Executive Development Program

Sustainability and responsible business practices are becoming key drivers of long-term success and competitive advantage across all industries. In response to accelerating regulatory, market, and societal shifts, this two-day module is designed for managers who aim to understand and strategically address the challenges and opportunities of the ESG transition. Participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of the evolving ESG landscape - from global and local trends to emerging regulations such as the ESRS standards - along with practical tools for integrating sustainable practices into diverse business contexts. Real-world case studies will highlight how ESG impacts business models, risk management, investment flows, and corporate reputation. Special focus will be placed on developing authentic ESG strategies tailored to various sectors, including manufacturing, energy, retail, logistics, and financial services. The module also explores key skills such as effective reporting, stakeholder engagement, and the ability to identify and mitigate risks such as greenwashing. This module is led by Neven Marinović, a seasoned ESG expert with over 15 years of experience in advising companies, institutions, and international organizations on sustainable business strategies, impact reporting, and ESG transformation. He is the Executive Director of Smart Kolektiv and Co-Founder of the ESG Knowledge HUB.

Confident and impactful communication is one of the defining traits of today’s successful leaders. This two-day module is designed to help managers and future leaders refine their public speaking abilities, overcome stage fright, and master the skills needed to deliver presentations that inspire, inform, and drive action. Through hands-on exercises, individual feedback, and personalized coaching, participants will improve both verbal and non-verbal communication, learn how to structure their message, and adapt their delivery to different audiences. The module covers all stages of effective presenting - from preparation and content development, to visual tools, delivery techniques, and audience interaction. Special emphasis is placed on building confidence, managing nerves, and handling challenging questions with ease. Participants will learn how to engage their audience using storytelling, clear body language, and compelling openings and conclusions. By reviewing and analyzing their own presentations, participants will identify personal patterns, enhance their delivery style, and create an action plan for continuous improvement. This module is delivered by Domen Zadravec, Partner at EY-Parthenon and Central Europe Strategy & Transformation Leader. With extensive experience in advising senior executives across Europe, the Middle East, and Australia, he brings a strategic consulting lens to communication, helping leaders deliver messages that resonate and drive change.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is reshaping industries and redefining how businesses operate. This two-day module equips managers with the practical tools, insights, and strategies needed to responsibly integrate AI into their organizations. Participants will explore the fundamentals of AI, including its capabilities, limitations, and ethical considerations, as well as the regulatory frameworks such as GDPR and the EU AI Act. They will engage with real-world tools and case studies that showcase how AI supports decision-making, process automation, and innovation in product and service development. The module also addresses AI’s potential in advisory services, including finance, law, and market research, and covers how to prepare teams and foster a culture ready for AI adoption. This module is led by Bojan Đurić, Expansion Manager at HTEC Group and a seasoned expert at the intersection of technology and business strategy. With a strong background in finance, digital innovation, and organizational transformation, he brings a pragmatic, forward-thinking approach to AI integration.