Dunja Fišer
Episode · #480
PSIHOLOGIJA USPJEHA Dunja Firšt
Guest Dunja FišerHosted by Tanja PuretaMay 3, 2026
Dunja Fišer
About this episode
What you'll hear in this conversation
Dunja Firšt's career path at Kaufland Croatia is a study in professional growth, marked by an unusual departure and a powerful return. After beginning her HR career at Kaufland when the company first entered the Croatian market, she left to pursue broader responsibilities, only to find herself drawn back years later. Her story offers a candid look at the decisions that shape a career, the value of proactive learning, and the unexpected ways a 'first job' can leave a lasting imprint. Readers will reflect on how to seek out challenges, invest in their own development, and recognize the enduring appeal of a workplace that feels like home.
Insights from the conversation
What to take from this episode
01
Dunja Firšt started her career at Kaufland with a degree in German and Russian, not HR experience. The company invested months of training in Prague, recognizing her personality, dynamism, and motivation over direct experience. Sometimes, the right hire is about potential and attitude, not just a matching resume.
02
After four years, Dunja left Kaufland to gain experience in payroll and labor law, responsibilities not available to her in her initial role. Stepping away from a comfortable position can be essential for acquiring the breadth of experience needed for a leadership role later on.
03
While at her next company, AVT International, Dunja took on full HR responsibility, including areas where she lacked prior experience. She proactively paid for external mentoring and invested her own time to learn. When facing new challenges, waiting for an employer to provide all the training isn't enough; taking personal initiative is crucial for growth.
04
Dunja recalls moments of doubt after leaving Kaufland, driving past a store and thinking, 'Dunja, did you need this? Why did you leave?' The answer was always 'Yes, you needed this.' Growth often comes from uncomfortable situations, and embracing those challenges is how we become a better version of ourselves.
05
When a headhunter called about a role at Kaufland years later, Dunja's 'smile was from ear to ear.' She felt like she was 'returning home.' A strong initial company culture and a foundational professional experience can create a powerful sense of belonging that endures, making a return feel like a natural fit.
06
Dunja identifies proactivity and dynamism as her core traits, and she consistently emphasizes their importance in internal Kaufland training. Proactivity isn't just a personal characteristic; it's a critical competitive advantage that companies actively seek and value in candidates during selection processes.