The Managers’ Association of Slovenia has named Dr. Tomaž Kmecl, CEO of Kolektor Etra, Manager of the Year 2026. He receives the award in recognition of his success in transforming the company into a global player and one of the key technological drivers of Europe’s green transition. Dr. Kmecl demonstrates that true leadership puts people first while demanding full accountability. His leadership qualities are reflected not only in exceptional financial results but, above all, in a winning organisational culture that inspires trust and systematically develops the next generation of leaders.

Dr. Kmecl holds a PhD in mechanical engineering. He has combined a decade of experience managing highly complex international projects, along with the Swiss work ethic, discipline and determination, with Slovenian engineering innovation. At a time when high-power transformers have become both a cornerstone and a strategic bottleneck of electrification, the company under his leadership is providing Europe with cutting-edge technology that enables the sustainable energy transition and greater energy independence.

Since taking over the company’s leadership in 2009, when it employed 200 people, Kolektor Etra has experienced rapid growth, reaching 627 employees by the end of 2025. The company is strongly export-oriented, generating more than 93% of its total revenue in international markets.

His business philosophy, focused on creating high added value and solving customers’ challenges, is reflected in the company’s results across all areas of its operations:

• The company’s revenue increased from €133 million in 2020 to almost €370 million in 2025.

• Over the past three years, the company recorded an impressive average annual sales growth rate of 27%.

• Net operating profit rose from just over €9 million in 2020 to €118 million in 2025.

• EBITDA increased from €14 million to €145 million over the same period.

• Added value per employee reached a record €294,000 in 2025, while return on equity (ROE) stood at an exceptional 77%. With an EBIT margin of 39%, Kolektor Etra significantly and convincingly outperforms its international competitors in the industry.

According to feedback from colleagues and a 360-degree assessment of his leadership profile, Dr. Kmecl is an exceptionally strong, consistent and credible leader. His leadership charisma score exceeds the average of the reference group of other leaders, while his highest-rated competency is his ability to "inspire trust". He translates his personal charisma into consistent standards of accountability and open communication, embedding these principles throughout his team and among other leaders.

He is a leader who does not shy away from challenges or conflict. As he himself emphasises: "A leader is not a true leader if they are uncomfortable with being uncomfortable." He expects his colleagues to take end-to-end responsibility for projects and to make decisions swiftly and thoughtfully. He places particular emphasis on identifying and developing talent and systematically preparing future leaders, believing that the culture he has built must endure beyond any individual and stand the test of time.

For Dr. Kmecl, however, true success goes far beyond financial statements. He has created an exceptionally motivating and supportive working environment. Kolektor Etra is also deeply committed to its local community and sustainable development. As much as 33% of all materials are sourced from local suppliers within a 500-kilometre radius. The company also actively contributes to shaping environmental and sustainability legislation.

Kolektor Etra demonstrates a strong commitment to social responsibility. Among other initiatives, it is a Gold Supporter of Znanstival, a science festival, and of competitions held at universities. It supports local sports and provides direct financial assistance through humanitarian organisations to its employees and their families when they face serious health challenges or difficult life circumstances.

The Board of Directors of the Managers’ Association of Slovenia has selected Dr. Tomaž Kmecl as Manager of the Year 2026, recognising him as a visionary leader who demonstrates through his example that, with the right people and swift decision-making, a Slovenian company can become a leading global player and a strategic partner in Europe’s transition towards a greener future.

About the Manager of the Year Award

The Manager of the Year Award is one of the most prestigious honours awarded to Slovenian business leaders. Through this award, the Managers’ Association of Slovenia recognises outstanding executives for their exceptional business achievements in the companies they lead. The award is traditionally presented at the annual autumn Managers’ Congress.

The Manager of the Year Award Committee comprises Tomislav Čizmić (Chair), Jana Benčina Henigman, Tomaž Berločnik, Petra Juvančič, Tjaša Kolenc Filipčič, Aljoša Krdžić, Medeja Lončar, Aleša Mižigoj and Aleksander Zalaznik.