Countdown to IPMA SENET 2025
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A quick downhill through project successes and challenges: Showcasing best practices
The central part of the event will showcase best practices from various projects, taking you on an exciting slalom – “Skiing through successes and failures – Real project insights.” We will dive into the successes and challenges of projects, exploring them from different perspectives, particularly through key project management competencies. Carefully selected projects and engaging speakers will share their experiences in a direct and insightful manner. In addition to success stories, you can also expect an analysis of less successful examples, offering valuable lessons to refine your own project management approaches. This is an opportunity to gain practical insights, exchange ideas, and build new perspectives for overcoming challenges in your projects. Join us as we navigate the peaks and valleys of real-world project experiences, turning lessons learned into future successes.
Slow slalom through case studies
At the conference, participants will have the opportunity to engage in interactive case study sessions, designed to bridge theory and practice. Each case study will follow academic standards, beginning with a concise theoretical framework, followed by a detailed description of real-world project management scenarios, highlighting both successes and challenges. Groups of participants will analyze these cases, explore targeted discussion questions, and share their perspectives on key findings. The cases will offer insights into both exemplary practices and common pitfalls, encouraging critical reflection and knowledge exchange. This collaborative approach fosters dynamic group discussions, allowing participants to deepen their understanding of project management complexities while networking with peers. These sessions promise to be a rich learning experience, equipping attendees with practical insights and valuable takeaways for their professional journey.
Building connections at the finish line
Networking and building connections will play a key role at the event, ensuring participants have ample opportunities for informal exchanges and sharing of project experiences. Take advantage of the breaks to meet fellow professionals, establish new collaborations, and discuss shared challenges and solutions in a relaxed atmosphere. The highlight of this aspect will be the prestigious IPMA Dinner, a signature evening designed to foster meaningful connections and celebrate the spirit of project management. This exclusive gathering promises an unforgettable experience, blending professional dialogue with a touch of elegance, making it the perfect finale to a day filled with insights and learning. The evening will also commemorate the 60th anniversary of IPMA, celebrating six decades of advancing excellence in project management worldwide.
6. 2. 2025 (Thursday)
10.00 – 10.30
Registration & coffee break
10.30 – 11.00
Welcome speaches
dr. Igor Vrečko
President of ZPM
Dr. Igor Vrečko is the president of the Slovenian association for project management and serves as vice-dean for development projects and practical engagement at the Faculty of economics and business, University of Maribor.
dr. Mladen Vukomanović
President of IPMA
Dr. Mladen Vukomanović is the President of IPMA, the President of the Croatian Association for Project Management, and a full professor at the Faculty of Civil Engineering, University of Zagreb.
dr. Vladimir Obradović
Vice president of IPMA
Dr. Vladimir Obradović is the Vice President of IPMA, the President of IPMA Serbia, and a Full Professor and head of the Department for Interdisciplinary Research in Management at the Faculty of Organizational Sciences, University of Belgrade.
11.00 – 12.30
Inspiring projects and best practice examples
Building a nuclear power plant: A step-by-step approach
The lecture about the JEK2 project is a game-changer, showcasing the strategic planning and project management required to deliver one of the largest and most impactful infrastructure projects in this part of Europe. This lecture will delve into the complexities of planning and managing a mega-project like JEK2, addressing critical aspects such as risk mitigation, stakeholder management, innovative technologies, and ensuring sustainability. Learn how effective project management can turn an ambitious vision into reality, setting a benchmark for infrastructure projects in the region.
Speaker: Gorazd Slak, GEN energija
Gorazd Slak is the head of the communication and sustainable development sector at GEN energija. As part of the JEK2 project, which envisions the construction of a new unit at the Krško nuclear power plant, he is responsible for public communication and raising awareness about the importance of nuclear energy. He actively participates in project presentations across Slovenia, using interactive models and mock-ups to bring the JEK2 plans closer to the general public.
Challenges, risks and solutions in managing mega projects
Second track Divača–Koper project, Slovenia’s most ambitious infrastructure initiative, showcasing the complexities and challenges encountered by project managers. It will provide an in-depth analysis of critical aspects such as risk management strategies, the integration of sustainable practices, and the application of advanced digital tools to streamline project execution. This flagship project serves as a prime example of how innovative and effective project management can transform national rail infrastructure, ensuring timely delivery while maintaining ambitious development goals.
Speaker: Marko Žitnik, Head of the Technical Sector at 2TDK, Project Development Company Ltd.
Marko Žitnik is an experienced project manager with extensive expertise in overseeing complex infrastructure projects. A university-educated civil engineer with four decades of career experience, he leads a team of construction experts specializing in diverse fields, including tunnels, bridges, railway systems, electrification, BIM technology, and design.
Project Management in the European Commission and in the government
A former European Commissioner for Transport from Slovenia will share her extensive experience in managing a high-profile portfolio and leading projects at the highest European level. Gain unique insights into the challenges and strategies of navigating complex decision-making processes, fostering collaboration across diverse stakeholders, and delivering impactful results in one of the most influential institutions in the EU. This lecture is an exceptional opportunity to learn from her first-hand experiences and expertise.
Speaker: dr. Violeta Bulc
dr.hc.Violeta Bulc is an engineer, innovator, founder and curator of global Ecocivilisation Movement spreaing in over 50 countries. She also served as the European Commissioner for Transport in the European Commission led by Jean-Claude Juncker.
12.30 – 14.00
Lunch
14.00 – 15.30
Round table: Challenges and opportunities in project management across SENET region
dr. Vladimir Obradović
Serbia
dr. Igor Vrečko
Slovenia
dr. Mladen Vukomanović
Croatia
Silvia Drahošová
Slovakia
Sanja Međedović
Montenegro
15.30 – 16.00
Coffee break
16.00 – 17.45
Inspiring projects and best practice examples
Project management in a global and multicultural environment
The Director of Business Development for Europe, the Middle East, and Africa at Hisense will share insights into managing business and projects in a global and multicultural environment. This talk will cover the challenges and opportunities of working internationally, with practical examples and tips for handling different markets and cultures. Learn how to succeed in today’s connected and fast-changing world.
Speaker: Denis Oštir, Director of business development for Europe, the Middle East and Africa at VIDAA
Denis Oštir has spent most of his professional career in media as a journalist and editor at Pro Plus. In recent years, he transitioned to the business environment. At the multinational company Hisense, he leads business development for the VIDAA TV platform, working with global and local partners to create an advanced ecosystem for content and service access in the smart homes of the future.
Nordic center Planica: From local vision to global impact
You will learn how the Nordic center Planica was designed and built as a global project with innovative infrastructure that transcends the boundaries of sports. The discussion will focus on the center’s impact on tourism, the local economy, and the broader region. Learn how thoughtful planning of a space with developmental potential can transform a region, foster sustainable growth, and enhance international recognition. This lecture will inspire anyone interested in shaping projects with long-term impact on the environment, the economy, and the community.
Speaker: Jelko Gros, head of the Nordic center Planica
Jelko Gros has played a key role in the development of the Nordic center Planica, contributing significantly through his work and ideas to its construction and integration into the local community. He is also a respected Slovenian ski jumping coach, sports official, and occasional sports commentator.
How to be okay (in project management)
The lecture addresses some of the biggest challenges faced in project management today—stress, exhaustion, and the feeling of being stuck amidst complex demands. Through the speaker’s creative approach, this session offers inspiring insights and practical tips for fostering better team relationships, enhancing creativity, and building self-awareness and confidence.
Speaker: Aljoša Bagola, creative director, lecturer and book author
Aljoša Bagola, one of Slovenia’s most prominent advertising creatives, is a renowned speaker, columnist, and bestselling author. Over his 20-year career, he has led major marketing and communication projects in Slovenia and the wider region, earning over 100 awards at national and international advertising festivals. Named Slovenia’s Creative Director of the Decade, he now focuses on speaking, advising on creativity, writing, and select communication projects.
7. 2. 2025 (Friday)
9.00 – 9.30
Registration & coffee break
9.30 – 11.45
Slow slalom through case studies
We invite you to an innovative workshop where we will actively solve project management challenges through practical examples and group work on real-life cases.
Theory and Practice
At the conference, participants will have the opportunity to engage in interactive case study sessions, designed to bridge theory and practice.
Real-World Scenarios
Each case study will follow academic standards, beginning with a concise theoretical framework, followed by a detailed description of real-world project management scenarios, highlighting both successes and challenges.
Analysis and Knowledge Exchange
Groups of participants will analyze these cases, explore targeted discussion questions, and share their perspectives on key findings. The cases will offer insights into both exemplary practices and common pitfalls, encouraging critical reflection and knowledge exchange.
Enriching Professional Journeys
windows
This collaborative approach fosters dynamic group discussions, allowing participants to deepen their understanding of project management complexities while networking with peers. These sessions promise to be a rich learning experience, equipping attendees with practical insights and valuable takeaways for their professional journey.
11.45 – 12.00
Closing speaches
12.00 – 13.00
Lunch
Join us for skiing through successes and failures
SENET TICKET
Standard registration fee- Full access to both conference days
- Complimentary Food & Drinks
- IPMA dinner
- IPMA badge
- Official conference app
IPMA SENET TICKET
Member of ZPM, IPMA MA, IPMA YOUNG CREW- Full access to both conference days
- Complimentary Food & Drinks
- IPMA dinner
- IPMA badge
- Official conference app
SENET GROUP TICKET
More than 3 participants- Full access to both conference days
- Complimentary Food & Drinks
- IPMA dinner
- IPMA badge
- Official conference app
Tax is not included in the price and is charged at a rate of 22%.
IPMA Events mobile app
Stay connected and informed throughout the conference with the IPMA Events mobile app! This app provides real-time access to all the essential event details, including the program schedule, participant registration, hall entry, important updates, and notifications. With everything at your fingertips, you’ll have a seamless experience during the event. Don’t forget to download the app before the conference to ensure you’re fully prepared. Simply search for IPMA EVENTS in your app store and get ready to enhance your event experience!
Do not forget to claim Your IPMA’s Certification Badge!
Each participant at the conference will receive the IPMA’s SENET Certification Badge, a trusted digital credential that validates your attendance and engagement at the event. This badge offers a unique opportunity to share your achievement online in a seamless and reliable way, with real-time verification. With this badge, you can not only highlight your professional accomplishments but also demonstrate that your expertise and skills are current, trace your career development, and confirm that your credentials come from a globally recognized and respected source. You can collect your badge after the conference on the my.ipma.world portal.
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EVENT LOCATION
Hotel: Ramada Resort Kranjska Gora
Address:
Borovška cesta 99
4280 Kranjska Gora
Slovenia
HOTEL RECOMMENDATIONS
Ramada Resort Kranjska Gora
ABOUT IPMA
IPMA is a federation of about 70 Member Associations (MAs). Our MAs develop project management competences in their geographic areas of influence, interacting with thousands of practitioners and developing relationships with corporations, government agencies, universities and colleges, as well as training organizations and consulting companies.
ABOUT IPMA SENET
IPMA SENET is a network of IPMA Member Associations from Central and South-East Europe that gathers project management professionals from Bosnia & Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Greece, Hungary, Montenegro, Poland, Romania, Russian Federation, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Turkey and Ukraine. It was established in the year of 2000 with the aim to support the exchange of experience and proven practices in project management, knowledge sharing on the latest trends and solutions of project management collected through research and practice, as well as to exchange the newest information about trends and encouraging development of project management profession in the region.
ABOUT ZPM
The Slovenian Association for Project Management (ZPM) is a non-profit organization that promotes the development of project management in Slovenia and contributes to the advancement of this field on a global scale. It provides its members and the wider public with opportunities for professional and personal growth, offering services and information that enable better strategic and project decision-making.