Interview. Part 2

Here is Part 1 of the interview with Irina.

It's fascinating to hear how your journey unfolded, from seizing opportunities in Kazakhstan to envisioning expansion into Europe. Can you elaborate on how you navigated the process of establishing a presence in Austria and Germany?

Certainly. My passion for Austria, laid at school by my German teacher - by the way, it was my favorite subject - grew into a desire to first visit this country, and then to explore the possibility of relocating there. With guidance from 1C experts like Andrei Gurkin, who is part of 1Ci now, I began to envision the potential for our company to thrive in European markets. 1C is what I know, what I love and with Andrey’s support I realized that it might be demanded in Austria and I can share my experience with this market. It was a combination of strategic planning, market research, and networking that paved the way for our expansion efforts.

It's impressive how you turned your vision into reality. Your approach to business development is truly strategic. Can you share some insights into how you maintain the success and growth of your company?

One key factor is our commitment to continuous learning and adaptation. We actively participate in industry events, such as exhibitions and seminars, to stay informed about the latest trends and technologies. Additionally, our focus on building strong relationships with clients and suppliers has been instrumental in sustaining our growth trajectory.

It's clear that your passion for your work drives your success. Irina you mentioned involving your children in the business to ensure its continuity. Could you elaborate on how you're preparing your daughters to take on leadership roles within the company?

Of course. My approach involves exposing them to different aspects of the business from an early age, providing them with hands-on experience, and encouraging them to develop their skills and interests. Whether it's through internships during their study breaks or involving them in decision-making processes, I want to instill in them a sense of responsibility and ownership.

That sounds like a comprehensive approach. How do you balance the roles of parent and mentor within the business context?

It's definitely a delicate balance, but I believe it's essential to separate the two roles while also recognizing the overlap. As a parent, my primary concern is their well-being and personal development. As a mentor, I provide guidance, support, and opportunities for growth within the business. Clear communication and setting boundaries help maintain this balance.

I'd like to delve into the core values that drive your business. Could you share with us what you believe are the fundamental principles guiding your company?

Absolutely. For me, the most essential value in business is the concept of long-term partnerships. We don't just see our clients as transactions; we see them as long-term partners. Our goal is to be there for them, providing not just products or services but genuine assistance and support in achieving their goals.

That's a commendable approach. Can you elaborate on how this philosophy translates into your day-to-day operations?

Certainly. We prioritize building strong relationships with our clients, understanding their needs deeply, and working alongside them as trusted partners. This means not only delivering what they ask for but also anticipating their future requirements and proactively offering solutions to help them succeed in the long run.

It's clear that fostering long-term relationships is at the core of your business strategy. How do you ensure that this value is ingrained throughout your organization?

Building a culture centered around long-term partnerships starts from within. We invest in our team, not just professionally but personally as well. We encourage continuous learning and growth, both in terms of professional skills and personal development. By nurturing a team that shares our values, we ensure that every interaction with our clients reflects our commitment to long-term partnerships.

That's a holistic approach to business indeed. Moving forward, could you share your vision for the future of your company?

In the coming years, I envision our company as a solid, established entity known for its unwavering dedication to its clients and its values. I also see my children gradually becoming more involved in the business, carrying on the legacy that we've built together. Ultimately, I hope to create a family business that spans generations, where each member contributes to its growth and success.

Your vision for the future is both ambitious and inspiring. Before we conclude, is there anything else you'd like to share with our audience?

I would just like to emphasize the importance of staying true to your values in business. In a world where trends come and go, values serve as our guiding light, helping us navigate challenges and opportunities with integrity and purpose.

Thank you, Irina, for sharing your insights and aspirations with us today. It's been a pleasure speaking with you.