In the latest episode of the podcast Business Club, the President of the Economic Chamber of North Macedonia, Branko Azeski, speaks with three female managers who are making a mark in the Chamber’s operations. They are determined, persistent, decisive, and radical in their views about achieving a better future in business.

Angelka Peeva-Laurenčić, M.A., emphasizes that everything is business and that through her work, she showcases another side of business, bringing it closer to a different target audience beyond just consumers and buyers.

"We should create space for business to be presented to the public in a humane and appealing way, whether through marketing to the general public, public relations, or field promotions. There is a range of activities aimed at showcasing business to various audiences and the general public, and this in itself is also business," Peeva-Laurenčić noted.

According to her, anyone wanting to start a business should focus on identifying a need rather than fixating on a product, as there’s always something missing in the market that someone requires.

Marija Dukovska-Pavlovska, M.Sc., Manager of Makstil AD Skopje and President of the Chamber’s Center for Circular Economy, focuses on minimizing waste or achieving zero waste in operations. This aligns with the concept of the circular economy, a relatively new business model based on three principles: eliminating waste and pollution, keeping products and materials in use as long as possible, and preserving natural resources. M.Sc. Pavlovska views the Center as a state partner in aligning national legislation with EU regulations and UN objectives.

"The Center for Circular Economy involves all key stakeholders directly impacted by the laws being passed in the context of the circular economy. It is a broad concept that includes the green agenda, green skills, CBAM calculations, and decarbonization," she stated.

In discussing corruption with President Azeski, at both national and regional levels—a topic few are willing to address—Dr. Anita Blazhevska highlighted that corruption is a massive blocker to a country’s development and that radical measures are needed to combat it.

"Globally, and particularly in Macedonia, corruption is a significant barrier to development. Over the past 30 years of Macedonia's independence, it has been one of the major factors behind our low GDP growth. Decisive steps are needed, possibly including the adoption of a Law on Asset Origin, promoting cashless transactions, reducing cash payments, and revising the Law on Political Party Financing. These are concrete measures," Dr. Blazhevska stated.

She also advocated for a leaner government, digitalized services, and public transparency in addressing and resolving issues.

In the podcast, the relationship between politics and business was also explored. Peeva-Laurenčić, M.A., who has experience in both spheres, discussed the differences between being a politician and a businessperson:

"In politics, you often feel that many things revolve around you, and you enjoy a relatively comfortable position. You debate issues without tight deadlines, and you can afford to let a day pass without accomplishing much. However, the price you pay in politics is a form of obedience to the leader you follow, and this cost is evident as soon as you enter politics. Our political pluralism has stifled diverse opinions and lobbying, resulting in a sharp decline in the quality of personnel, especially evident in Parliament over the years."

She continued: "On the other hand, business is much more dynamic, responsible, and disciplined. As a business leader, you're responsible not only for yourself and your family but also for your employees and their families. In business, there cannot be missed days or deadlines if you want to survive in the market. If you aim to lead the market, you must go beyond expectations."

According to her, anyone aspiring to enter politics should first work in business to understand how to create value and navigate challenging markets like Macedonia’s before transitioning to politics, considering its multifaceted uniqueness. Only after that can one enter politics, where they would understand the harm dealt to businesses and who in fact creates the new value that feeds the retirees, the healthcare system, education, and the infrastructure projects.

When comparing domestic and foreign companies in the conversation with President Azeski, Dr. Blazhevska, who holds a leadership position in an international company, stated:

"First and foremost, starting with my company, it’s about the care and approach the company takes toward its employees and their development, as well as the adherence to standards in terms of product quality. Macedonian companies that meet and respect quality standards are also recognized outside Macedonia."

Dr. Pavlovska, Manager of Makstil, emphasized: "Makstil is part of a large international group, yet it retains many Macedonian values. The primary difference lies in expressing opinions. In companies with a stronger international culture, employees feel freer to speak up and report irregularities. In contrast, companies with more of a Macedonian culture see fewer reports due to employees' lack of trust in the discretion of such systems. Mentality and culture are the fundamental differences between domestic and foreign companies."