Could you please introduce yourself?

My name is Ilija Kjiroski. I have been living in Skopje for the past 31 years.

I am the Head of Marketing and Product Management at EVN Supply, which is one of the daughter companies of EVN in Macedonia. Over the last three years, my main focus has been product and business development in the renewable and energy efficiency sectors.

What prompted you to apply to the BUSINESS AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP DEVELOPMENT TRAINING: THE LEADER PROJECT?

Passion prompted me to apply to this business and entrepreneurship development training. In my opinion, it is the most important skill an entrepreneur should possess.

As a business developer within an international company, I knew that taking part in this project would be very beneficial, both professionally and personally.

Since I heard about this project, I began to collect information about it, and I was immediately convinced that I should apply. A great syllabus, the presence of amazing lecturers, a group of unique participants, as well as a tremendous networking system were the main reasons why I enrolled in this program. When I became a part of it, I considered one additional aspect – this is definitely the best personal development program… and I am not overstating it!

Can you please outline at least three main benefits from the program that helped you to extend your skills and abilities and business growth?

That is a difficult question to answer. Not because I cannot think of any benefits, but because I am not able to limit myself to just three.

Here, we were using the “business canvas” ideology at all times. Since then, it became my brainstorming tool for every product or project I am working on, and it helps me quite a lot in my career.

Furthermore, another key benefit is the utilization of idea generation and brainstorming, which are like a ‘Bible’ for product managers. This might sound funny, but I am even able to remember the video we were discussing then, and I would like to use this opportunity to share it with you and your future participants: IDEO Shopping Cart. It is a must see!

Another significant advantage was learning about the appropriate “sizing” and targeting of the market.. I can remember this information thoroughly, since it is really useful for my current role.

Finally, the most important benefit I gained was that many of my professional contacts, over time, turned into long-lasting and great relationships!