Richard Lucas
Chairman
Mr. Lucas is a British businessman who has been living in Poland for 17 years. He has founded many companies in Poland, and through companies he founded or has shares in, acts as agent or distributor for companies from Austria, Argentina, Belgium, Finland, France, Germany, Holland, Italy, Japan, Sweden, the UK and the USA. Prior to moving to Poland he worked for an international consulting group in Cambridge, England.
Karol Ko³t
Managing Director
Karol Kolt is Managing Director of PMR and has had responsibility for leading the company during the fastest growth period in its history. Karol studied International Management in Cracow and also at the universities of Frankfurt am Main and Nürnberg. Prior to joining PMR he worked with the senior management at several German companies. He started his career at PMR in consulting, working on a number of competitive intelligence, sourcing and strategy advisory projects, and was rapidly promoted to run the department as the Head of Consulting Services. Mr. Ko³t joined PMR's Management Board in 2006 as Vice President with all the departmental and functional managers reporting to him directly. He has been responsible for overseeing the day-to-day management of the company and leading the formulation and implementation of strategy. A strong believer in a straight forward, "getting things done" business culture, Karol's ambition is to grow the company fast while keeping it an attractive place to work for talented people, and a great company for clients to do business with.
Stathis Karaplios
Head of Consulting Services
Experience in PMR- general introduction
Since my first day in PMR I was involved in doing market research, sourcing and strategic advisory projects for well-known international companies. The scope of the projects PMR works on is very wide ranging from market intelligence and competitive intelligence reports to sourcing, M&A and business assistance projects what helped me in getting experience in doing different kinds of the consulting projects in various sectors and countries.
Experience (by sectors, branches etc) more »
I conducted many market research projects in all CEE countries. The projects were not limited to one sector only ranging from pharmaceuticals and FMCG to metal processing and construction materials. Very often market research projects include market enrty strategy or marketing strategy recommendations. Sometimes, when the particular market is very price sensitive we also find and recommend appropriate sourcing partner to reduce the costs. Our main goal is to understand the client's needs and solve all the problems our client may have in doing business in the region. This include current problems as well as the problems that may occur in the future, which we can predict due to our experience in doing business in Central and Eastern Europe.
I carried out a lot of strategic advisory projects - both as a team member and the project manager. One of the most interesting was the project in the aviation sector consisting of best localization for MRO base selection and an evaluation of qualified labour force availability. The project was conducted in Poland, the Ukraine, Czech Republic, Latvia, Estonia and Romania. The project's methodology included face to face interviews with licensed aircraft engineers and aircraft mechanics with relevant experience. As a result the client received a comprehensive report which described each of the selected localizations recommending one, where MRO base should be located. The report also indicated the way people with relevant skills should be approached and information about their financial and non-financial recommendations.
The majority of the M&A studies I have been working on were not limited in their geographical coverage to one or two countries, but were conducted in all CEE countries. In this cases we conduct preliminary study to prepare a long list of the potential M&A targets at least initially meeting the client's requirements. An initial number of the companies, which very often exceeds 100, is being reduced during the next stages. The most promissing M&A targets - meeting the client's requirements in terms of capacity and his budget constrains - are described in details. As the final report the client receives detailed profiles of the selected companies, including detailed machinery park description, possition on the market and financial analysis. PMR also helps the client with both initial and final negotiations providing him with business assistance services. The company which PMR recommends are being successfully acquired in 99% of the cases.
Sourcing is an area of my greatest experience. I have been working on the sourcing projects for the world's top 5 oil company on the constant basis looking for good value for money solutions in CEE area. My sourcing experience includes also working in the following sectors: metal processing, home appliances, plastics, office products, materials handling, pulp and paper and electronics. Our services do not include only listing the companies meeting the clients requirements. We also prepare detailed profiles of the companies, conduct on-site visits, take care of an initial negotiations and make sure the cooperation will be win-win type. In most of the cases we also help in the final negotiations having an asset of knowing local language, culture and the way of doing business. I always care about communication between the client and a potential sourcing partner, as in my opinion personal relations are key in doing business in CEE region.
Info on education & languages more »
During my studies at the Cracow University of Economics I focused on international relations and international management which have always been of my interest. I had an opportunity to spend few months at Universidad de Navarra in Spain as a scholarship holder. Except for Polish I speak fluent English and Spanish. I can also communicate in Greek, due to my roots and in Czech as I spent a lot of time working on the sourcing and M&A projects in the Czech Republic.
The thing I like most about PMR
more »
First of all I like people I work with. I believe it is very important, as the projects we do in PMR are challenging and very often require team work. I also very much appreciate an international environment in PMR, as I have an opportunity to work with people having different cultural background on the everyday basis, what on one hand is very interesting and on the other helps me in developing interpersonal skills, which are crucial in doing any kind of business. I also appreciate very much that all PMR's employees can develop their own ideas of doing business within the organization provided they prove it can be profitable.
I like travelling and I have already visited many interesting parts of the world, travelling both on private and on business while working on the projects. I particularly like Central and Eastern Europe. I also enjoy playing basketball and moutain biking. I sing in the local band in Krakow and music is one of my greatest interests.
My hint for candidates more »
Try not to feel nervous during the job interview, people in PMR are nice. Only being relaxed you can show us how smart you are. Do not be afraid of asking questions, job interview is not only an opportunity for us to ask you questions, but also for you to find out who we are and what we do.
Agnieszka Saintemarie
Principal Consultant
Experience in PMR- general introduction
From the very beginning of my career at PMR I have been involved in various projects for many types of clients coming from diffrent countries and active in many industries. The necessity of fast learning as well as the possibility of working individually and in teams and high level of independence and responsibility has helped to develop my time and project management skills.
Experience (by sectors, branches etc) more »
Partner search in the healthcare segment and market report. The research I conducted aimed at giving the client understanding of the Polish healthcare segment and finding an appropriate partner on this market.
Market research in the FMCG sector, focusing on cosmetics and toiletries with the objective of creating indepth reports for major players in the cosmetics sector, helping them to make strategic decisions. The studies covered not only CEE countries but also other Western European countries.
Consulting projects regarding construction machinery and the use of steel in the construction segment. The market research I conducted within the sector involved two CEE countries: Poland and the Ukraine. The most valuable experience from managing these projects is the learning about new processes, as I had not worked in the construction sector before.
Market intelligence in finance sector for a leading European financial institution. I participated in a study based on in-depth market research and mystery shopping in one of the banking segments on the Polish market. Our support resulted in our client's successful entry on the market.
Info on education & languages more »
I studied in various countries and universities where I could benefit from diffrent ways of sharing knowledge about international business, marketing, market research and many other related areas. I have obtained a BBA degree from the American Business School in Paris and a Master of International Business and Law from the University of Sydney. Thanks to my studies and travels related to them, I speak English and French fluently. I have also basic knowledge of Chinese which I continue to learn.
The thing I like most about PMR
more »
It's the international, young and dynamic working environment and open communication that makes this company so special.
I love travel, dancing and singing as well as skiing and socialising.
My hint for candidates more »
Don't be afraid to say "I don't know" - it is a better option during a job interview than trying to make things up.
Metodija Papazoski
Principal Consultant
Experience in PMR- general introduction
Since my arrival in PMR Consulting, I have been involved in many consulting projects for various clients in different sectors. Most of the projects in which I was involved, either as a project manager or part of the Project team were sourcing studies, M&A assistance or market studies. Regarding the sectors in which the majority of the projects were carried out, I can say that the most common sectors were the construction sector, the pharmaceutical, retail and IT Sector.
Experience (by sectors, branches etc) more »
Consulting projects in the construction sector and for construction materials manufacturers. The geographical scope of projects I was involved in covered: Poland, Russia, Czech Republic, Hungary, Romania, Bulgaria and the countries of former Yugoslavia. The clients, major global players, were planning their expansion in CEE. Thanks to our reports they got an insight into local markets, and eventually were able to take a decision concerning their entry to the CEE region.
Sourcing studies for several global companies in the pharmaceutical, metalurgy and petrochemical sector. All of these projects were complex multi-country studies which eventually helped the clients evaluate the best countries in terms of sourcing opportunities. Several of these projects involved business assistance to the client and/or due dilligence.
M&A Assistance in several countries such as Macedonia, Bulgaria and Poland. We provided the client with the necessary in-depth analysis of the potential target companies, which helped the client assess the situation better and decide whether it is feasible to pursue acquisition of the target company.
Prior to joining PMR I was involved in running a long term strategic advisory project for one of the leading US based consultancies in Macedonia which gave me excellent insight on consulting as a business and the importance of adapting to the specific needs of the client.
Info on education & languages more »
My education has been a trully international experience. After graduating from High School in USA, I have continued my studies in Macedonia, at the University of St. Cyril and Methodius, where I finished my BA studies in International Trade. After receiving some valuable work experience, I have continued my education by obtaining an MA degree in International Business and Management from the Bradfrord School of Management and the Leon Kozminski Academy for Entrepreneurship and Management in Warsaw, where I graduated with merits. Regarding the languages I speak, they are: Macedonian, English, Polish, Serbian, Croatian and Bulgarian.
The thing I like most about PMR
more »
Diversity. The unique PMR atmosphere.
In my free time I like playing basketball, reading good books and travelling.
My hint for candidates more »
Just be yourself and fear nothing. Being confident in yourself is the key.
Szymon Konop
Senior Associate Manager
Experience in PMR- general introduction
I joined PMR in late 2003 after a few years working for two leading FMCG companies working in Central and Eastern Europe. Since that time I have been involved in managing over 60 projects and I took part in many more as a team member. The projects mostly concerned such sectors as construction, telecom, automotive, banking services and FMCG, and many of them covered really niche sectors where a unique one-of-a-kind approach was required. I was also very much involved in launching the Competitive Intelligence projects (CI) at PMR and since 2005 I have been an active member of the Society of Competitive Intelligence Professionals.
Experience (by sectors, branches etc) more »
I carried out a significant number of market research projects in the construction branch, the most important concerned transport infrastructure development and markets of specific construction materials (e.g. guard rails, noise barriers, bitumen, laminates). In the telecom branch I was engaged in competitive intelligence projects monitoring the competitive environment in various markets of the CEE as well as research concerning the provision of specific services (e.g. emergency telephony). I was also involved in complicated research of the winter tyres market in CEE countries, an airline MRO hub location study as well as mystery shopping projects in the banking sector which used a wide range of competitive intelligence tools.
Most of the market research projects that are carried out by PMR are in fact a mixture of research and consultancy services, as in 99% of our cases, the project reports contain recommendations for the client suggesting in a very clear way what the next step should be regarding the researched product or service. During my work at PMR I also have taken part in a number of sourcing and merger & acquisition (M&A) projects, in which I have prepared a due dilligence study of the target's marketing strategy.
Prior to joining PMR I worked on Product Manager and Brand Manager positions in the two key Polish FMCG players active in dry packed beverages and food additives market. This way I have gained knowledge of various CEE markets and practical knowledge of marketing strategy planning, brand management, distribution channels management and the way that big companies work. This was a perfect start for offering custom made research, consulting and competitive intelligence projects to PMR clients.
Info on education & languages more »
I hold a BA in Marketing from BWSBiI (a US Peace Corps funded business college) and an MA in Management from the AGH University of Science and Technology in Krakow. Apart from my native Polish, I speak English as well as having a command of Russian.
The thing I like most about PMR
more »
PMR is a company that develops through its employee development. By properly motivating staff members to carry out hard and challenging projects, the company is witnessing an astonishing pace of growth.
I have been a skier since the age of five, as growing up in the mountainous part of Poland gave me a lot of opportunities to practice. I also enjoy sailing, swimming, running and long distance walking. Generally speaking I like challenges, in my private life as well as in my professional life.
My hint for candidates more »
Get rid of stereotypes, be flexible, open minded and proactive. Do not ask only what the PMR could do for you but try also to think what you could do for PMR.
Andrea Fülöp
Consultant
Experience in PMR- general introduction
The first project I participated in at PMR was offering business assistance for a client in the pharmaceutical sector identifying potental distributors in Romania. This was followed by many other projects in sectors such as: construction, e-commerce and retail, and providing consultancy for CEE countries: market research, market intelligence studies, market overviews, detailed analyses and forecasts. I also have written white papers for the PMR website about social networking, retail and ISO Quality Management in Hungary.
Experience (by sectors, branches etc) more »
I have undertaken market research in the pharmaceutical sector, identifying top companies in Hungary, Romania, and the Republic of Moldova before contacting key staff for phone interviews.
Prior to joining PMR I gained marketing experience in the IT sector whilst working at leading Polish entertainment software development company. I was responsible for creating the online marketing strategy of the website. At PMR I participated in a consulting project regarding e-commerce in the CEE region, being personally responsible for the Hungarian and Romanian markets.
I also worked at the PR department of a City Hall office in Hungary becoming familiar with the functioning of the public sectors institutions.
During my studies I initiated and coordinated market research presenting media consumption in a Romanian town and I also participated as an interviewer in other research projects regarding the FMCG market.
Info on education & languages more »
I graduated from the Faculty of Economics at the Babes Bolyai University in Romania, where I majored in Marketing. I also studied for 4 months at the Corvinus University of Budapest in Hungary with a government scholarship, focusing on CSR issues. My major interests are market intelligence, consumer behaviour and CSR. Besides my native Hungarian I speak fluent Romanian, English and I am learning Polish.
The thing I like most about PMR
more »
I was amazed to see that everything I was told during the interview about the company is true: friendly atmosphere, support for employees in their development and company social events. PMR is definitely an employee-friendly company.
I like reading modern literature, travelling, learning new languages (Polish at the moment) and discovering new cultures. When it comes to sports I enjoy swimming, skiing and skating.
My hint for candidates more »
Ask yourself whether you're looking for something just to pay your bills or you want a career opportunity at PMR. In the first case you can try to use all the interview tips heard from friends or read on internet, but they probably won't help you too much. In the latter case you definitely will do your best in the interview and later in your everyday work.
Chris Hargraves
Consultant
Experience in PMR- general introduction
When I joined PMR, I originally worked as part of the International Sales team, working to expand the presence and awareness of PMR outside of our home market in Poland. As part of this team, I helped with the reorganisation of our department and worked towards a doubling of our international revenues. Now, as part of the Consulting team, I enjoy taking part in challenging market research projects that really have an impact upon the development of this fast changing CEE region - keeping up-to-date with new information is one of the key challenges of this role!
Experience (by sectors, branches etc) more »
I worked as senior sales consultant for the construction sector - where an understanding of the needs of our clients was paramount. During my time in this role, I developed strong working relationships with major players in the construction contractor, steel and construction machinery sectors (among others), especially in key markets such as the Russian Federation.
I was charged with developing sales in the Pharma sector. Based on my experience of working in a UK hospital, being motivated to help this market develop is much easier when you realise the positive difference this industry can make to patients lives!
Info on education & languages more »
During my studies at the University of Nottingham, I was able to gain an understanding of key business theories and wider cultural and political issues through my Management Studies with French courses. I also gained an international outlook from my time studying at the ESC Rennes Business School in France (where I was awarded a first class BA in International Business and ranked second in my year group). This, along with my time spent studying for an MA in European studies at Jagiellonian University in Krakow, has allowed me to improve my French and Polish skills in addition to my native English speaking.
The thing I like most about PMR
more »
is the atmosphere! A friendly, open atmosphere exists in our office and the many sports and cultural activities organised with colleagues helps to build the sense of community.
In my free time I like to play squash and football, watch films and try my hand at cooking new dishes.
My hint for candidates more »
Relax! I know it's easier to say than do, but it really helps you to convey your personality across. How to do it? Maybe some favourite music beforehand will help keep the nerves under control?
Dorota Franczukowska
Consultant
Experience in PMR- general introduction
My duties in PMR consist of accomplishing a wide variety of projects - starting from sourcing studies, through market research, to business assistance and market intelligence studies. There is an opportunity to work on miscellanous business sectors as well, which gives an indepth overview of the market situation and inter-branch linkages. That kind of experience is invaluable in adjusting to specific clients' needs.
Experience (by sectors, branches etc) more »
Sourcing projects in the construction sector, as well as marketing support for construction companies. Pre-accession advisory services for companies willing to expand their geografic scope of activities.
Managing international sourcing and "matchmaking" projects in the field of technology transfer and the knowledge-based economy. Business assistance for newly-established companies.
Market intelligence studies and marketing support for key players in the petrochemical sector.
Conducting market research and study visits for a worldwide organisation representing metallurgic and engineering business sector.
Running courses on international marketing and business issues in the European Union for students from one of the leading American Universities.
Info on education & languages more »
I graduated from the Krakow University of Economics in the field of International Relations and from the Jagiellonian University - Faculty of Law and Administration. During my educational process, I gained knowledge in the field of economics, legal issues and marketing both in Poland and abroad, and I also became familiar with companies? management rules. Due to participation in the Young Diplomats Academy, I am also more aware of the international affairs issues and diplomatic protocol. I speak Polish, English and Spanish.
The thing I like most about PMR
more »
What I like the most about PMR is that it is a fast-developing and fast-learning organisation, easily adjusting to clients' needs and at the same time caring about staff members' needs.
In my free time I love doing fitness, meeting with friends and family, learning languages (several at the same time) and becoming familiar with international cultural differences.
My hint for candidates more »
Maybe it will sound a bit trivial - but my advise is simply: 'be yourself'. I am sure that you are a valuable person - so it is good to present all your assets and virtues and also to be honest with weaknesses. Working in a team with so friendly an atmosphere as we have in PMR, it would be just impossible to pretend to be somebody else all the time! We are all human beings here and we all make mistakes (but of couse trying not to make too many...).
Katarzyna Bró¿
Consultant
Experience in PMR- general introduction
I have been involved in projects from various industries since I became part of PMR team. Getting knowledge from different sectors is what makes this job challenging and motivating. Working as a Consultant also means a constant learning, flexibility and searching for creative problem-solving methods. Maintaing a very good relationship with the client's team allows us to get a deeper insight into our client's companies and get a better understanding of every business individually.
Experience (by sectors, branches etc) more »
As a PMR team member I was involved in a Consulting project on M&A target identification for a German company from the metal-processing industry.Our client was provided with a comprehensive report including potential targets' detailed profiles and advice as to the best partner. PMR Consultants organised and supported the client during visits in Poland and the Czech Republic.
I supported the PMR team in a Sourcing study in CEE for one of the world's leading companes from the petrochemical sector. The research had the goal of identifying a group of local producers that could potentially become sourcing partners for our client. We first scanned the focus markets for the largest and/or most reputable companies in their respective areas of business and then conducted detailed research on each of them in order to determine their competitiveness and ability to meet the client?s needs.
I gained experiece conducting market research on trends within the construction industry in the field of metal working fluids and milling blades. The aim of the project was to gather information from industry experts to asses the current and future situation with respect to the client's product and provide him with recommendations as to the suitable strategy.
Prior to joining PMR I had the opportunity to have a traineeship at one of the leading pharmaceutical companies in the marketing department. I also cooperated with many German companies during trade fairs, conferences and assisted them during their stay in Poland.
Info on education & languages more »
I studied at the Noordelijke Hogeschool Leeuwarden in the Netherlands, winning a Socrates-Erasmus scholarship, where I majored in International Business and graduated with a Bachelor of Commerce. I am also finishing my Master studies at Warsaw University of Technology in the field of Public Administration. This gives me the possibility to gain knowlegde from both the private and public sector. I speak English, German and Spanish.
The thing I like most about PMR
more »
PMR creates a great atmosphere where sharing knowledge and exchanging ideas is very much facilitated.
I enjoy water sports, watching movies and mediterranean cuisine.
My hint for candidates more »
Before the interview try to think of how you could add value to the team of PMR Consultants with your own personal skills, characteristics and knowledge. It is good to know what are your good and weak points.
Maciej Berestecki
Consultant
Experience in PMR- general introduction
"From the beginning I have been involved in complex and challenging consulting projects which require fast learning skills and a flexible approach. In the first month of my work I had a chance to be a manager of a strategic advisory project for a multinational client. The solution I proposed, as well as my business assisatance during their negotiations with local partners, contributed to the project success.
What I particularly appreciate in my job is the broad business experience acquired through a variety of projects carried out for global companies representing diverse sectors of the economy. "
Experience (by sectors, branches etc) more »
Market research of the pharmaceutical sector in order to recommend the best market entry strategy for a new medicine. Not only was it necessary to investigate competitive products on the market but also to analyse the requirements and procedures related to the registration of a new medicine, its reimbursement and price setting. The project was completed in Poland, Slovakia and the Czech Republic and afterwards the client asked for the same research to be conducted in several more countries of the CEE.
Consulting project in the luxury goods sector consisting of distribution partner selection according to the client's demanding criteria. Rigorous research and interviews of market players paved the way to successful negotiations with potential partners during the client's business trip Poland. As a result, the same project is being conducted in the Czech Republic and Hungary and probably other CEE states will follow.
Experience in a European consumer NGO in the area of financial services where I was in charge of EU affairs, project coordination and lobbying. Cooperation and struggle with opposite interests' groups opened my mind and showed me the positive side of compromise and a flexible approach. Not only this but I also had a chance to work in a multinational environment which helped me to fit in easily at PMR.
Experience in national and European administration - the Polish Antimonopoly Office in Warsaw and the Enterprise Directorate General of the European Commission in Brussels. Business operations observed and analysed from the regulators' perspective as well as a good understanding of competition law are very helpful in solving business problems of international companies in PMR.
Info on education & languages more »
During my studies at the Jagiellonian University (Spanish Linguistics Faculty) as well as at the University of Granada (Faculty of Translation) I had a great chance to improve my language skills and learn about other civilizations and cultures. European Affairs and Politics studied both in Poland and abroad awakened my curiosity for global social and economic issues.
The thing I like most about PMR
more »
What I really like about PMR is a friendly and multicultural atmosphere of people who not only support each other in every day tasks but also undertake together many after-work entertaining and social activities.
I enjoy practising any kind of sport which makes me active and healthy. I like travelling and learning about new cultures as well as reading about politics and international affairs.
My hint for candidates more »
Try to be relaxed and show a positive attitude, people you will meet at the interview will be friendly. You do not need to be an expert in international business but make sure you understand general economic processes commented on everyday in the press. Practise and feel confident with your spoken and written English.
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