Serbia
As General Manager of Black Horse – FAS d.o.o., I lead one of Serbia’s most established industrial manufacturers through a new era of transformation, innovation, and strategic growth. With more than 70 years of tradition in producing lead-based automotive batteries, Black Horse is a name rooted in legacy. My mission has been to ensure that the legacy evolves into lasting relevance on the modern European market. Since stepping into the leadership role, I have focused on turning around financial performance, rebuilding internal capabilities, and reshaping the company’s positioning across Central and Eastern Europe. Working alongside an experienced team and committed board, we’ve moved from post-insolvency stabilization to a renewed industrial strategy, encompassing production optimization, market reconnection, and governance improvements. Today, I oversee all aspects of the business — from manufacturing and commercial expansion to procurement, HR, and long-term strategic planning. More than just improving efficiency, we are building a culture of performance, accountability, and innovation that honors our industrial heritage while embracing the demands of a fast-changing global environment. While our first milestones include restored EBITDA performance, upgraded plant operations, and rekindled distributor relationships, we see this as the foundation, not the final goal. Black Horse is reemerging as a reliable partner and supplier in the regional automotive ecosystem, with a clear vision for sustainable growth, product modernization, and cross-market competitiveness.
Oversees the full scope of strategic, operational, and commercial leadership at Black Horse – a Serbian manufacturer of lead-based automotive batteries with over 70 years of market presence. Appointed as General Manager during a period of post-restructuring transition, with a mandate to restore competitiveness, strengthen governance, and reposition the brand across Central and Eastern Europe. Developed and implemented multi-year growth strategies focused on production modernization, organizational alignment, and market expansion. Coordinates all company functions, including manufacturing, sales, procurement, finance, and HR, to ensure integrated execution and accountability. Key responsibilities and results: – Directed the transition from financial stabilization to full operational renewal following internal restructuring – Launched initiatives to improve plant efficiency, increase output capacity, and align production with evolving quality standards – Strengthened commercial outreach, identifying key markets in the region and rebuilding relationships with distributors and clients – Introduced a structured performance management system to drive accountability and improve cross-functional coordination – Supported governance improvements and long-term planning with board-level stakeholders
Appointed as CFO and legal representative to lead the financial turnaround of a legacy industrial manufacturer preparing for operational relaunch. Tasked with building the finance function from the ground up and reestablishing the company’s credibility with financial institutions, suppliers, and investors. Designed and implemented key systems and processes across controlling, reporting, and compliance. Played a central role in liquidity management, contract renegotiation, and governance improvements — setting the foundation for sustainable operations and a successful restructuring process. Key responsibilities and results: – Introduced comprehensive financial controls and ERP systems to manage costs and reporting – Managed investor relations and secured the liquidity needed for relaunch and working capital – Renegotiated major supplier and customer agreements under new commercial terms – Led all legal and financial compliance efforts during the transition phase – Delivered EBITDA improvement of €1.2M, turning a €3.6M loss into a €0.2M profit in FY2022
Oversaw financial operations during the early post-opening phase of BW Galerija, the region’s largest retail center and part of the $3 billion Belgrade Waterfront development. Responsible for budgeting, reporting, collections, lease accounting, and financial control in a high-volume, multi-tenant retail environment. Worked closely with lenders to ensure project compliance and managed implementation of internal financial systems to support operational stability. Key responsibilities and results: – Managed financial planning, budgeting cycles, and collection processes across 300,000+ sqm of leased retail space – Coordinated lender reporting and ensured compliance with financing covenants – Introduced internal controls and implemented cost optimization procedures – Oversaw use of Oracle ERP and Yardi for leasing and invoicing operations
Led financial operations for the Serbian unit of Dufry (from November 2023 Avolta AG), a global leader in travel retail with CHF 11B+ in annual revenues and operations across 60+ countries. Oversaw all aspects of financial management, including reporting, compliance, planning, IT systems, and HR coordination. Provided strategic and operational support across functions and managed communications with external stakeholders such as lenders, auditors, and regulators. Supported regional growth and was involved in major IT and organizational transformations. Key responsibilities and results: – Directed budgeting, forecasting, and statutory reporting processes – Managed compliance with financial regulations, internal controls, and audit procedures – Led ERP migration (Navision to SAP) and POS system upgrades – Oversaw HR and administrative support, including onboarding and performance tracking – Contributed to strategic planning for regional expansion in Southeast Europe
Performed statutory and group audits for clients in the banking, insurance, and manufacturing sectors, with full compliance under IFRS and Serbian financial regulations. Responsible for audit planning, execution, and reporting, as well as risk assessment and internal control evaluations. Worked with senior client stakeholders and gained exposure to complex financial systems across various industries. Key assignments included: – Meridian Bank, SoGe Lease, Delta Osiguranje, Polis, Swisslion, Takovo, Pfizer – Participated in advisory projects and reporting for group consolidation
Managed store operations for the largest U.S. drugstore chain, overseeing a team of 30+ employees. Responsibilities included inventory control, staff scheduling, payroll, and customer service. Developed foundational leadership skills and operational discipline in a high-pressure retail environment