How the Executive Learning Series transformed media leaders across Europe, equipping them for sustainable growth and resilience
After successfully concluding the Executive Learning Series, a programme implemented by Thomson through organisation of three Masterclasses in Skopje, Warsaw and Belgrade, participants had a chance to meet again on the follow up Masterclass in Durres, for a follow-up session.
This fourth meeting reinforced the strategies and skills introduced in the initial three sessions held across Europe. Designed to interconnect key insights and introduce fresh approaches for implementation, this session offered hands-on advice to help participants address challenges and strengthen their projects. With contributions from leaders in journalism, each participant reflected on their journey, revealing transformative outcomes achieved through the ELS.
The participants shared a common theme of initial uncertainty and scepticism, which transformed into a deep appreciation for the strategic insights gained through the ELS.
Despite a non-managerial background, Jan Bělíček from Czech media outlet Denik Alarm acknowledged his initial scepticism towards managerial workshops. Yet, from the first ELS session, he realised that foundational strategic planning and scenario development skills were indispensable for steering a media outlet towards success.
“Without a meaningful strategy, our work is precarious and vulnerable.” Jan Bělíček, Denik Alarm
The ELS prompted Jan to consider his organisation’s core strengths, which he subsequently leveraged in a summer crowdfunding campaign, leading to a 20% boost in regular donors. For Jan, these changes mark just the beginning of ELS’s long-term impact on his organisation.
Participants described how the programme offered practical, hands-on skills that empowered them to make significant, often structural, organisational changes, leading to measurable improvements. .
As a journalist transitioning into management, Ioana Epure from Romanian Press One joined the ELS seeking skills to lead effectively. The journey was transformative: Press One restructured its team under her leadership, allowing Ioana to focus on strategic decisions while empowering others. This delegation enhanced the team’s capabilities and fostered a work environment with clearer responsibilities.
“This has left us in a stronger position to concentrate on production and sustainability without vulnerabilities. The positive ripple effects are felt daily, as Press One operates with more cohesion and resilience.” – Ioana Epure, Press One
Across all accounts, ELS was seen as a professional development tool and a transformative experience that strengthened their leadership and vision for sustainable media operations.
Vladimir Utješinović from Montenegrin media TV Nikšić joined ELS with an open mind, expecting something beyond the conventional. Through the programme, he accessed transformative insights that supported his organisation’s major shifts. TV Nikšić moved to a new facility in recent months, necessitating operational adjustments. Vladimir credited ELS with equipping him to handle this transition smoothly.
“The knowledge and skills I gained are directly applicable in practice,” he explained, noting how organisational changes have already resulted in increased efficiency and effectiveness at his outlet.
Participants found themselves on a path of intense learning, gaining not only new skills but also pushing personal boundaries and rethinking approaches to planning and execution. Tatjana Sekulić from N1 Bosnia and Herzegovina reflected on her experience, emphasising the value of the relationships built with European colleagues.
The experience was challenging yet deeply rewarding, marking a significant milestone in her career.
“ELS helped me grow as a leader. I can freely say that this was one of the most intensive projects I’ve been through and one of those where I learned the most.“ – Tatjana Sekulić, N1
Expecting only networking opportunities, Igor Stojanov from Macedonian Goce.mk discovered much more within the ELS. Equipped with insights into youth media consumption, Igor transformed his organisation’s content strategy, achieving unprecedented engagement: two videos each reached over one million views, with the audience growing by over 30,000 followers. Additionally, ELS spurred him to collaborate on a research paper, published internationally, examining the evolution of local radio stations.
The follow-up session in Durres not only reconnected participants with the ELS framework but also cemented the significance of a dedicated media leadership initiative. As the participants shared their successes and strategies, it became clear that ELS has catalysed substantial shifts across their organisations. By aligning strategic insights with practical application, the ELS has empowered these media leaders to foster more sustainable, resilient, and impactful media organisations.
The events were part of a series of programmes implemented by Thomson for the projects ‘Media Innovation Europe’ – run in conjunction with International Press Institute (IPI) and funded by Creative Europe; ‘Western Balkans Media for Change’ – run in conjunction with the British Council and funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO); and ‘Deepening Digital’ – Thomson’s media support programme in Central Europe.
