The latest episode of the Business Club podcast, hosted by Branko Azeski, President of the Economic Chamber of North Macedonia, featured Marija Kumbaroska-Vanbesin, a trusted advisor for strategic executive recruitment at the consulting firm Korn Ferry in Brussels. She shared her views on the importance of human resources in driving growth and development within organizations and the need for continuous investment in knowledge and skill-building.

During the conversation, Kumbaroska-Vanbesin emphasized that technology is evolving rapidly within companies, requiring new approaches and strategies for handling certain processes. She stressed that human resources must remain at the forefront and be fully integrated for businesses to function at their best. In her opinion, in today’s world of hybrid work models and teams spread across different locations, it’s essential to align teams properly to enhance productivity and achieve better results. However, she also pointed out that while technology enables greater efficiency, it reduces human interaction, which can have negative consequences.

During the episode, Kumbaroska-Vanbesin addressed concerns that AI will replace many professions, including management and consulting, the fields she works in. However, she believes AI should be seen as a valuable tool that can be used daily to improve efficiency, accuracy, and speed. While it can help businesses make data-driven decisions, it should not be the main driver of strategic decision-making.

She began her career as a research analyst at a leading research firm, gaining deep insight into industry processes. Over the years, she progressed to operational manager and later became a partner. Before joining Korn Ferry, she worked as an engagement manager at Eric Salmon & Partners.

In the second part of her conversation with the President of the Economic Chamber Azeski, she discussed the mission of her company, which focuses on identifying top professionals for executive roles and enhancing workforce performance—not only in the private sector, but also in the public sector, particularly in state administration. According to her firm's research, hybrid work models will continue to shape the workplace—employees will increasingly seek flexibility, and employers will need to adapt to this new reality. AI is also expected to transform industries such as pharmaceuticals and banking, pushing companies to invest in employee training and skill development.

When asked about the labor shortage, Kumbaroska-Vanbesin highlighted two main reasons: the emigration of young, highly skilled professionals—individuals who could hold top leadership positions domestically are instead pursuing opportunities abroad, and a shift in mindset among younger generations—unlike previous generations, they refuse to take just any job. She explained that today’s youth have clear career goals and expectations, and if a job doesn’t align with their personal ambitions, they won’t take it. This is a major shift compared to past generations, particularly in former Yugoslavia, where people prioritized stability, hard work, and career progression.