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INTERIM MANAGEMENT SLOVENIA / CROATIA

In an increasingly dynamic and globalized business world, success in the Slovenia and Croatia region requires flexibility, expertise and rapid adaptability. Our interim services offer you tailor-made solutions to effectively overcome challenges and exploit opportunities in a targeted manner. With deep market understanding and local expertise, we support you in successfully advancing your projects, using your resources efficiently and achieving your business goals in this diverse and growing economic region. Trust in our experience and precision – for sustainable success in Slovenia and Croatia.

Your contact at IQX:

Klaus Struc

+43 670 404 03 40
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The main industries in the region

Automotive industry and suppliers

The automotive industry is extremely important in Slovenia and Croatia and is a central driver of economic development. Slovenia has established itself as an important location for production and supply in the automotive industry. Particularly noteworthy is the Revoz factory in Novo Mesto, a subsidiary of Renault that produces vehicles for the European market. Slovenia is also home to numerous suppliers that produce highly specialized components for the automotive industry, from electronics to drive systems to lightweight materials.

Croatia, although less known for mass vehicle production, has made a name for itself in the high-performance and electric vehicle niche. Rimac Automobili, based near Zagreb, has attracted international attention with its groundbreaking electric super sports cars. Rimac is not only a symbol of Croatia's innovative strength, but also plays an important role in the global development of electromobility. The company works closely with major automobile manufacturers and delivers technologies that will be integrated into the vehicles of tomorrow.

Overall, the automotive industry in Slovenia and Croatia is closely linked to the large European automotive centers in Germany, Austria and Italy. This region benefits from its strategic location and its ability to offer high quality products at competitive prices. The focus on research and development, combined with a well-trained workforce, ensures that the automotive industry in Slovenia and Croatia will continue to play a central role in the future.

Mechanical engineering and metal processing

Mechanical engineering and metalworking are traditionally strong industries in Slovenia and Croatia. These sectors have deep roots in the industrial history of both countries and are characterized by a high level of expertise and precision. Slovenia has earned a reputation as a producer of high-precision machinery and equipment that is exported worldwide. The production of machine tools, hydraulic systems and automation technology, which are used in a wide variety of industries, is particularly strong.

In Croatia, shipbuilding plays a special role within mechanical engineering. The Croatian coast, with its deep harbors and long traditions in maritime trade, has made shipbuilding an important industry. Shipyards such as the Uljanik Group in Pula and the 3rd Maj Shipyard in Rijeka have built high-quality ships for decades that are in use around the world. Although Croatian shipbuilding has faced challenges in recent years, it remains an important part of the industry and a symbol of the country's technical expertise.

In addition, there are a large number of medium-sized companies in both countries that specialize in metal processing. These companies produce everything from simple components to complex machine parts and contribute significantly to the region's export economy. Mechanical engineering and metalworking in Slovenia and Croatia benefit from a well-educated skilled workforce and a close connection between industry and technical training, making the region a competitive manufacturing location in Europe.

Chemical industry and pharmaceuticals

The chemical industry and the pharmaceutical sector are key sectors in the Slovenia and Croatia region, internationally recognized for their innovation and product quality. Slovenia has established itself as a center of pharmaceutical production, with companies such as Krka and Lek (part of Sandoz, a division of Novartis) operating globally. These companies develop and produce a wide range of medicines, from generic drugs to highly specialized therapeutics, and export their products to over 70 countries.

The pharmaceutical sector in Slovenia benefits from a strong focus on research and development as well as a well-connected higher education system that continuously produces well-trained professionals. Proximity to important markets in the European Union and a stable regulatory environment make Slovenia an attractive location for pharmaceutical companies. However, the chemical industry in Slovenia and Croatia does not only include the production of pharmaceuticals. Both countries produce a variety of commodity and specialty chemicals used in various industries, including agriculture, food processing and automotive.

The chemical industry is also well developed in Croatia, with a focus on the production of fertilizers, paints and varnishes. The sector is characterized by a mix of large, established companies and innovative start-ups that specialize in the development of new materials and chemicals. Both countries are increasingly focusing on sustainability and environmentally friendly production methods, making them pioneers in the development of “green” chemicals. The chemical industry and pharmaceuticals therefore contribute significantly to economic stability and growth in Slovenia and Croatia.

Ljubljana and central Slovenia

Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia, is the economic and industrial heart of the country. Numerous companies from different sectors are concentrated here, including the pharmaceutical industry, electrical engineering and mechanical engineering. The Krka company, one of the leading generics manufacturers in Europe, is based here and has a significant influence on the region. The electronics industry is also well represented with companies such as Iskra, a leading provider of electrical components.

Central Slovenia also benefits from a well-developed infrastructure and a high level of innovation, which is promoted by the close connections between universities, research centers and industry. This region is a hub for logistics and trade, which further increases its attractiveness for international companies.

Gorenjska (Upper Carniola)

The Gorenjska region in northwestern Slovenia is known for its strong engineering and metalworking industries. The town of Kranj, the center of this region, is home to important companies such as Sava Tires, a leading tire manufacturer that operates internationally. The electronics industry is also represented here, particularly by companies like Iskraemeco, which produce smart meters and measurement technology.

Gorenjska is also strongly export-oriented, with the region's products going primarily to Western Europe and the USA. The proximity to the Alps and the associated tourist infrastructure complement the region's industrial profile and provide a diversified economic base.

Savinjska (Lower Styria)

The Savinjska region in eastern Slovenia, particularly the city of Celje, has a long tradition in the metal and chemical industries. Celje, known as “the city of princes,” is a historic center of trade and production. Today, companies such as Cinkarna Celje, a leading manufacturer of titanium dioxide, are based here. Plastics processing also plays an important role in the regional economy.

In recent years, the region has also established itself as a location for the automotive supply industry, which is supported by the good connection to the European transport network and the proximity to important markets in Austria and Germany.

Podravska (Drava Region)

The Podravska region, with the city of Maribor as its center, is another important industrial area in Slovenia. Maribor, the country's second largest city, has a strong mechanical engineering and electrical industry. Companies such as Hidria, a leading manufacturer of automotive components, and Talum, a major aluminum producer, have their locations here.

The region is also known for its innovation, particularly in the areas of energy efficiency and renewable energy. The close cooperation between the University of Maribor and local industry promotes the development of new technologies and strengthens the region's competitiveness at the international level.

Zagreb and northern Croatia

Zagreb, the capital of Croatia, is the country's industrial center. Many important companies from the fields of mechanical engineering, chemistry, food processing and the pharmaceutical industry are located here. Companies like Pliva, one of Europe's largest generic drug manufacturers, are based in Zagreb and contribute significantly to economic development.

The region of northern Croatia, including the cities of Varaždin and Čakovec, is also heavily industrialized, with a focus on textile and electronics production. Varaždin is known for its textile industry, which has a long tradition, while Čakovec is a center for the electrical industry.

Istria and Primorje-Gorski Kotar

The Istria and Primorje-Gorski Kotar region, with cities such as Rijeka and Pula, is known for its shipbuilding industry. The shipyards in Rijeka, such as the 3rd Maj Shipyard, have a long tradition in shipbuilding and are important employers in the region. Pula, the largest city in Istria, also has a strong industrial base, particularly in the areas of shipbuilding supplies and metal processing.

The region is also known for its tourism industry, which is an important source of income and is closely linked to the local economy. This diversification makes the region more economically stable and resilient to global fluctuations.

Dalmatia

Dalmatia, with cities such as Split and Zadar, is another major industrial center in Croatia. Split, the largest city in the region, is an important location for shipbuilding, metal and chemical industries. The Brodosplit shipyard is one of the best-known companies in the region and has a long tradition in shipbuilding.

Zadar, another important city in Dalmatia, has developed in recent years as a center for food processing and tourism. The region benefits from its location on the Adriatic coast and well-developed tourist infrastructure, which diversifies and strengthens the local economy.

Why IQX for Interim Management?

We know: Consulting often ends where the actual change begins. That's exactly why we do more than just make smart recommendations - we take responsibility and implement them. From our many years of experience as management consultants, we know the challenges that companies face when it comes to not only developing strategies, but also successfully implementing them.

This is where our unique approach comes in: We not only offer in-depth analyzes and tailor-made concepts, but also accompany you through the implementation as interim managers. As part of your team, we work directly in your company, take on operational responsibility and ensure that changes really take effect.

Our advantage? We already know your business from an in-depth analysis, know the details and have an unbiased view of the existing structures. This enables us to act faster and more targeted. While other interim managers still have to understand the context, we are already in the middle of the action - with the knowledge of a consultant and the determination of a manager.

Our combination of consulting expertise and operational leadership ensures that we don't just talk, but act. We create clarity, provide guidance and get things moving while at the same time setting the course for long-term success. The end result is a company that is not only more stable, but also emerges stronger from the change.

Our services for the Slovenia / Croatia region:

  • Interim Managing Director / CEO
  • Interim CRO
  • Interim plant manager
  • Interim COO
  • Interim CFO
  • Interim HR Manager
  • Interim production manager
  • Interim IT Manager (CIO)
  • Interim Purchasing Manager
  • Operations functions
  • Interim project management
  • Implementation-oriented consulting

Task force management