Online lecture “Strategy on A4”
15. September 2021.
Job opening – Project assistant (closed)
7. October 2021.ALUMNI STORY
Jana Blažević Marčelja
The year of study completion at EFRI: 2000.
Current work position: Deputy Director at the Step Ri Science and Technology Park of the University of Rijeka
“The knowledge I gained at EFRI was a good basis for upgrading and developing the competencies I use today in the work I do.”
1In addition to being the Deputy Director, you are the head of the Step Ri Education Center. Among other activities, you work to promote innovation and entrepreneurship. When did you discover in which direction you want to develop your career? How has your professional path gone from graduation to the present day?
Immediately after graduating, I got a job at an insurance company. I worked there for nine years during which I went through a number of departments and jobs - from sales, through control, all the way to the product development sector. In the product development sector, I was involved in portfolio analysis and insurance price lists, development of new IT solutions, preparation of offers for VIP clients and development of new insurance packages. Working in this highly competitive industry has led me to a desire for a change and a break from existing frameworks. At that time, the first science and technology park in Croatia was opened in Rijeka. The fact that this is something new and unknown prompted me to change my career, and I have been in Step since March 2009.
2What part of the job would you single out as your favorite? What motivates you in your daily work?
At Step, we work with scientists, entrepreneurs and those who want to become one. Working with different groups and the help we provide them in starting and improving their business, as well as in the process of knowledge or technology transfer, makes this job extremely interesting and dynamic. I am most happy when the users of our support achieve their goals with our help
3To what extent has EFRI influenced your career choice and your current approach to work?
My career was more conditioned by business opportunities that opened up at the right time. Certainly, the knowledge I acquired at EFRI was a good basis for upgrading and developing the competencies that I use today in the work I do.
4What is your message to other alumni, present and future?
Economics is a very broad area that will allow you to do what you love.
