In a bold move to bolster its energy sector, North Macedonia’s state-owned power utility, Elektrani na Severna Makedonija (ESM), has unveiled a new leadership team tasked with steering the company through a critical period of transformation. At the helm is Lazo Uzunčev, a seasoned mechanical engineer with a wealth of experience in private sector management, who steps in as the new President of the Board of Directors and General Manager. His appointment, following a government recommendation, marks a pivotal shift in ESM’s strategy as it seeks to enhance its operational efficiency and financial health.
Joining Uzunčev on the newly appointed Board are key figures poised to lead ESM’s ambitious agenda. Redžep Asani takes the role of Deputy General Manager, while Đorđi Đorđijevski oversees Legal and General Affairs. Zoran Konjanovski is charged with managing Electricity Generation, Viktor Jovanovski steps in as Commercial Director, Ivan Stojanovski handles Financial Affairs, and Vladimir Pejoski leads Development and Investments. Together, this team is set to drive ESM towards greater energy stability, a critical goal in the face of growing demands and stringent environmental standards.
Uzunčev and his team are not just inheriting roles; they are taking on the challenge of reshaping ESM into a leaner, more competitive force in the energy market. Their agenda is clear: streamline costs, launch forward-thinking development projects, and ensure that ESM not only meets the electricity needs of North Macedonia’s consumers but does so with a keen eye on market trends and environmental sustainability.
This leadership overhaul comes on the heels of North Macedonia’s recent government change, with Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski appointing Sanja Božinovska as the new Minister of Energy, Mining, and Mineral Resources. Božinovska has made it clear that her priority is to address the inefficiencies and corruption that have plagued ESM and the national transmission system operator MEPSO. Her support for the new ESM management underscores the urgent need for reform within the country’s energy sector, aiming to secure a sustainable and resilient future for North Macedonia.
