PSIHOLOGIJA USPJEHA Marija Felkel

Guest Marija FelkelHosted by Tanja PuretaMay 3, 2026

Marija Felkel

About this episode

What you'll hear in this conversation

Marija Felkel, one of the region's most recognized HR leaders, has spent over 25 years in senior human resources roles, currently as Adriatic Cluster HR Manager at Nomad Foods Adriatica. Her path, however, began far from the world of people management. She trained as a lawyer, initially dismissing labor law as 'something very boring,' only to find herself leading a new department in that very field. Her career is a testament to embracing unexpected turns, building genuine relationships, and the relentless pursuit of learning. As Felkel puts it, "Authority doesn't come with the function — it comes with the relationship with people. Admitting mistakes, asking for advice, giving credit to others: that's true leadership." Her story offers a rare perspective on how a lasting career is built on adaptability, empathy, and the courage to redefine one's own professional purpose.

Insights from the conversation

What to take from this episode

Marija Felkel initially found 'labor and social law' to be 'something very boring' during her legal studies, despite a childhood prediction that she would become a lawyer. Yet, her career path led her directly into HR, demonstrating that your most fulfilling professional calling can emerge from the very areas you initially overlook.

Her six years at the Ministry of Internal Affairs, in a role many might prejudge, was described by Felkel as 'a huge leap in learning,' where she was 'overwhelmed with tasks.' Real growth often comes from embracing high-volume, challenging environments, even those outside the perceived 'ideal' career path.

As the youngest section head for labor relations, leading more experienced colleagues, Felkel didn't rely on her title. Instead, she built authority by 'asking older colleagues for advice,' showing respect, and being transparent. True leadership is earned through humility and genuine connection, not merely by position.

When Felkel decided to leave state service for Siemens, her mother 'cried for six days' and thought she was making 'a really big mistake.' Pivotal career moves, especially those driven by personal development and a desire for new challenges, often require the courage to defy well-meaning but conservative advice.

Arriving at Siemens, Felkel expected a perfectly structured German corporation, but found the HR function was 'at an even lower level' than in her previous public sector role. This unexpected void became a rare opportunity to build a modern HR department from the ground up. The greatest impact often comes from stepping into perceived chaos and creating order where none existed.

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