Ilija Čičak: “Every Project Has Its Own Story”

„After working at KONČAR, my professional path led me to HELB. To be honest, I could not have predicted how much the company would develop over the years. From the very beginning, we worked with great enthusiasm and ambition, constantly investing in skilled people and new projects. Thanks to the dedication of the entire team, we grew year after year, from around 150 employees to nearly 300 today. It is rewarding to be part of such a story and to witness its development firsthand.”

2. How would you describe your job to someone who is hearing about the role of a Project Manager for the first time?

„The role of a Project Manager is highly dynamic and requires a certain level of commitment and sacrifice. You are often available beyond regular working hours, travel frequently to project sites, and coordinate a wide range of activities. Administrative tasks often come at the end of the day. On the other hand, this variety is what makes the job so interesting. You are not sitting behind a computer all day. Instead, you are constantly interacting with people, colleagues, and partners while actively participating in project execution on site.”

3. Is there a particular project that stands out in your memory, either because of the challenges involved or because you are especially proud of it?

„After nearly 150 projects, it is difficult to single out just one. Each project had its own unique characteristics and challenges. However, some experiences remain especially memorable. For example, flying in an open helicopter over the Gulf of Mexico, during which I did not see land for four hours, was truly a unique experience. I also remember a ferry journey through Egypt that, due to weather conditions, turned from a planned two-day trip into four days and four nights at sea.”

„One of the most demanding periods was working on an offshore platform in the Gulf of Mexico, where we spent more than three months working 16 to 18 hours a day to complete the project within the planned timeframe. Challenges like these stay with you for a lifetime.”

4. HELB is now part of KONČAR. How did you experience that change, and what has it brought?

„It is certainly a significant change, especially after spending so many years in one organization. Since the process is still relatively recent, we are currently getting to know each other and aligning our ways of working. I have always believed that people make the difference, which is why it is important to first get to know new colleagues and build strong relationships. Major projects lie ahead of us, and I believe that combining our experience and knowledge will create many new opportunities.”

5. In your opinion, what is most important for a project to succeed: good organization, the team, or something else?

„The foundation of every successful project is high-quality and well-prepared project documentation. When things are clearly defined, it becomes much easier to organize the work and make the right decisions. Of course, competent colleagues, experienced professionals, and reliable business partners are equally important. When expertise, good preparation, and mutual trust come together, almost any challenge can be successfully overcome.”

6. When you compare the early days with today, how much has the job changed?

„The job has changed significantly. Today there is much more administration and many more digital tools than there used to be. I am aware that technology brings numerous advantages and that this evolution is a natural part of business development. However, I belong to a generation that particularly values direct communication and face-to-face conversations. In my opinion, many things are still resolved most effectively through personal interaction.”

7. What would you say to someone who is considering working at KONČAR – HELB one day?

„I would tell them that, alongside professional knowledge, it is very important to understand people, how they think, collaborate, and work. Our business is built on relationships, communication, and teamwork. If someone is ready for a dynamic, challenging, and engaging career that offers new experiences and development opportunities, then KONČAR – HELB is certainly a place I would recommend.”

8. And what do you, Ilija, enjoy doing in your free time?

„In my free time, I enjoy mowing the lawn at home. My wife and I also love going to the cinema and spending time by the sea. We are particularly fond of Southern Dalmatia, a region we always enjoy returning to.”