I grew up in Slovakia, those days a communist country, behind the ‘iron curtain’. Despite certain hardships and experience gaps I enjoyed a good education and believe that the prohibition nurtured an even bigger curiosity, humility and a sense of humour. 

​

In my early twenties, I embarked on my first big adventure and moved to Switzerland to pursue my PhD studies. Thanks to a fast progress and a good fortune I was soon running a research lab of 15 scientists at various levels, which exposed me, for the first time, to leadership tasks.

​

After this promising start in academia, I decided to explore the dynamic world of biotech start-ups where I assumed a completely unfamiliar role of Head of Marketing and Sales. 

Three years later, I moved into the corporate world, joining 'big pharma' as a member of the investor relations team. This role provided me with a unique opportunity to closely collaborate with most senior leaders and members of the corporate executive committee, gaining invaluable c-suite level experience. Afterwards, I held various senior positions in communications and medical affairs and led numerous cross-functional projects across companies and geographies. One of the most fascinating moments of my career was as a key member of the company's COVID-19 taskforce contributing to decision-making and execution during an unprecedented global challenge. Today, I continue to work part-time in the pharmaceutical industry as a team coach and catalyst of change.

I am a proud mother of a wonderful young man and have navigated the intricate balance between motherhood and a demanding career for many years. Change has been a constant in my career and I have learnt that it is always an opportunity to discover new things and uncover one’s potential by finding a way in an unknown space. What remained throughout the years is my belief in the power of common sense and the magic of humour.

My coaching path started five years ago, though my interest in people has been lifelong. I have been fascinated by so many different facets of being human and appreciative of a diversity of views and perspectives. I am accredited as an Associate Certified Coach (ACC) with the International Coaching Federation (ICF), with additional training in systemic team coaching and start-up boards. I have had the privilege of working as a coach with corporates and start-up companies; young professionals and c-suite level executives. With over 400 hours of coaching experience, my passion for helping others grow and succeed remains as strong as ever. I coach in English, German, and Slovak, and I am based near Basel, Switzerland.

​