CONTINUITY OF SUCCESS: OUR MANAGERS ON THE “30 UNDER 30” LIST ONCE AGAIN

The traditional Bizlife magazine “30 Under 30” list once again recognizes young professionals who are shaping the future of business through their knowledge and results. Among them is Zvezdana Vuletić, Community Partnerships Manager at Coca-Cola HBC Serbia and Montenegro, whose professional development is yet another confirmation of our continuous investment in young leaders and their careers.

Knowledge gained through international conferences and student organizations guided Zvezdana Vuletić toward a professional path where sustainable development is a strategic priority. From student projects and United Nations climate summits to her current role as Community Partnerships Manager at Coca-Cola HBC Serbia and Montenegro, she has been building bridges between the company, the community, and sustainability goals. Through partnerships with customers, consumer education, and volunteer initiatives, she believes that true value lies in connecting sectors and people. With the support of the right mentors, she strives to turn every idea into tangible change.

Below, read her interview for Bizlife magazine:

What was the personal trigger that led you to pursue the career you are in today?

I would say that I was fortunate and courageous enough to allow my values to guide my   career and professional development, with the desire to contribute to the community, the environment, and society. 

During my studies, I considered changing faculties toward a technical field, but I soon realized that my calling lies in communications, human relations, public advocacy, strategy development, and partnership building. Participating in a United Nations conference on climate change gave me a unique insight into the importance of cooperation among all sectors governmental, non-governmental, and private as well as the importance of active individuals. At that moment, I understood that change is only possible through dialogue and collective effort, which further strengthened my decision to build my career within the business sector.  

What motivates you the most in your work today?

A strong team, positive energy, and a supportive and dynamic environment combined with broad opportunities for learning. In addition, I find motivation in the desire for improvement, whether it involves empowering colleagues, working with teams, improving internal processes, or developing projects that support the community. Additional motivation comes from seeing the impact of your work, when results speak for themselves and you know that what you do has meaning and value. In the fast paced and exciting fast moving consumer goods industry, the work tempo is intense, but it also offers room to achieve concrete and measurable results within a short period of time. It is precisely this combination of a supportive environment, great colleagues, diverse challenges, opportunities, and tangible results that drives me on a daily basis.

Is there a person or a moment in your career that was crucial for your further development?

I could not single out just one, as I am most proud when projects and successes create long term results. I am glad that through my work I have contributed to connecting different sectors and people, and it is precisely these partnerships that have led to projects with tangible impact on the community. I am proud that we have opened new perspectives for collaboration with our customers in creating shared added value. We have recognized the broader approach to sustainable business and jointly implemented volunteer initiatives, various donations, and consumer education projects. It is important to me that at the level of the entire organization we have also recognized this value and become true sustainability ambassadors within our teams and beyond.

Why did you decide to stay and work in Serbia?

I made the decision to stay in Serbia for two important reasons. The first is people, my family, friends, and the community to which I belong. The second is my desire to contribute to positive changes in society. I enjoy challenges and was aware of the potential that exists here for advancing and implementing modern sustainable development practices.

Through participation in international programs and conferences, I gained valuable knowledge, skills, and insight into how the concept of sustainable development is applied in different countries. These experiences showed me that knowledge reaches its full value only when it can be transferred into a local context.

At a time when sustainability has become an increasingly relevant topic in Serbia, my previous work, dedication, and initiative were recognized through the opportunity to begin my career at Coca-Cola HBC Serbia and Montenegro, within a business system that views sustainability as a strategic priority not only locally, but also at the European and global level. Working in such an environment has enabled me to create added value, continuously learn, and develop professionally. All these experiences and opportunities have strengthened my decision to continue my professional development in Serbia.

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