Meet Ivana Jurić from Zagreb, the vibrant capital of Croatia. A dedicated Tribe Leader and Scrum Master at Njuškalo Technology, Ivana is a seasoned professional with a keen focus on people-first leadership and transparent communication. With over a decade of experience in financial services and technology, she expertly bridges the gap between team dynamics and project success.
Early Foundations: A Sturdy Start in Finance
Ivana Jurić embarked on her professional journey at Zagrebačka banka, one of Croatia’s leading banks, where she served as a Personal Banker. Beginning in July 2008, her early days in the banking sector were foundational, grounding her understanding of financial services and client management. Over nearly eleven years, Ivana honed her skills in customer service, financial advice, and relationship management, laying a robust foundation for her subsequent roles.
“Every client interaction taught me something new about the nuances of trust and financial stewardship.”
Academic Pursuits: Laying the Knowledge Groundwork
Parallel to her burgeoning career, Ivana pursued higher education with a strong focus on business economics. She attended the Ekonomski fakultet Zagreb, where she completed a professional study in business economics. Her thirst for knowledge didn’t stop there; Ivana advanced her education at the University of Applied Sciences Baltazar Zaprešić, earning a Master’s degree in Project Management between 2016 and 2018. This period of academic enrichment equipped Ivana with critical skills in project oversight and strategic planning, preparing her for leadership roles in any industry.
Stepping into Leadership: Transition to Scrum Mastery
In March 2019, after her tenure at Zagrebačka banka, Ivana made a significant transition into the tech industry, joining Njuškalo Technology as a Scrum Master. This marked her first official foray into the tech-driven aspects of project management, where she played a pivotal role in implementing agile methodologies within her team. Her tenure as Scrum Master was a testament to her ability to adapt and thrive in changing environments, a skill she attributes to her continuous learning mindset.
“Adopting Agile was not just about changing processes; it was about fostering a culture that embraces change as a constant.”
A Creative Leap into Njuškalo Technology
In June 2020, Ivana took a significant step forward in her career by joining Njuškalo Technology as a Scrum Master and Team Lead. Here, her leadership capabilities were put to the test as she managed a team composed exclusively of developers and tackled more complex projects. Her role evolved over her tenure, demonstrating her adeptness in navigating the intricacies of tech project management.
In March 2022, Ivana accepted the role of Tribe Leader / Scrum Master at Njuškalo Technology. At Njuškalo, Ivana’s role expanded beyond the traditional bounds of a Scrum Master as she took on comprehensive leadership responsibilities. As a Tribe Leader, she not only oversees the Scrum process but also nurtures the personal and professional growth of her team members.
“True leadership is about guiding others to success—ensuring your team is happy, healthy, and highly motivated is the key to productivity. Embracing creativity in all forms of work is crucial; it’s essentially my middle name.”
Ivana is also on an exciting professional development path, currently working towards becoming a certified Points of You Practitioner. This certification underscores her commitment to integrating creative and innovative approaches into her leadership and team management practices.
A Future Forward: Continuing Growth and Development
Today, Ivana continues to lead at Njuškalo Technology with a focus on transparency and open communication. Her career path illustrates a continuous upward trajectory powered by a relentless pursuit of knowledge and excellence in leadership. As she looks to the future, Ivana remains committed to her personal and professional growth, always ready to adapt to new challenges and innovate within her field.
Conclusion: A Leader Shaped by People and Experiences
Ivana Jurić’s journey from the financial sector to a dynamic role in the IT world is a powerful narrative of growth, creativity, and adaptability. Her story highlights a leader deeply committed to the principles of communication and teamwork, combined with a strong creative streak that influences all aspects of her work. Ivana’s journey continues to evolve, but her impact is already palpable in the flourishing teams she has led and the innovative projects she has steered to success.
Ivana Jurić’s Top Five Leadership Lessons
- Prioritize Continuous Learning: Stay adaptable and informed to lead effectively in dynamic environments.
- Champion Open Communication: Build trust and facilitate smoother operations by encouraging transparency.
- Exercise Empathy: Understand and address team needs to foster a supportive work environment.
- Tackle Problems Proactively: Address issues early to prevent escalation and maintain team focus.
- Invest in People: Dedicate resources to team development for increased engagement and productivity.
Editorial Note
Ivana Jurić’s leadership journey exemplifies dedication and adaptability, serving as an inspiration for many. We invite other executives to share their unique stories with us at Executives Diary. Submitting your biography is completely free of cost, and it’s a wonderful opportunity to highlight your achievements and insights. Join our community of professionals today and let your journey inspire others!
