In the spotlight: Denis Djurkovic, Operations Manager, Serbia
Shining a light on our fabulous team who are actively engaged in the field, we are delighted to catch-up with Denis Djurkovic, Operations Manager for our depot in Serbia. In this informal interview, we take a look at his role, his highlights and what he gets up to in his spare time.
What motivated you to start work at Oximio?
I was drawn to join Oximio primarily because of the alignment of its values with my own. As the Operations Manager, I found that Oximio places a strong emphasis on principles that resonate with me deeply. Additionally, my passion for pharmacy has always been a driving force in my professional journey, and Oximio offered me the opportunity to combine my expertise in operations with my love for the pharmacy field. Making a transition to a profession that aligns more closely with my personal and professional interests has been a motivating factor in my decision to join the Oximio team. I am excited to contribute to the company’s success while pursuing my passion for pharmacy in a meaningful way.
Tell us a little bit about your role and what a typical day looks like?
As the Operations Manager at Oximio Serbia, my role involves overseeing and optimizing various aspects of the daily operations. A typical day for me is dynamic and involves a diverse set of responsibilities. I work closely with the team to ensure smooth and efficient workflow within the depot.
My day typically starts with coordinating and prioritizing tasks, ensuring that orders are processed and dispatched on time. I actively engage with the team to address any operational challenges, providing guidance and support as needed. Inventory management is a crucial aspect of my role, where I monitor stock levels, coordinate restocking efforts, and implement strategies to minimize discrepancies.
Collaboration with different departments, such as logistics and procurement, is a regular part of my routine to streamline processes and enhance overall efficiency. This involves sourcing, negotiating contracts, monitoring inventory, ensuring quality compliance, maintaining documentation, optimizing costs, managing risks, aligning with strategic goals, and continuous process improvement. Effective procurement is vital for a seamless and compliant supply chain.
What I love the positive atmosphere that comes with contributing to the healthcare system. Knowing that our efforts in the depot directly impact people’s access to essential medications adds a meaningful dimension to my role. Overall, I find joy in the challenges and rewards that come with managing operations, where dedication and passion play a vital role in ensuring the well-being of our community.
What do you like most about your job?
In addition to my passion for pharmacy and the technical aspects of depot operations, I thoroughly enjoy the multifaceted nature of my role that involves a broader spectrum of skills and knowledge.
Having a strong understanding of Good Distribution Practices (GDP) is paramount in ensuring the quality and integrity of pharmaceutical products throughout the supply chain. This knowledge allows me to implement and maintain high standards, contributing to the overall safety and compliance of our operations.
Engaging in business development is another aspect that resonates with me. The opportunity to explore new avenues, foster collaborations, and contribute to the growth of the Oximio Serbia depot aligns with my enthusiasm for both the industry and strategic development.
Negotiation skills play a crucial role in my day-to-day interactions, whether it’s liaising with suppliers, collaborating with other departments, or addressing operational challenges. These skills enable me to navigate complexities, find mutually beneficial solutions, and ensure the smooth functioning of our depot.
Leadership is an integral part of my role, and I take pride in fostering a positive and collaborative work environment. Guiding and motivating my team, as well as instilling a shared commitment to our goals, are aspects of leadership that I find particularly rewarding.
In essence, the combination of my passion for pharmacy, technical expertise, and the diverse skill set involving GDP, business development, negotiation, and leadership collectively make my role not only enjoyable but also allow me to contribute meaningfully to the success of the Oximio Serbia.
What would you say was your best achievement or you are most proud of in your role?
Becoming the Operations Manager in this role stands out as my proudest achievement. I am immensely grateful for the opportunity to lead and contribute to the success of Oximio, Serbia. It reflects not only my dedication to the field but also the trust placed in me to oversee crucial aspects of operations. I am committed to continuing to strive for excellence and making a positive impact on both the team and the overall efficiency of our operations.
Is there something you are looking forward to within your job function in the year ahead?
In the coming year, I eagerly anticipate the prospect of expanding my role into the global sphere of the company. This presents a valuable opportunity for me to acquire additional knowledge and experience, contributing not only to my professional growth but also, more importantly, to the enhanced care of patients. I am enthusiastic about the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead and am dedicated to furthering my contributions to the broader success of our organization.
When you’re not working at Oximio, how do you like to spend your free time?
I have a passion for music. I love searching, listening to, and producing music. In 2002, at the age of 16, I became a DJ at Club Sirius on Zlatibor mountain. I worked there for three years and then moved to Belgrade. Here I started my professional career, working in many clubs, bars and restaurants. My music is made by beats of Nu Disco House, Deep House, Tech House and Afro House. I followed my appetite for music, and started to create new rhythms and produce new vibes for my fans.
I have been fortunate to have played my music in many different countries across Europe, at great venues, in Greece (Zakynthos and Corfu), Montenegro, Bosnia and Hercegovina, Croatia and Türkiye.
I became a co-owner of “Feel The Vibe” brand. This organization sets out to promote visual and musical creativity. From 2005 to the present day, we have gained a large circle of fans and friends! Our mission is to create music which inspires, uplifts and connects us to our essence.
You can follow my work here:
www.instagram.com/dennis_feelthevibe/
www.facebook.com/Dennis-301584386640921
@dennis-feelthevibe
www.mixcloud.com/djmasterdennis/
www.beatport.com/dj/charts/published
www.youtube.com/user/djdennismaster/videos
In the Spotlight: Kelly Toma, EA to CEO & SMT Support Manager
As part of our series to highlight our fabulous workforce, we are delighted to shine a light on Kelly Toma, EA to Oximio’s CEO and SMT Support Manager. The perfect example of the “iceberg theory”, Kelly radiates strength and calm above the surface but we know that she is juggling many balls behind the scenes. In this article Kelly tells us what inspired her to become an EA, what she enjoys most about her role and how she spends her free time.
What inspired you to start work as an EA?
From a young age, I felt a calling towards the role of Secretary (as it was known back then). My auntie, who was a PA in a prestigious firm in London, UK, served as a strong inspiration and role model for me. Witnessing her dedication and the impact she made in her role fuelled my aspiration to follow in her footsteps. I’ve always found fulfilment in supporting others and playing a behind-the-scenes role in ensuring smooth operations. The prospect of making a meaningful difference in someone else’s work life was what initially attracted me to pursue this career path. As an EA, I’m able to leverage my organisational skills and attention to detail in a dynamic and fast-paced environment, which aligns perfectly with my professional aspirations and personal inclinations.
Tell us a little bit about your role and what a typical day looks like?
My role is centred around delivering comprehensive support to our CEO while collaborating closely with Oximio Board members, the senior management team, and various teams within Oximio. A typical day for me begins by meticulously managing calendars, scheduling and coordinating meetings, and handling incoming correspondence with precision and efficiency. I prioritise tasks diligently to maintain efficiency and ensure that essential deadlines are met and key objectives are accomplished seamlessly.
Acting as a gatekeeper, I manage communications and requests to ensure that pertinent matters reach the CEO and senior management team promptly. Additionally, I am actively involved in managing various projects and initiatives aimed at driving organisational success.
Another integral aspect of my role involves overseeing internal communications and fostering collaboration among colleagues to facilitate smooth workflow and effective teamwork, particularly in our global environment.
What do you like most about your role?
What I appreciate most about my role is the opportunity to be a pivotal part of a team’s success. I enjoy the diverse range of tasks and challenges that come my way, as each day presents new opportunities for problem-solving and growth. Additionally, collaborating with all staff members and departments allows me to contribute to a cohesive and efficient work environment. The sense of accomplishment that comes from helping others achieve their goals is incredibly rewarding.
What would you say was your best achievement or you are most proud of in your role?
One of my proudest achievements to date is spearheading employee-led innovation initiatives, such as Ideabox and Accelerator. These programmes have not only promoted creativity and collaboration within Oximio but have also resulted in tangible improvements in our processes and services. Additionally, having the opportunity to present at the EVG PA/EA forum in Milan recently stands out as a particularly gratifying accomplishment. It allowed me to share insights, exchange ideas, and network with peers on an international platform, contributing to my professional growth and the recognition of Oximio’s innovative efforts.
Is there something you are looking forward to within your job function in the year ahead?
I am particularly excited about the opportunity to further develop my skills and take on new challenges in my recently acquired management role. Leading on administration, data & KPIs, innovation, and humanitarian efforts – all areas that are close to my heart. I’m eager to delve into these responsibilities, leveraging my skills and passion to drive positive change and make meaningful contributions to our team and organisation. I see this as an exciting opportunity for personal growth and professional fulfilment, and I’m committed to making a lasting impact in these key areas.
When you’re not working at Oximio, how do you like to spend your free time?
One of my main focuses this year is enhancing my fitness, which I’m achieving through regular walks with my beloved dog, Lenny, with the goal of transitioning to running.
Spending quality time with my family and friends is important to me. Travelling, especially with my husband and daughter, is a shared passion, as it allows us to explore new cultures and create lasting memories together. We’re particularly excited about our upcoming trip to Morocco during Easter.
Music has always held a special place in my heart, particularly from my youth. Meeting Marti Pellow, who was the lead singer of Wet Wet Wet, was a highlight for me last year, despite feeling a bit starstruck and at a loss for words – which is unusual for me! I’m excited to see him perform live again at the end of March.
Although I love to read fiction, it’s been a little challenging lately with my energetic 6-year-old daughter keeping me busy! But we do sneak in some reading time together whenever possible.
Do you have any personal/business goals you would like to achieve in the year ahead?
I am dedicated to exploring innovative strategies to optimise efficiency within our workflow, recognising the importance of staying ahead in a rapidly evolving work environment. Additionally, I am enthusiastic about pursuing further professional development opportunities to broaden my skill-set and enhance my contribution to Oximio’s success. I am particularly excited about embarking on a learning journey with the NOVA Chief of Staff qualification, which specifically aims to empower Executive Assistants like myself with the resources and education to elevate impact in our roles. Furthermore, my ongoing participation in the recently launched Oximio Leadership Academy underscores my commitment to continuous growth and development. These initiatives will not only deepen my knowledge but also equip me with the necessary tools to contribute even more effectively to the success of our team and Oximio.
In the Spotlight: Olena Koval, HR Data Manager
Olena Koval, HR Data Manager.
As we continue our behind the scenes look at the people at the heart of Oximio, we were delighted to learn from Olena Koval, HR Data Manager, about her entry into human resources, what she enjoys about her job and how she likes to spend her free time.
What inspired you to follow a career in HR?
Olena and Iryna Slugina, HR Business Partner.
I never thought I would be working in HR, but never say never. I graduated from the finance faculty and planned to develop further in this field, worked in banks in various positions, and I really liked my work until I decided to radically change the direction of work and join the Oximio team as a project specialist.
Already after half a year of work, I began to think about possible directions of development in the company, but I did not consider the HR department.
Less than a year after I joined, the war in Ukraine started. Thanks to the company, I ended up in Hungary, where I got to know the HR team better.
Embracing new challenges and opportunities is always invigorating. So when the HR department invited me to join their dynamic team, I readily accepted the proposal without any hesitation.
Tell us a little bit about your role and what a typical day looks like?
My day starts with a cup of coffee, checking my work email and calendar for the day, and tackling small tasks at hand. Then I make a plan for the day and prioritize tasks.
The main part of my day consists of setting up the current HR systems of Compass and E-days, adding new employees into the system, helping new and existing employees to use the systems, setting up and sending surveys and performance reviews. Preparation of various reports. The second most important task, which I now deal with almost every day, is the setting up of a new HR system, Zoho, that will be implemented soon.
What do you like most about your job
I enjoy helping people most in my work, also adjusting the system and looking for ways to improve processes.
What would you say was your best achievement or you are most proud of in your role?
My current role is as a team project manager for the implementation of the new HR system, and I am proud of it.
When you’re not working at Oximio, how do you like to spend your free time?
I spend my free time from work with my family. We go to the cinema, concerts, museums, zoo (when possible), or just walking. In the evenings we like to watch interesting movies together.
I go to the gym. I also like to paint pictures by numbers, embroider, knit, read, dance, and do crafts with my daughter, but there is not always enough time for it all, so I should choose every time.
Do you have any personal/business goals you would like to achieve in the year ahead?
I am in the process of achieving the biggest goal, which will be the transition to a new HR system.
It will be a very user-friendly HR system for everyone, with a very friendly and intuitive interface, all employees will be trained and provided with training materials to make the transition very smooth. In the new HR system, you can see the organization chart, book your vacation, complete a survey and carry out a performance review.
In the Spotlight: Erika Benkovics, Commercial Data Team Leader
As we continue to highlight our amazing staff across Oximio, we were delighted to catch-up with Erika Benkovics, Commercial Data Team Leader. Always ready to welcome you with a warming smile and helpful attitude, we were excited to learn more about Erika’s career at Oximio, her achievements and pride in her role – not forgetting, how she likes to relax in her free time.
What appealed to you about working at Oximio?
Before Oximio, my roles have been in the in the pharmaceutical industry, both in sales and finance. During the COVID period, I had the privilege of getting more insights into the clinical trials related to one of the vaccines. When I heard about the job opportunity at Oximio, I immediately felt that Oximio fulfilled my vision of a place I would be very happy to work in. In May 2024, I am now celebrating my 3rd anniversary – so I can now confirm I was not wrong.
Tell us a little bit about your Oximio journey, your existing role and responsibilities
I began my journey at Oximio as a CRM Specialist. I worked with the Sales Team on implementing the CRM system, and at the same time, we created the foundations of the Marketing department. After approximately 1 year, I was appointed as Marketing Operations Manager, and besides the CRM management, I gained more responsibilities with the website, events and other marketing activities. In 2023, in line with the company’s strategy and an increasing demand for data-driven requirements, I was offered and excited to take the role to lead this new department of Commercial Data Operations. In a nutshell, we are collecting, organising, analysing and utilising data related to all the commercial activities within Oximio.
I work together with Vitalii Talat, supporting the Chief Commercial Officer and other members of the Senior Management to prepare reports, data tables, charts, presentations, Excel and Power BI solutions. Outside of the Commercial Office, we also work with many teams within Oximio including the Finance Team, Business Development Office and also with all the country Managing Directors.
We also have to work to a very strict time schedule to ensure all reports are prepared in line with the monthly financial results and the quarterly commercial planning and review meetings.
What do you like most about your job?
What I really like about my role is the opportunity to be in contact with many colleagues across the organisation and find solutions for different problems together.
Although the analytical work may seem lonely, I am a real team player and believe that communication, knowledge and experience sharing are the keys to successful collaboration – and, actually, success itself.
What would you say was your best achievement or you are most proud of in your role?
I can say that my/our most significant achievement is our new department and how we managed to organise structure within the hundreds of data sources and navigate during the continuous changes and requests. We continuously strive to develop our processes to ensure we provide as accurate data as possible at the appropriate time to help improve decision-making and drive business growth.
Also, I would like to highlight that I am proud to be part of Oximio, which is made up of a fantastic bunch of people. I am continuously impressed by how many dedicated, helpful, and versatile colleagues I have around me.
When you’re not working at Oximio, how do you like to spend your free time?
I am a very passionate cat lover, and I have two Maine Coons, so especially because of them, I like to be at home and enjoy time together with them. This means that when I am at home, I can indulge in my other hobby, cooking. I take pleasure in preparing dishes not 100% based on the well-proven recipe but using my creativity to add something extra to create an unforgettable culinary experience. I also like gardening on my tiny balcony, I am addicted to buying new plants and flowers.
On the other hand, my husband and I share a passion for travelling, exploring new continents and countries, visiting new cities and places, trying new tastes, and meeting new people and cultures. This year, in February, we have been fortunate to visit the fabulous Malaysia and Thailand. We plan to spend some days during the summer in Italy and Croatia and, hopefully, during the autumn in Spain and Sweden.
And a final personal piece of information about myself is that I am a big fan of karaoke. Not just listening but singing.
Do you have any personal/business goals you would like to achieve in the year ahead?
My personal goal for the rest of the year is to do more physical exercise and sports because I believe that physical fatigue helps us sleep better. Good sleep is the basis of our physical and mental health. Also, physical strength makes us mentally stronger, which helps us handle stress better and prevent illnesses.
As a business goal, I would like to meet more colleagues from different functions and other locations. Personal contact and personal meetings have an enormous added value – they take future communication and collaboration to a higher level, which are essential factors of business development. Additionally, I would like to focus more on deepening the knowledge and skills I am learning and adapting during the sessions of the recently launched Oximio Leadership Academy to contribute even more effectively to the success of Oximio.