HISTORY
In 2014, after years of friendship, Eric Ponsen and Djordje Petrovic decided to embark on a business adventure called Companies Connected. The initial idea was to connect Dutch companies with those in Serbia and further develop cooperation between the two countries. The Netherlands was chosen because Mr. Ponsen was born there and had an impressive business career.
Sadly, in 2016, Mr. Ponsen passed away unexpectedly. Despite this great loss, Djordje Petrovic decided to continue the company they started together, turning it into a legacy.
Today
Throughout our work, we have:
- Collaborated with some of the world’s and the Netherlands’ largest companies
- Been engaged by the Dutch government
- Worked on international projects
- Helped many regional companies elevate their operations
- Assisted numerous companies in successfully transferring their businesses from generation to generation
We are experts in:
- Strategy
- Finance
- Sales
- Operations (Lean & Kaizen methodology)
- Marketing
- HR
- Family businesses
Our expertise is further demonstrated by our work as consultants on projects for the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD).
MISSION
Enhance clients' businesses by enabling growth, development, longevity, and profitability for their companies.
VISION
Through continuous knowledge transfer, inspire people to create the best version of themselves and their companies.
VALUES
Clients first; dedication to continuous learning; professionalism; excellence in work.
Our Methodology
OUR CONSULTING TEAM
Đorđe Petrović
Owner of Companies Connected, with a career spanning collaborations with some of the world's largest companies. Founder of the "Ja, Preduzetnik" platform and author of the books "The Modern Family Business" and "The Art of Entrepreneurship." Owner of Companies Connected, with a career spanning collaborations with some of the world's largest companies. Founder of the "Ja, Preduzetnik" platform and author of the books "The Modern Family Business" and "The Art of Entrepreneurship."
Area of expertise: Strategy, working with family businesses on professionalization and transition.
Igor Petković
Extensive experience in the banking industry, serving as CFO at "Banka Poštanska Štedionica" a.d., Head of Corporate at "AIK Banka," General Manager at "FRUVITA" d.o.o., and General Manager at "Rafinerija Nafte A.D. Beograd."
Area of expertise: Finance, strategy, and working with family businesses on professionalization.
Danko Pavlović
With extensive experience in banking across all Front Office positions, ranging from Account Manager for SMEs to Executive Board Member and Chief Marketing Officer (CMO). Former Commercial Director at "Rafinerija Nafte A.D. Beograd" and past Director and Co-owner of "Road Link" d.o.o.
Area of expertise: Sales.
Srđan Nonković
With over 30 years of experience in process improvement projects across the region, he has shared his expertise by leading practical seminars on the topic. However, his career has been primarily enriched by hands-on involvement in numerous projects for service and manufacturing companies, totaling over 110 projects.
Areas of expertise: Lean & Kaizen.
Jelena Popović Bujić
An ACIM specialist from The Chartered Institute of Marketing in London, with over 25 years of experience in marketing, sales, and business development. Currently the General Manager of Iceberg Salat Center, she previously worked as an International Sales and Business Development Manager at ComTrade (HP Indigo) and as a marketing consultant for numerous multinational companies across various industries. She is also the first woman to receive the EY Entrepreneur of the Year award in Serbia.
Area of expertise: Marketing.
Andrija Gerić
A celebrated volleyball player, long-time national team member, and Olympic champion with an impressive career behind him. After retiring from sports, he completed his studies in psychology and started his private practice, where he now works with athletes and companies.
Area of expertise: Human Resources (HR).