With the Artemis Award (Artemida), the Female Managers' Section of the Managers' Association of Slovenia recognizes leading female managers and rewards their role in creating added value within the company or organization they lead. Through this award, we encourage female managers to step into the highest and most responsible roles in their organizations, thereby breaking the invisible barrier that might be holding them back on their path. Based on the commission's selection, this year's award recipients are Irena Brugger and Judita Rigler.

Irena Brugger

Irena Brugger is a leader who successfully guides organizations through demanding transformations with a combination of strategic determination, an ethical stance, and a strong people-oriented approach.

Since December 2023, she has been the General Manager of Davidov hram d.o.o., where she assumed responsibility for the comprehensive transformation of the company within the challenging hospitality wholesale environment. Under her leadership, the company digitalized key processes, implemented a new ERP system and an online store, and strengthened its competencies in sales, purchasing, and logistics. Despite the short-term negative impact of these changes on operations, her clear vision, consistent leadership, and strong trust in her team laid solid foundations for the company's long-term development, creating a highly motivated, cohesive, and customer-focused organization.

Prior to this, as the Sales Director at Pivovarna Laško Union, she actively co-created one of the company's most demanding strategic transformations. She managed the portfolio restructuring, business optimization, and changes that touched upon the very tradition of the company with great sensitivity for the employees and in close cooperation with all key stakeholders.

Irena Brugger is distinguished by a modern and inclusive leadership style based on empowerment, accountability, and the growth of both individuals and the team. Her high ethical standards, respect for people, and awareness of the company's broader social role are consistently reflected in her work. She is a leader who knows how to make tough decisions while maintaining humanity, optimism, and a clear focus on the future.

Therefore, she represents a compelling example of a modern female manager and an inspiration to many women on their leadership journeys.

Judita Rigler

With her clarity, integrity, and high professional standards, Judita Rigler proves that determination, consistency, and care for people are the foundation of sustainably successful leadership.

In December 2024, she took over the management of Lab Interior within the Mikro+Polo d.o.o. group. Upon her arrival, the company suffered from poorly organized processes, unclear roles, project delays, and financial losses. Through a decisive approach, she established clear processes, task distribution, and performance metrics, which quickly translated into better business results, higher added value per employee, and a re-engaged team.

Under her leadership, Lab Interior has recorded growth in profit and added value. Furthermore, in just one year, the share of women in leadership positions increased from 33% to 83%, confirming her commitment to professionalism, meritocracy, and talent development.

Judita Rigler is distinguished by a direct, clear, and results-oriented leadership style. She does not lead by trying to please, but with integrity, determination, and courage in making necessary—even if unpleasant—decisions. Her high ethical standards, respect for work and people, and consistency in setting boundaries create an environment where standards are clear and collaboration is based on trust.

Through her example, she proves that modern leadership means clarity, courage, and maturity, and that it is possible to build a successful, stable, and respected organization even in demanding circumstances.

The Commission that proposed the award recipients consists of: Aleša Mižigoj (President), Klaudija Javornik, Enej Kirn, Aleš Muhič, Mojca Randl, Sanja Savič, Melanie Seier Larsen, and Žiga Vavpotič.