AMM Recognises Key Figures in Montenegrin Economy

The Association of Montenegrin Managers (AMM), a proud member of CEC European Managers, has once again celebrated the country’s top business achievements by presenting its annual awards to Montenegro’s most distinguished managers, entrepreneurs, and employers.

In its ninth edition, the event has become the most prestigious national recognition for excellence in leadership and business development.

Held under the institutional auspices of the Government of Montenegro, the 2024 awards ceremony brought together nearly 400 guests, including government officials, local authorities, diplomats, business leaders, and media representatives.

The awards highlight exceptional achievements in a wide range of categories, from corporate governance and entrepreneurship to socially responsible practices and education.

AMM: Promoting a Culture of Leadership and Excellence

Speaking at the event, AMM President Budimir Raičković emphasized the awards’ symbolic weight in a society where creating value often requires perseverance against the odds.

“These awards are not only a recognition of success, but of the courage to build while others retreat, our managers and entrepreneurs are creating jobs and investing in innovation, while the system often struggles to keep pace. If we continue lagging behind, we risk losing not just markets, but people, ideas, and ultimately – our future.”

Budimir Raičković

AMM President

Raičković called for a more substantial commitment to infrastructure development, technological progress, and a societal shift toward merit-based leadership.

“We need to stop defending the past and start creating the future. Knowledge, integrity, and leadership must become the pillars of our development”

Recognition of the Country’s Brightest Business Talents

The awards were presented across numerous categories, reflecting the breadth of leadership across Montenegro’s economy:

• Manager of the Year – Large Companies: Gojko Bajović, CEO of Okov

• Manager of the Year – Joint-Stock Companies: Christoph Schön, Addiko Bank

• Corporate Governance: Miloš Miketić (Lovćen Bank) and Ivan Lero (GRAWE Non-Life Insurance)

• Manager of the Year – Medium Companies: Anton Vujalj, Castellana Co.

• Manager of the Year – Small Companies: Bojan Joketić, Milo&Chayse

• Micro Companies: Zoran Vukčević (Fashion and Beauty House) and Adriana Husić (Cassiopeia)

• State-Majority-Owned Enterprises: Nikola Marković, RTV Nikšić

• Young Managers of the Year: Miloš Klikovac (Klikovac) and Kristina Pelenigić Popović (Pelenigić Trade)

• Entrepreneur of the Year: Božidar Jokić (Agromont) and Ranko Jovović (NTC Logistics)

• Best Family-Friendly Employer: Nelt MNE

• Best Educational Institution: University of Montenegro

• Project Manager of the Year: Stevan Šandi, Bixbit

Entrepreneurship, as emphasized by several speakers, remains central to the country’s development.

“Entrepreneurs are the engine of progress”

Nik Gjeloshaj

Deputy Prime Minister of Montenegro

Entrepreneurship fuels economic growth and job creation said Gjeloshaj.

The mayor of Podgorica Saša Mujović, echoed the sentiment, affirming the city’s support for the private sector and its role in shaping the country’s future.

Award recipients echoed their gratitude and shared visions of persistence and innovation. Agromont’s Božidar Jokić highlighted the untapped potential of Montenegrin agriculture, while Ranko Jovović of NTC Logistics dedicated his award to his late father, a pioneer of the local IT sector.

A Celebration of Spirit and Humour

The evening also included a humorous stand-up performance titled “Entrepreneurial Spirit on Sedatives”, by actor Branko Ilić, offering a satirical yet touching portrayal of the realities faced by Montenegrin entrepreneurs.

CEC European Managers: Recognizing Excellence Across Europe

As a European social partner, CEC European Managers proudly supports initiatives that recognize and elevate managerial excellence.

The AMM awards reflect not only the achievements of individual business leaders but also the broader potential of Montenegro’s leadership community within Europe.

By promoting innovation, responsibility, and vision, AMM contributes to a modern European management culture — one that CEC is committed to strengthening across all member states.