10 January 2025

Ante Roje: EMBA as a Path to Success

Ante Roje, our Executive MBA student who has been working at Ledo for many years and is currently serving as the National Key Account Manager, shares his experiences and insights regarding his education and professional journey in this interview.

 

What motivated you to enroll in the MBA program?

My motivation to enroll in the Executive MBA program was driven by a desire to continue my personal educational development and achieve the goals I have set for myself. Although I considered several options for an EMBA, the turning point came when I participated in the MBA Scholarship Competition, where my team won. I received an additional 15% discount on tuition, which made the decision easier.

What skills and knowledge have you gained during the MBA program that have been most helpful in your current job?

As a Master’s in Economics, some of the subjects were already familiar to me. However, I would particularly highlight the value of the new knowledge and skills gained through specific courses and simulations I hadn’t encountered before, such as “Value Maximization” and “Capstone.” These courses have provided me with additional depth and breadth in my professional capacity.

How have you utilized your network of colleagues and professors from the MBA program in your professional life?

The networking with colleagues and professors from the MBA program continues to benefit me. My peers come from a wide range of industries and bring diverse knowledge and experiences, which is invaluable for future collaborations and exchanging ideas. As for the professors, I have been impressed by their experience and professional achievements. For example, Professor Dogan made a strong impact on me with his expertise and ability to convey practical business insights.

How did you manage to balance your professional duties and studying for the MBA program?

The past year has been extremely demanding— I took on a new role in Zagreb while living in Split, and at the same time, I became a father. Despite all of this, I managed to find balance. I would usually combine business commitments in Zagreb during the workweek with classes on Fridays and Saturdays.

How has it helped that the professors at ZSEM have extensive business experience?

The practical experience of the professors has been invaluable, and I believe this is crucial. I have encountered many theorists throughout my academic journey, most of whom dedicate their lives to academic careers without real-world entrepreneurial risk. When you are impressed by a professor’s experience and knowledge, your level of focus and absorption of their teachings is significantly higher.

What advice would you give to future students considering enrolling in an MBA program?

My key piece of advice is that an MBA degree can be what sets you apart from a sea of candidates with similar qualifications. In today’s business environment, many people have similar resumes, and the difference often comes down to personal branding and presentation. An EMBA degree can be a powerful tool for building your professional identity and positioning yourself in the marketplace.