries, a global departmental trainer

structure and introduction of the Victor Leadership Development Programme for specifically developing young leaders.

I have aluded to the Austro-Hungarian Empire and its legacy several times. According to experts on Czech-Austrian relations, both nations tend to be quite similar and that might be irritating. How do you personally view Czech-Austrian current political, business and interpersonal relations?

Why irritating? As you mentioned, we share big parts of history, we have many things in common. The same is true about food. I love Czech beer and so do many Austrians. The Czechs as well as the Austrians are very hospitable. So on the cultural level there is a huge similarity that makes approaching both nations easy. Moreover, this good common understanding affects political, business as well as interpersonal Czech-Austrian relations in a positive way.

Mr. Simoner, you are always smiling, are in a good mood and positive. To me, you are a perfect example of the new approach to work-life blend rather than work-time management. Can you share some secrets of time and energy management with us?

Work-life balance is important to me and so I also make sure that my team members have time for their families, friends, hobbies and sports. I strongly believe that people are much more efficient if they have also a private life.

Therefore, I trust them and I can fully rely on my employees. This makes my time and energy management possible.

Your creative campaign has inspired my imagination and made me think outside the box. Instead of the typical question what your final words for Czech and Slovak Leaders are, I will ask if there is a question that you wanted to answer but no journalist has ever asked?

I can’t think of one single questions I was never asked – but I like your last question very much.

By Linda Štucbartová české znění naleznete v elektronické verzi magazínu na www.czechleaders.com

CZECH&SLOVAK LEADERS I/2016

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G ala

evening

In

cooperation with

C zech & S lovak L eaders

FACE OF THE

From left: Josef Rynda, Regional Director, Erste Premier and Erste Private Banking, Sponsor, Ing. Jan Havel, Branch Manager, Erste Premier, Sponsor, Ing. Pavlína Jirmannová, Board Member, FNMWA, Ing. Pavla Kalousová, Writer, Chairwoman, FNMWA, Bc. Martina Klemensová, CSO, Aqua Angels Europe, Sponsor, Martin Grmolec, Partner, Vins de France, Sponsor, Michaela Dúcká, Fashion Designer, Face of the Year 15, Ing. Helena Kroftová Leisztner, Artist, Vice Chairwoman, FNMWA, Eliška Hašková Coolidge, Founder, Emeritus Board Member, FNMWA, Ing. arch. Iva Drebitko, Chairwoman, Triga, Board Member, FNMWA, Ing. Vladimíra Václavíková, Member, FNMWA, Ing. Andrea Palánová, Couch, Member, FNMWA, Ing. Lenka Dušková, Luxent, Board Member, FNMWA, JUDr. Kateřina Krylová, Lawyer, Board Member, FNMWA, and Tamar Newberger, wife of the US Ambassador in Prague.

Annual award of Friends of the National Museum of Women in the Arts, Czech Republic in cooperation with NMWA in Washington has been granted this year to young and talented fashion designer Michaela Dúcká during the ceremony held at Marble Hall of Česká spořitelna.

From left: Mgr. Darja Šťastná and Hana Heřmánková, Actress, Theatre Bez zábradlí

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From left: Ing. Dagmar Strachwitzová, Business Unit Manager, M.G.P. and Ing. Miroslav Petrů, Manager of Transport, STUDENT AGENCY k.s.

From left: Eliška Hašková Coolidge, Founder and Emeritus Member, FNMWA, Ing. Eva Anderová, former Deputy Minister of Finance, now Business Consultant Czech/Slovak Leaders, and Mgr. Darja Šťastná

From left: Countess Mathilde Nostitz and Mrs. Shigeri Takamatsu

Štěpán Žilka, Flautist, Composer and JUDr. Kateřina Krylová, Lawyer, Muzeum hl. m. Prahy, Board Member , FNMWA

From left: Hana Heřmánková, Actress, Theatre Bez zábradlí and Ing. Helena Kroftová Leisztner, Artist, Vice Chairwoman, FNMWA

G ala

YEAR 2015

evening

– WOMEN IN ARTS

Marble Hall, fashion show of Michaela Dúcká

From left: Dr. Pavel Doležal, Founder and Owner, pdMEDIA - Zlatá koruna, Ing. Pavla Kalousová, Writer, Chairwoman, FNMWA, Ing. Barbora Kartáková, General Manager, pdMEDIA, Ing. Helena Kroftová Leisztner, Artist, Vice Chairwoman, FNMWA, and Pavel Rynda, Regional Director, Erste Premier and Erste Privat Banking

From left: Ing. Lenka Dušková, Board Member, FNMWA, Anna Pecková, Owner, Studio Nika, Ing. Milena Doubková, PPF Real, and Ing. Vladimíra Václavíková, Member, FNMWA

From left: Tamar Newberger, wife of the US Ambassador in Prague and Ing.arch. Iva Drebitko, Chairwoman, Triga, Board Member, FNMWA

From left: Benke Aikell, your Publisher, Michaela Dúcká, Fashion Designer, Face of the Year 15, Raul Sorrosa, Publisher and Journalist and Juan Braun, Writer

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S enior

management

Is There a

As a standard practice, I always suggest to hiring managers the need to conduct the selection and hiring process with a purposeful goal of bringing not only the preferred candidate and finalist – but two -- through the entire selection process.

This is common sense, yet this advice is often dismissed as soon as they can identify a particular candidate to their liking, at which point the others are soon forgotten. Then, as can happen, something goes wrong at the end of the hiring process.

Bringing two finalists to the conclusion of the hiring process and job offer stage should be a standard operating procedure, whenever possible.

Failing to do so, in my opinion, is short sighted and a dereliction of a manager’s responsibility – especially when fall-offs and turn-downs have increased in some market sectors, wherever there is high demand for qualified professionals. Instead, some managers seem to think there is an endless candidate pool or a magician’s hat in HR, where you can always magically find more resumes. But sadly, unless you are willing to extend your reach and relocate the people you need, there is a finite supply of the kinds of people you want and need to employ. Human resource professionals, recruiters and some managers understand this because the reality is that while indeed there are lots of resumes and people looking for a job, there may only be a handful of the candidates who are A) Qualified and B) Interested in your job and/or organization, which narrows your choices.

What I suggest is not difficult; just continue to advance both the first and second choice candidates through the entire process and to the final stage, all along informing them that only one will receive the offer. By the way, competition is good and nobody should be led to believe they are the only person under consideration for a job; it creates other problems, among them a sense of entitlement.

At the offer stage, the second choice candidate will be told, “…we liked you, but… the other candidate was chosen”. Though, don’t completely discard the number two finisher just yet, because

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you’re not done until the first choice candidate not only starts but completes the 3-month probation period.

Whenever I have to deliver this kind of news to the person who didn’t get the job, I’m simply honest with them and suggest that while indeed the process is over, sometimes things happen.

I suggest that however unlikely, for one reason or another, if a circumstance presents itself, may I re-contact them and would they be willing to reconsider the situation? Depending on the mood I further remind them that, up to this point, they were interested and well-regarded by the company, which unfortunately chose the other. Most often this is reasonable for them and they respond that it depends on their situation but they are open to the possibility. Sometimes this is all it takes for a potential insurance policy of sorts, a fall-back position should it become necessary. More often than you may think I’ve had to make that call and say, “Hi, remember me? Well, guess what happened…?”

There is something else to consider when things fall apart and you don’t plan for a back-up candidate. I don’t care how great a company or job it is, anytime a position remains open for a lengthy amount of time, there grows a perception there

CZECH&SLOVAK LEADERS I/2016

is a problem with the position, the management or the company. That mere perception can make it harder to find new candidates who might be justifiably cautious, because when a hiring process is perhaps poorly managed, the perception is valid.

Michael Mayher is an internationallyrecognized direct-search recruiter with 24 years of experience. Having worked closely with both job-seeking candidates and hiring managers, he possesses expertise and unique insight about every aspect of the hiring process, working at many different professional levels and market sectors. In the digital era, Michael is a “keeper of lost knowledge” regarding the details and finer points of the interview process.

He shares his expertise in the form of management consulting, outplacement services, career coaching and conducts lectures, seminars and as a motivational speaker. Michael is also an active blogger and published author, he can be reached at info michaelmayher.com

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D iplomats

without diplomatic passport

Klára Skřivánková

Czech Leaders I met Klára Skřivánková at the Women Trust Conference in London. She was the expert and moderator of the panel addressing the issue of modern day slavery. She represents the new generation of the Czechs, those who grew up without boarders and limits. She has lived and worked in several countries; she is now based in London. Her career journey includes working at the United Nations Office of the High Commissioner on Human Rights, United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, a research for a German parliament member and work at La Strada NGO in Prague.

I admired and enjoyed her global perspective on human rights issues including women´s rights combined with her engaging approach.

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How do you perceive today´s world?

I see the world as a wonderful place that is full of inspiration despite the fact that I have been dealing with serious abuses of people for the past fifteen years. The patchwork of cultures, experiences and knowledge offers endless opportunities to learn and explore.

Yet, the world may appear to be in a state of permanent crisis as portrayed on TV screens, front pages of newspapers and in statements of scaremongering politicians. News dominating the headlines tends to be about the financial crisis that started a few years ago, the Ebola epidemic that started last year, the huge numbers of people on the move throughout 2015 and raging regional wars.

However, I believe that it is not those crises that should concern us most, but the attempts of our leaders to curtail our liberties and impose limitations as measures to make us all feel safer.

What I see as the biggest threat to us here in the “Western World”is loss of the rights and freedoms that were hardly won by our ancestors. It was no coincidence that the Universal Declaration of Human Rights came about following terrible atrocities, and much of the other fundamental

human rights were enacted in colonial times.

Mandela, Martin Luther King, Pankhurst, Rosa Parks and countless other women and men whose names we do not know, paid with their lives (literally or at a great cost to their families) to secure the liberties and freedoms that we now take for granted. Fundamental human rights are unalienable and every human is entitled to them. These principles are anchored in law to ensure that people’s freedoms cannot be taken away on a whim of a politician. What many people do not realise is that fundamental rights and freedoms are there to protect us from ourselves!

Of course in practice it may sometimes seem that the rights of ordinary people are worth less than the rights of those in a position of power.

That does not mean though there is an issue with rights, but rather with institutions that should be enforcing them and a weak rule of law. But the very existence of the human rights framework means that one still has recourse to rights and judicial protection. Without this fundamental framework, the authorities would have the legal authority to exercise power in an unrestricted manner.

My worry is that the complacency of the current generations that did not have to struggle for their basic rights may lead to the erosion of the basis on which our societies are built. Developing a robust human rights framework is like building a cathedral without the machines and modern technology – it takes a many years of will, dedication, skills and delicate balance to erect something that is strong and withstands the changes of weather, in the same way as human rights framework is there to withstand changing political climate.

Demolishing a cathedral would be a matter of minutes - one would just need some dynamite.

Similarly, dismantling the rights framework could happen very quickly – if people stopped holding politicians to account and succumbed to the fears that the so-called leaders are trying to instil in us.

Living and working in London, how do you perceive the Czech Republic?

I have to admit I do not follow developments in the Czech Republic quite as closely. At the same time, I think I now have the benefit of a sort of an outsider view, while having the understanding of the country that only an insider can have. The question that I ask myself often is: “Why are we underselling ourselves, both as individuals and as a country?” The Czech Republic has a lot to offer – knowledge, skills, culture, arts, and yet, are we mainly known in the world for our cars

and beer.

Of course there is the legacy of the past which instilled into people that they should not stand out from crowd and which ridiculed achievements and success. But there is also the passivity of the present, something I could describe as comfortable mediocrity, which I think is a great shame for the Czechs. And that is perhaps one of the reasons why we see so few Czechs represented in international organisations, in management of intentional businesses or holding leadership position in European and international politics. What I would like to see is the Czech Republic to support developing and exporting our brain trust and actively participate in world affairs.

I believe that a government department that would help and support Czech citizens in applying to international appointments like the Netherlands have, would be quite beneficial.

Your career journey is very typical for the upcoming generation. From Prague to Berlin and Geneva and now more than a decade living and working in London. Do you consider yourself a Czech, a European or a world citizen or you do not seem to deal with this issue at all?

I consider myself first and foremost a European and then a citizen of the world – much of which I am yet to get to know. I have lived in the Czech Republic for 24 years, spent a year studying in the US, lived and worked for two years in Germany and have lived in the UK for over ten years. I was born in Prague and this beautiful city will always be a home. But London is the home of my choice, because it is place where one can be anyone and anything; it’s a place of arts and culture, full of interesting people from all corners of the world. I also experience it as a place

D iplomats where people judge less and where one’s ethic background, nationality or sexual orientation or religion is not a barrier. It is here in London where I truly feel at home – in the village of Vauxhall on the south bank of the river Thames.

Currently, you work for Anti-Slavery organisation founded in 1839 which makes it the oldest human rights organisation in the world. For many Czechs it might come as a surprise that the issue of slavery still persists in our modern era.

It is only a comforting myth for many that slavery is an issue of history. It is not. All countries in the world have what we call “modern slavery” in its particular form. The Czech Republic is not an exception. People, many of them migrants are trafficked to the Czech Republic and coerced to work in inhuman conditions that can only be described as forced labour. Many may have heard about the case of migrant workers exploited in the forestry across the country.

The Czechs too become victims of trafficking in other countries, including the UK. Despite the laws that prohibit slavery and human trafficking, and government policies and commitments, human trafficking is one of the most profitable forms of organised crime and the International Labour Organisation estimates annual profits from forced labour to be $151 billion. The reason why modern slavery remains intractable is not the lack of legislation or the need for more policing. It is the absence of political will to deal with the causes of the problem within the political economy and the interest of many states and businesses to maintain a system that generates enormous profits.

We have meat at the Trust Women Conference that has been labelled as the best conference dealing with rights of women. Despite this fact we were the only ones from the Czech Republic present.

What are the reasons behind the little interest in global issues and perspectives in the Czech Republic?

Whether Trust Women is or is not the most influential conference on the rights of women is something that only time will tell. It is still a rather new venture. I am a real conference “veteran”, so I often wonder how the impact

without diplomatic passport

Linda´s purpose is to unleash potential in individuals and organizations. She enjoys bringing expertise and synergy to corporate, non-profit, academic and public spheres. In ATAIRU, she leads leadership programs for women and transformational programs for boards. She is a senior lecturer at the Anglo-American University. Linda holds degrees from the Oxford University, Geneva Institute of International Relations and Université Lyon III. Linda is married, lives in Prague and has two children. of a large conference that involves a lot of money, PR and celebrities compares to smaller, in depth seminars that truly give women the skills, empowerment and voice to improve their political power or stop violent practices in their communities.

As for the absence of Czech participants at events like these – it is sadly quite common in my experience. I am not sure if there is complete disinterest in what is going on in the world. I perceive it rather as a form of passivity or perhaps resignation – while we may be interested in the big issues, I still believe that a lot of Czechs feel that it is either something that does not concern them, or something they cannot do much about.

Discussion about women´s rights in the Czech Republic usually end up with the polarising debate on quotas. Can you present other dimensions of the debate that takes place for example in London?

The annual WOW (Women of the World) festival is a great example of how a public debate about women’s issues happens in London. It is a festival that does not only celebrate women, their achievements and creativity, but also a forum where difficult topics like violence against women or female genital mutilation are discussed. Overall, the debate is much more mature here. It does not mean that we do not encounter misogyny or sexism in the UK. But we do have the advantage of a continuity of a debate about women’s issues since the time of the suffrage movement.

Reducing a large debate that should be about equality of opportunities, sharing of

P hoto : A rchive

responsibilities, unacceptability of gender based violence and empowerment and role models for girls, to a single issue about quota is in my opinion a clear reflection of the immaturity of the discourse in the Czech Republic. As citizens and voters we should challenge any politician who cracks jokes or ridicules discussions that concerns fifty per cent (or more!) of the population. This sort of disdain should simply be unacceptable.

I was positively surprised by a number of men experts involved in the discussion and supporting the issue of women´s rights.

How do you manage to get men engaged?

There are quite a few men who now work on women’s rights. But they are still far and few between especially when it comes to work issues that are still on the margins. Unfortunately, it is even now the case that some men enter the debate only once the initial ground work has been done and try to take over when the issue has moved into the public sphere.

And what are your final words for Czech & Slovak Leaders readers?

The most appropriate seems to me a quote from an inspirational and a very humble woman, Helen Bamber: “It is easy to be a bystander, but I wowed never to be one.” Helen encouraged many that they can make a contribution. Helen worked all her life to support survivors of human rights violations, from holocaust survivors in Bergen-Belsen, to refugees who survived torture and trafficked men and women. She worked full time until her late eighties, “bearing witness” as she would put it, hearing and understanding what has happened to people who survived atrocities and helping them overcome and find confidence to go on living. I was privileged to meet her and work with her during my time in London.

I would like to find a way to move the Czechs from being largely bystanders to being agents of change. Each and every one of us can achieve change – I do not mean change that needs to make newspaper headlines, but a change that will impact lives of others – be it your neighbour, or someone who comes from a far-away place.

By Linda Štucbartová, external collaborator of Czech & Slovak Leaders magazine

Klára Skřivánková with famous actress Emma Thompson in the middle.

CZECH&SLOVAK LEADERS I/2016

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T he A mbassadors

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D iplomatic P assports

from the

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Living a life on tip-toes my dreams come true and that I had never before believed I was capable of doing. Linda has an incredible instinct for opportunities, drive to make them happen and a charm to naturally connect people who need to connect for such purpose. I am very pleased to say that soon we started to play a “triple agent game” and nowadays I consider Linda to be my teacher, my classmate as well as a friend.

For more than three years, my interview series with prominent leaders have been appearing in the Leaders Magazine. Now, with the New Year coming, I was approached by the editor in chief, to tell more about myself and the reasons behind writing and sharing the stories. I have asked my friend Lenka Čábelová, Communication and Citizenship Lead for Microsoft, to write an interview with me. I hope that now as the concept is presented, more readers will nominate Czech and Slovak people who have contributed to the positive image of both countries. Share with us your suggestions on leaders and join us in the effort to improve leadership by presenting positive examples and visions.

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When I first met Linda, she was in a kind of a “double agent” role - a trainer as well as a participant of an authentic leadership development workshop.

It took me some time to find balance with this duality but after working with Linda for one year, I fully understand it makes a perfect sense for what she wants to achieve. Another thing that struck me was her mix of gentle blaze energy and grounded agility. I did not even have a chance to realise it but soon she led me to do things that help me make

Linda, you were a head of Diplomatic Academy at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, HR manager and a head of learning and development in several private companies, and now you act as a coach and a mentor as well as a regular interviewer of successful and inspiring people. What is the thread of all this that makes the essence of yourself?

I believe I am best characterised by the desire to change things through working with people.

I recall when I was 13, the Velvet Revolution started. My sister who is 10 years older was a member of the strike committee at Charles University. I decided to set up a strike committee at our elementary school and so became a part of the revolution. As a university student I was engaged in early years of Forum 2000 conferences. This drive to engage and make an impact on the world naturally made me go study abroad. As a young lady, I was very keen to change institutions; I even proposed to cancel the United Nations as I found it inefficient in what it wanted to achieve. Gradually, I realised that destroying something is not the right way, that it is better to build something new, and, most importantly, to change people because when individuals transform, institutions will gradually follow the change. If you ask about my personality, then I am a perfect match to what the talent dynamics profiling model says. I have energy of a blaze and, just like fire, I often have no limits. I love to interact with people, inspire them with my energy and lead them to new ideas and opportunities. For some people, it may be too much heat. My first job was in public sector and I recall that my colleagues used to say “She is the one with a lot of energy but she will calm down”.

Did you calm down?

Not at all. I left eventually. I never meant to lose my vigour and I have kept it through everything I did - and I left when it was clear that it is not possible or desirable to achieve harmony between who I am and what the organisation needs. This is a very important finding. The older I am, the more I like to work with people who can benefit from my energy and let others choose other coaches who better fit their personalities.

Because this is the only way to build a healthy relationship that brings benefits to both parties.

I believe in a win-win approach and natural reciprocity as the only sustainable way to create long term and happy relationships. There is an element of release and relief if you accept that “You cannot be everybody’s darling”.

P hoto : A rchive

Being able to arrive at such learning assumes high level of self-awareness.

I am intrigued by how you interweave your personal and professional identity.

This reflects also my own experience from Atairu workshops where you work on personal and professional transformation in a parallel. What can such approach bring to individuals working with other people, i.e. leaders, managers, coaches?

I understand authenticity as accepting who I am at my best without playing any games and roles.

If we know who we are and decide to live on our tip-toes, not on our knees, we are able to see and choose the right opportunities, connect with the right people and be exceptional. Many people keep trying to play various roles at home and at work and they burn too much energy on it. They stop being authentic and they are not transparent to others. There is an element of legacy of the Communist past when most population tried not to stand out of the crowd and strived to be in a grey invisible zone.

Authenticity requires quite a high level of personal courage, doesn’t it?

It is a transformation of attitude. It is not easy but once you succeed, it goes fast and naturally.

Just to give an example, it helped me reframe how I see myself as a mother. I was never a structured mother who is good at regularly picking up kids from school, doing diligently homework with them, etc. I tried but it took too much energy and I was then nervous and did not have capacity for things I really wanted to do with my kids. It was great for me to realise that I can do it differently without feeling guilty for not playing a typical mother’s role. I found a lady who is a former teacher to work with my kids on school stuff; she is perfect in it and really happy to do it. She loves it. And I have space to do things that no one else can do with them - we make trips, visit friends, discuss what we see and experience. I have the opportunity to give them the best of me. And on top of that it is very convenient for me because I can be myself. The key trigger was to understand that I do not care how others judge me – this is my life. You know, sometimes we women are harder to each other than men are among themselves.

We need to show more solidarity and support and less judgment.

In your series of interviews with “Ambassadors without Diplomatic Passports” you often ask about national identity – how Czechs are perceived abroad. Do you see any relationship between individual and collective identity?

Can lack of authenticity on an individual level impact our national identity?

When it comes to national identity, I am concerned about our attitude to elites. Many

T he A mbassadors Czech people see success as something that should not be appreciated because there is something wrong with it. It goes far beyond the Communist times, as the case of prominent opera singer from early 20th century Ema Destinnová, famous in Berlin, Paris and New York and rejected in National Theatre in Prague, shows. There are so many great leaders who have a positive impact in their respective areas of work and who achieved success in an honest and virtuous way. I see them as a source of inspiration and by interviewing them, I hope this will bring a change to how we appreciate talent and success of others. Authentic leaders speak not only about successes, but also failures.

We only learn when we are outside the comfort zone and no one has learned walking, riding a bike or skiing without falling.

We are back to the point that the most important change happens on an individual level and subsequently we can experience transformation on the organisational or even national level. This is what you do in Atairu - you try to give people courage to be authentic leaders. What does it mean?

We have a vision of achieving positive impact on transformation of society through a new approach to leadership. I have been with Atairu for two years and I’ve had the opportunity to work with over 150 managers in leading positions who made a big difference in their companies by implementing in their teams what they have discovered. So far, we have worked more with 350 leaders across the region of Central and Eastern Europe. Just recently I discussed my work with a former university colleague and she was intrigued by my positive perception of the today’s situation. It is because I can sense more than the negative news we get through the media daily. I see many competent people in top positions with very strong values and desire for change. These people work hard on themselves and want to leave a positive footprint in whatever they do.

At what point do people in top positions arrive at the need to undergo such personal transformation? It takes quite a lot of time

ATAIRU team – from left: Aneta Lopotová, Eva Štefanková, Radka Dohnalová, Linda Štucbartová, and Markéta Langášová.

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D iplomatic P assports

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Lenka Čábelová´s mission is to create and tell stories that change people’s lives by touching our minds and hearts. She likes to see the bigger picture and, as if making a puzzle from a hundred pieces, she turns words into a strong corporate message and fragmented activities into integrated communications projects. As a professional, she acts as the ambassador of the vision of the company and connects people and organisations around the theme to achieve synergies and make an impact. In her role as the Communications and CSR Manager at Microsoft Czech Republic, Lenka creates and tells stories about how new technologies increase flexibility and mobility and how freedom to get things done from anywhere helps improve business results as well as better integrate work and life. She joined Atairu Authentic Leadership Transformation programme a year ago. and readiness to admit and appreciate weaknesses and imperfections, and these people are usually very busy and very successful. What drives them to it?

I see two key factors. The first one being sustainability. Yes, they are successful but they often have worked all their life very long hours and with extreme intensity. They understand that they cannot live like this for another 15 or 20 years. The second reason is the need for a different kind of fulfilment. It is like climbing a high mountain. You are on the top and what next? Maybe there is another mountain nearby but is this the challenge you need?

Would it bring a new value to you if you tried to get there? Maybe there is more value and satisfaction in enjoying the view from the top for a while, in accepting the journey as a goal, in helping others learn to climb or even in asking why I have gotten here and whether mountains are indeed the right place for me to be in…

Diversity is still a challenging concept in Czech society. How do you perceive it?

It is very fragmented and polarizing. Not many people understand that diversity is not only a question of a gender, but of all natural differences in society. Nowadays, we have four generations at workplace, this is a new situation.

Just one example from the biggest private company in the Czech Republic - ŠKODA AUTO, illustrating what today´s reality looks like: people are employed there from 16 years (apprentices) to 65, there are more than 40 nationalities and also people with different physical abilities. Such

diversity has been unprecedented at a work place. Organisations in the Czech Republic tend to work on each element separately and in waves.

There was a wave of doing gender diversity, then age management, etc. But we need to think of it as a whole. When we exercise, we train all parts of the body together, right? Would you spend a year working on just your belly and the next year focusing on legs and then on your back, etc.? This would cost a lot of effort but definitely not lead to a healthy body and good feeling. You cannot split a human being into categories and work on one part only. You are not a different person at work and at home. We always need to see the full picture, as individuals as well as in organisations, to get the best results. Diversity is enriching, leads to prosperity and innovative outcomes. In order to appreciate it, we should not be afraid to embrace the unknown and differences. And to do so, we must be sure of ourselves, strengths and values. Then we know what to stand for and the outside (unknown) element might not seem threatening anymore. That is why for me diversity is only one of the key elements of authentic leadership and the approach of leadership from within can hope us to deal with current crises.

Do you think that it may change with a new generation of leaders?

I have a big hope in the new generation that is just entering the market. They are interested in what impact their actions have on society and they have experience from abroad. I keep my fingers crossed for them to succeed in making our future more connected to what is happening in the world and consequently the Czech Republic being less provincial.

Sometimes I am sad that my friends from other countries often tell me that in terms of spirit, Prague feels like a large village. That is why I try to pay attention to subjects that are global in nature, surround myself with personalities that have a global outlook. And this brings me back to Talent Dynamics and the talent of each individual. The more certain we are about ourselves and our purpose, the more opportunities for collaboration arise. We do not see others as a threat but as the complementary ones providing skills we do not have.

By Lenka Čábelová, external collaborator of Czech & Slovak Leaders magazine

CZECH&SLOVAK LEADERS I/2016

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AN INTERVIEW WITH DITA CHARANZOVÁ, Member of the European Parliament P hoto : M artin T iso

Dita Charanzová is a Czech Member of the European Parliament. She graduated from the University of Economics, Prague and later from the Diplomatic Academy in Madrid. Ms Charanzová completed a doctorate degree from Jan Masaryk Centre of International Studies in Prague. She is a former diplomat, whose postings included the Czech Permanent Representation to the EU during the Czech Presidency, where she led the Trade Policy Committee.

She has also worked at the Council of Europe. Ms Charanzová is the ALDE spokesperson and ranking Member of the Internal Market and Consumer Protection Committee and a Substitute Member of the Committee on International Trade.

We should think digitally by default You are covering a whole range of topics such as Internal Market and Trade policy. Let´s start with international trade and new EU trade strategy. What are the opportunities for the EU in global trade? On which part of the World should we focus and what form should the negotiations take?

I personally welcome the Commission´s new Trade and Investment strategy, because I believe it is a much needed and long awaited document. For the EU, which is a global leader and trendsetter in this field, trade is one of the key areas of its policies.

With the new strategy there is an emphasis put on the crucial link between trade opportunities and growth and jobs generated in the EU. More liberalized trade with our main partners creates more jobs in the EU and thus contributes to its growth. This is one of the premises on which we should base all of our future negotiations. But above all, we need to deliver concrete benefits from trade agreements to our companies, especially small and medium enterprises. When it comes to the regional focus you were raising, I am convinced that first of all we must undergo a stock-taking exercise of all the ongoing negotiations. I am concerned by long lasting talks,

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some of them have been blocked for quite a while and we should be able to say whether there is a common will to continue on these or not. As a priority, we have to conclude those negotiations currently taking place with our key trade partners such as the USA and Japan. But I see a great potential for our companies also in Latin America and Asia.

Conclusion of the TTIP negotiations will not happen in 2016. In November, the US will hold presidential election and we have to expect a slowdown in EU-US talks. Do you see it as an opportunity or a threat?

I believe we should stick to our ambition to conclude the TTIP in 2016. You mention the presidential election taking place in the US next year. It is hard to foresee the exact impact this could have on the TTIP negotiations, however, I think that there is a common shared vision, both in the US and in the EU, that such an agreement has its merits and it should be concluded. We have advanced quite well so far, and it would not be beneficial to either side not to conclude it soon. I can imagine a sort of slowdown, as you put it, linked mainly to eventual changes in the US administration, but not to the point that I would

call it a threat. The EU and the US are natural trade partners, strategic partners as well, and TTIP could bring this relationship to another level, making both sides of the Atlantic work closer and providing businesses with real new opportunities.

Yet, in the context of EU-US cooperation, European and American businesses were shocked by the decision of the Court of Justice of the EU on Safe Harbour. Was it a “wise” decision?

Well, it would not be correct to make comments on the Court of Justice´s decision as to whether it was wise or not. The Court acts independently and is, without any doubt, able to duly justify its reasoning and judgements. We should take this decision as a matter of fact. The Commission has to analyse what kind of legal situation we are in right now and make it clear also for the companies. There were over 4000 of them using Safe Harbour and they deserve to know what will happen now. I think that we all know how important the data protection issue is for us, here in the EU, and we should make it possible for European´s consumers data to be handled cautiously and following clear rules, also by

EU non-European actors. We spoke about TTIP a little bit ago, I believe that we have to find a relevant solution to the data protection issue also for the sake of this agreement.

In summer 2015, the European Commission suggested to grant China market economy status. The decision is likely to split Europe but also businesses across different sectors.

Do we need more time to study potential impact of the decision?

This is a very important question, thank you for raising it. It is my impression that we do not pay enough attention to this issue in the Czech Republic. However, the decision on whether to grant China market economy status or not will have farreaching consequences. The Commission has not yet stated what its preference is. We heard about the legal analysis which might lead to the conclusion that the EU should grant it. Having said that, the Commission is currently working on a couple of analyses which should shed more light onto this question. I think that we should be very cautious in this matter and also listen to what our businesses have to say. We hear about the steel and ceramics sector but there are definitely many more areas which could be heavily affected by such a decision.

Bearing this in mind, I am calling on the Commission to investigate alternative scenarios and make proposals on different types of trade defence instruments which could help us protect sensible sectors.

The Commission unveiled its Digital Single Market Strategy in May 2015. It is difficult to regulate digital market. First the regulation is coming with a delay in such a smart-growing environment and second, it can suffocate the innovation. What is your opinion on that?

I completely agree with what you have just said.

There is a clear delay between the pace of the digital revolution and potential regulatory measures.

But for me, the ultimate question is: how do we want regulate the digital world? Do we need rules for everything, or should we adopt a laissez-faire approach and let the market figure it out by itself? In my opinion, the answer is somewhere in between, but closer to the latter. The focus of our work must be on the removal of barriers and national requirements that prevent a true single market. Instead of creating new prescriptive requirements at the European level, I believe we must instead work on the principles and frameworks of how we want the market work and then let businesses implement those principles. I fear that if we are too prescriptive, our laws will be outdated from the moment they are adopted.

We are expecting a new proposal on online platforms in 2016. What would be the best regulation to this environment?

There is currently an ongoing public consultation run by the European Commission on the regulation of online platforms. I am very much looking forward to seeing what the different stakeholders´ views on it are. Personally, I believe that to simply and blindly apply ex-ante regulation on platforms, as with traditional services, will do more harm to

consumers and businesses than they would benefit them. We as legislators should focus our work on ex-post remedies instead of focusing on ex-ante controls. In other words, acting only after there is a problem instead of putting limits on businesses and traders before they even begin to sell. When dealing with this matter, we need to think outside the box and come up with new ideas. I keep saying we should think digitally by default. Another issue is data protection. I believe every platform has a duty to protect the data of its users. Security, however, will never be perfect. Consumers must be informed of a breach and what has been stolen. If the stolen data could be used against an individual, companies should be required to help counterbalance the negative effects.

At the moment (beginning of December) the European Parliament is finalizing together with the Council the General Data Protection Regulation. Digital market is based on data.

How can we ensure the highest level of data privacy?

Yes, indeed, as discussed earlier, the data protection is one of the key elements of truly functioning digital single market. Both for the citizens and for the businesses. I believe that the Commission struck the right balance with its proposal. It came with the idea of a general data protection regulation, because the EU needs a single set of rules. This would help not only consumers but also companies carrying out cross-border operations. But I guess we can do even better here, as the initial ambition included also lowering administrative burden for all the actors involved.

Digitalization of the economy creates new barriers on the Internal Market. However, there are still persisting barriers in traditional business such as cross-border provision of services. What can be done at EU level to remove barriers on the Internal Market?

I think there is an approach to take addressing challenges in the overall single market. It would be hard to further develop e-commerce without working on opening up the market in parcel deliveries, provisions of services on cross-border level or labour P hoto : M artin T iso

matters interview

mobility. All these issues go hand in hand with the rapid development of online services. There are also other barriers we should focus on, such as geo-blocking, which we suffer from any time we cannot benefit from a service because it is reserved exclusively to residents of a different country than ours. In general, we have to fully apply the mutual recognition principle. Let me mention one of the areas which still suffer from overregulation – the liberal professions. There are barriers which deny professionals to access their fundamental European freedoms of movement and establishment. So this kind of unjustified barriers must be removed as they prevent fair competition between different actors. National regulations amount to protectionist measures, they constitute de facto non-tariff trade barriers. We need the services provision directive to be fully implemented so that the Czech and other European professionals or service providers can access other cross-border markets freely.

Last but not least, what do you think about current threat of terrorism in Europe?

I cannot express how shocked I was to learn about the terrible events last month in Paris. It makes me sad to think of it, not only because I have been living in France for the last six years. It is obvious that the EU is now more than ever a target for terrorist acts and that we have to be active in countering it.

For the time being, I am a bit disappointed by the Commission´s reaction to the urgent challenges raised by the security situation. We had high ambitions after the attacks on Charlie Hebdo last January, however our reaction was far too slow, heavily bureaucratic and not accurately designed. The Paris attacks happened almost one year since the Charlie Hebdo events and we have to be honest with ourselves, nothing really changed since then. I think we should be more active in this field; the terrorists will not wait until some directives are ready. They might be willing to attack us again and I hope we can face them better.

Thank you for the interview!

Alena Mastantuono Director of CEBRE – Czech Business Representation to the EU

EU

debate

From left: Michal Feix, Director of Legal & Regulatory Affairs, Seznam.cz, Gábor Vicze, CEO, Innomine, Ivan Štefanec, MEP, Slovakia, Martin Bailey, European Commission, Acting Head of Unit for Digital Single Market, Jurand Drop, Undersecretary of State, Ministry of Administration and Digital Affairs, Poland, and István Erényi, Digital Champion, Hungary

V4 Digital Day

© Czech Permanent Representation to the EU

On the occasion of the Czech Presidency of the Visegrad Group, the Czech Permanent Representation to the EU in cooperation with Seznam.cz organised a conference “V4 Digital Day”. The event took place on 9th November 2015 in Brussels with the aim to contribute to ongoing debates on Digital Single Market Strategy published by the European Commission on 6th May 2015. The speakers agreed that the possible future legislation should not deal with issues that should be rather dealt with antitrust policy and should not regulate only couple of big players on the market. Furthermore, companies believe that EU should not prevent US platforms active on EU market from further growth and should treat all platforms equally.

Participants of the conference

Kamil Skramuský, Co-Founder at Costlocker, Private IT Company

Věra Jourová, Commissioner for Justice, Consumers and Gender Equality

Seminar – The Investment Plan For E On 17th September 2015 in Prague, Czech audience discussed with the European Investment Bank and European Commission representatives the possibility how to get involved in the Investment Plan for Europe. Approved projects to be financed by the European Fund for Strategic Investments (EFSI) in other EU countries were presented by EIB and EC speakers. Czechs can use EFSI for investment projects for SMEs and midcaps (support programmes combining national and EU money) and for infrastructure investment projects dealing directly with EIB/EIF. Good news is that the EIB liaison office is to be opened in Prague in 2016. © CEBRE From left: Tomáš Novotný, Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade of the Czech Republic, Michal Částek, Ministry of Finance of the Czech Republic, Jitka Bureš, Financing of the Public Sector in Central Europe, European Investment Bank, Dominik Zunt-Radot, Directorate General for Economic and Financial Affairs (ECFIN), European Commission, and David Borek, Moderator

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Tomáš Novotný, Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade of the Czech Republic

EU

Audience

debate

Europe´s Unstable Eastern Neighborhood:

What role for Civil Society?

Audience

From left: Jacques Rupnik, French historian and political scientist, former Advisor of Czech President Vaclav Havel and Volodymyr Ogrysko, Ukrainian diplomat, former Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine

From left: Pavel Svoboda, MEP, Czech Republic and Volodymyr Ogrysko, Ukrainian diplomat, former Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine

Czech Centre in Brussels, European Partnership for Democracy, Czech Permanent Representation in Brussels and the Vaclav Havel Library organised a conference within the Vaclav Havel´s European Dialogues “Europe´s Unstable Eastern Neighborhood: What role for Civil Society?”. The event took place on Wednesday 18th November 2015 in the European Parliament in Brussels and was held under the auspices of MEP Pavel Svoboda. © Czech Centre in Brussels

Europe – What’s In For Czechs?

From left: Jitka Bureš, Financing of the Public Sector in Central Europe, European Investment Bank, Dominik Zunt-Radot, Directorate General for Economic and Financial Affairs (ECFIN), European Commission and Petr Očko, Ministry of Industry and Trade of the Czech Republic

From left: Zdeněk Čech, Economic Advisor, European Commission Representation in the Czech Republic, Mojmír Hampl, Member of the Board on the Czech National Bank, and Jan Michal, Head of the European Commission Representation in the Czech Republic

Participants

From left: Jiří Jirásek, Member of the Board and Director of business management of the CzechMoravian Guarantee and Development Bank, Tomáš Novotný, Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade of the Czech Republic, Michal Částek, Ministry of Finance of the Czech Republic, and Jitka Bureš, Financing of the Public Sector in Central Europe, European Investment Bank

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DID YOU KNOW THAT? The European Commission launched the Capital Markets Union Action Plan The European Commission launched the Capital Markets Union Action Plan in September in order to help build a true single market for capital across the 28 EU Member States. The Action Plan is built on four main principles which are: Creating more opportunities for investors, connecting financing to the real economy, fostering a stronger and more resilient financial system and deepening financial integration and increasing competition.

The Commission aims to break down the barriers that are blocking cross-border investments within the EU and to enable companies to obtain finance, regardless of where they are located.

End of roaming charges by June 2017 The EU adopted the agreement to end roaming charges from June 2017. Europeans will pay the same price to use their mobile devices when travelling in the EU as they do at home. Transition period will already allow for cheaper roaming from April 2016. New regulation also sets up clear rules to internet access (so called net neutrality) that will avoid fragmentation in the single market and create legal certainty for cross-border business. New clear rules will protect the rights of Europeans to access the content on the internet without interference or discrimination.

European Commission launched new Single Market Strategy On 28th October, the European Commission launched new Single Market Strategy that aims to make business rules simpler across the EU. New strategy focuses on three main areas – creating new opportunities for consumers, professionals and businesses, encouraging the modernisation and innovation and ensuring practical benefits for people in their daily lives.

Moreover, it focuses on services and product market and complements the Commission´s efforts to boost sharing economy and investment, improve competitiveness, foster the start-ups by improving the access to finance, ensure functioning internal market for energy and to utilize opportunities of the digital single market.

Autumn 2015 Economic Forecast released The European Commission released its Autumn Economic Forecast at the beginning of November. According to the Commission, EU is recording moderate economic recovery. Thanks to the declining oil prices, accommodative monetary policy and a relatively weak external value of the euro, the economic recovery has been resilient across Member States this year, despite newly appeared challenges, such as slowdown in global trade and persisting geopolitical tensions. The pace of growth is expected to resist the challenges in 2016, mainly thanks to better employment performance, easier credit conditions and higher investment.

Overall, real GDP of the EU is expected to grow by 1.9% in 2015 and by 2,0% in 2016.

European Parliament adopted EU budget for 2016 On 25th November, the European Parliament approved the final agreement on the EU budget

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for 2016, setting commitment appropriations at €155 billion and payment appropriations at €143.9 billion. The maximum possible amount of funds is allocated for migration and refugee crisis, support for small and medium-sized enterprises, students and the EU research programme Horizon 2020.

LET´S TALK NUMBERS! Euro area International trade in goods recorded €11.2bn surplus The Statistical office of the European Union Eurostat released in mid-October the results of the survey on international trade in goods for August 2015. The euro area recorded a €11.2 bn surplus in trade in goods with the rest of the world. In comparison with August 2014, there was an increase of 6%. Exports of goods from the EU represented €148,3 billion in August 2015, imports stood at €137.1 bn. EU28 recorded a deficit of €2.3 bn in trade in goods in August 2015, compared with deficit of €10.0 bn in August 2014. €16 billion in funding for research and innovation over next two years The European Commission will invest €16 billion in research and innovation in the next two years under the programme Horizon 2020.

New funding opportunities will support further research and innovation that will contribute to increase employment, growth and investments as well as implement the Digital Market Strategy and Internal Market Strategy. At least €8 million in funding will be also available for research on security of the EU´s external borders in order to help prevent human trafficking. €237 million in loans for European microenterprises The European Commission and the European Investment Fund open up an access to finance for microenterprises by mobilising €237 million in loans. 20 000 micro-enterprises will get access to loans under the European Programme for Employment and Social Innovation (EaSI). The Commission´s aim is to help EU citizens to start up a business or further develop their own microenterprises or those who have difficulties in entering the job market or in accessing finance.

Industrial producer prices fell by 0.3% in September 2015 The Statistical office of the European Union Eurostat released the results on industrial producer prices for September 2015. According to the survey, the industrial producer prices fell by 0.3% in the euro zone as well as in the EU28.

In comparison with September 2014, industrial producer prices dropped by 3.1% in the euro zone and by 3.8% in the EU28. All Member States, except Belgium, Malta (both +0.5%) and France (+0.1%) registered monthly decline. The largest decreases were observed in Ireland (-2.0%) and Slovakia (-1.3%).

IN THE WORLD! New trade and investment strategy presented The European Commission proposed a new trade and investment strategy for the EU, called “Trade for all: Towards a more responsible trade and investment policy”. New strategy is based on

three key principles – effectiveness, transparency and values. Trade for all is also dealing with current EU trade negotiations with third countries such as TTIP and EU-Japan free trade agreement.

Furthermore, it focuses on new opportunities in Asia-Pacific region and plans a deepening of the EU’s relationships with African partners.

EU ratified WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement In October, the EU finalised the ratification process of the World Trade Organization WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement that should significantly simplify and modernise customs procedures around the world. It should help small businesses access new export opportunities and play an important role in increasing developing countries involvement in global value chains. The EU is now expecting its WTO partners to fulfil all the required procedural steps, so that companies could gain the benefits from the agreement as soon as possible.

The European Court of Justice struck down the Safe Harbour agreement On the 6th October, the European Court of Justice struck down the EU-US data sharing agreement known as Safe Harbour. The agreement allowed companies to transfer consumers’ personal data from EU to the US freely, because American companies agreed to meet the European data protection standards. However, the judgment of the European Court of Justice claims that the agreement is invalid because it undermined the ability of national data protection authorities to determine whether data transfers to the US had privacy safeguards up to EU legal standards. This decision created a state of legal uncertainty among both European and American businesses and they therefore call on the European Commission to create a framework that would respect fundamental human rights and provide legal certainty for the companies as soon as possible.

China will contribute to the Investment Plan for Europe During the High Level Economic and Trade dialogue in Beijing, China´s Vice-Premier Ma Kai informed the Commission´s representatives that China will contribute to the Investment Plan for Europe by investing €315 billion. In addition to this announcement, the two sides agreed to set up a joint working group to increase cooperation between the EU and China on all aspects of investment. China is the first non-EU country that announced the contribution to the Investment Plan.

EU starts negotiation process on Free Trade Agreement with New Zealand High-level representatives from the European Commission and the Council met with Prime Minister of New Zealand John Key to discuss the possibility to further develop trade and economic relations between the EU and New Zealand. The leaders committed to start the process for negotiations to achieve swiftly a deep and comprehensive high-quality Free Trade Agreement that will support sustainable growth and investment, open up new trade and business opportunities and generate new employment for people.

Brought by CEBRE – Czech Business Representation to the EU

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