“Companies that want serious growth today must think regionally.”
As the business world adapts to the rapid development of artificial intelligence, digital transformation and profound shifts in the labour market, the role of business leaders across the region is undergoing a fundamental transformation. As one of Montenegro’s most influential business organisations, the Association of Managers of Montenegro (AMM) has in recent years increasingly focused on leadership, innovation, ESG standards, digital transformation and the future of work, actively contributing to the development of a modern business environment.
In an interview with The Region, AMM President Budimir Raičković discusses a new generation of leaders, the importance of regional business expansion and the reasons why small markets can no longer afford to think within their own borders.
AMM is today one of the most relevant business platforms in Montenegro and the region, opening key discussions about the future of business through numerous initiatives, events and partnerships. In recent years, you have further intensified activities around topics such as artificial intelligence, ESG standards, leadership and the future of work. How is the role of managers in the region changing today?
The role of managers is changing faster than ever before. In the past, it was enough to deliver strong business results and maintain a stable company. Today, much more is expected from leaders — they must understand technology, adapt to changes in the labour market, know how to retain talented people and lead companies in a responsible and sustainable way.
This is precisely why AMM has devoted increasing attention to these issues in recent years. Artificial intelligence, ESG standards, digital transformation and the future of work are no longer topics of the future — they are the reality of today.
If the business community does not start discussing them in time, we risk falling behind the region, Europe and the wider world.
Today, AMM brings together serious companies and leaders who want to exchange knowledge, experience and ideas that can improve the business environment. I believe that the responsibility of a leadership organisation is not only to celebrate success, but also to address the challenges that lie ahead.
For companies from Montenegro, is regional expansion today primarily a matter of ambition, or is it increasingly becoming a question of longterm sustainability and survival?
I believe it is both. Regional expansion is certainly a sign of ambition and strength, but for a small economy such as Montenegro’s, it is increasingly becoming a matter of long-term sustainability.
Companies that want serious growth today must think regionally. What encourages me is that we are seeing more and more domestic companies with the knowledge, quality and confidence to compete beyond Montenegro’s borders.
It is important to view the region as a space for cooperation, not only competition
It is important to view the region as a space for cooperation, not only competition. Small markets have their limitations when viewed individually, but when connected they can create much greater development potential. Through stronger regional integration, we can create more opportunities for investment, innovation and more substantial economic growth.
AMM today brings together a broad spectrum of leaders — from large corporate systems to young entrepreneurs, innovators and the technology community. Is a new generation of business leaders emerging in Montenegro with a different understanding of business, success and leadership?
Absolutely. I believe that a new generation of business leaders is emerging in Montenegro with a more modern, open and courageous approach to business.
These individuals invest heavily in knowledge, innovation, technology and employee development. At the same time, they think regionally and internationally far more naturally than previous generations.
What particularly encourages me is the new energy and modern business culture being brought by young entrepreneurs and professionals from the IT and technology sectors. They are often more willing to take risks, make decisions faster and are far less attached to outdated business models and hierarchies. That is a very positive signal for the future of Montenegro’s economy.
As one of the initiators of regional cooperation among management organisations back in 2016, how do you view business cooperation in Southeast Europe today?
I am convinced that the business community can become one of the key drivers of stronger regional connectivity across the Western Balkans and beyond. Business naturally seeks cooperation and the integration of markets, people and ideas.
As early as 2016, there was a clear awareness that the region needed stronger cooperation through business organisations and that managers had an important role to play in that process. Today, that may be more important than ever.
Southeast Europe possesses significant potential, but to fully unlock it we need greater mutual trust, more joint initiatives and stronger regional partnerships. I believe business leaders can play a major role in creating a more modern, connected and competitive region.
