BIZLife “30 under 30” list: Marijana Pantovic, brand manager for energy drinks, „Knjaz Milos“

Mariana is a Bachelor of Economics, a brand manager for energy drinks in the company „Knjaz Milos“. She started her career at „Henkel“, where she acquired basic knowledge and fell in love with marketing. At the end of 2016, she became a part of the team of one of the largest producers of water, non-alcoholic and energy drinks in the region, where she continues to build a career on the leading brand in the energy drinks market – „Guarana“. In accordance with the character of the brand she leads, she tries to go through life bravely, with a firm attitude and a large dose of humour. Her motto is: There are no stupid questions – if you don’t know, ask and you will learn.

Why did you decide to stay in Serbia?

I believe that, like me, every young man has a desire to leave at some point during his studies or beginning of a career. Arriving from Zlatibor to Belgrade to attend studies was the first step, after which the question arose where to go next. However, leaving Serbia remained just an idea for me. The main reason is that I like to feel „on my own“. In addition, family and friends are a very important part of my life and, as much as the living conditions „out there“ may be better, without these two factors I would not be fulfilled. I always look at life and work with optimism: I believe that hard work, work on yourself, dedication and perseverance, with a small dose of luck, always lead to the fulfilment of personal goals. I believe that everyone can find their place under the sun, where they will be happy, satisfied and fulfilled. Whether this is a place in Serbia or somewhere over the border – it doesn’t matter.

What did you want to be when you were little?

A teacher, because why knowledge if we can’t pass it on!

Favourite school subject?

Mathematics, both in school and in life. Probably because 2 plus 2 must always be 4. 😊

Business role model?

In addition to all the wonderful people with whom I had the opportunity to work and from whom I learned a lot, and now there is an enviable number of them, I will single out the leading role model – my dad. 😊 He is engaged in beekeeping and for me he is the embodiment of how someone successfully does the job he loves, using will, desire and dedication, regardless of all the difficulties.

Izvor: BIZLife magazin