We all know about Elon Musk’s accomplishments: co-founder of monetary giant PayPal founder of Tesla, the electric car company, that is literally changing the world and founder of SpaceX, the company that is trying to take us out of this world and colonize another. We can also absentmindedly rattle off a stream of words that describe him: innovative, genius, visionary, futurist, entrepreneur. These descriptions easily match to Bavarian Business Hubs Founder and CEO Markus Renz. He has a similar big vision – to change the European labor market, make an impact and create a future for people.
How it all began:
After years of successfully working in the sales and recruiting industry, he recognized that Germany became a comfort zone for him. Markus was confronted with the question “What do I want to change in my life and where do I want to spend the second half of my life with my family?”
He spoke to many friends, colleagues, clients, and most importantly his family. His idea became more and more clear: “I don´t want to live like that for the rest of my life. I want to create something that lasts and provide an added value through my network, knowledge and experience. I want to combine work and life in a matching way.”
Another driver was his love for the sea and the Eastern culture. He was born at the North Sea and always loved it there. For many years, Croatia has been his favorite holiday destination. Due to his long recruiting career, he was very familiar with Eastern Europe, it’s cultures, people and challenges. He established a wide network and expertise throughout Europe. Therefore, he wanted to challenge himself and broaden his horizon.
How do you came up with the idea of founding Bavarian Business Hub?
Markus Renz: “I discovered very soon the potential and beauty of the Balkan region and took it as a new challenge for my personal growth. I needed something to come out of my comfort zone and to challenge my self. So I moved to Croatia. The purpose of founding BBH was to challenge myself every day and since that day I strive for innovative solutions, that enable clients to cross the bridge into Central Europe. I am committed to provide my partners and clients the added value their business needs and to convince them all by the great chances and opportunities the SEE market offers.”
What do you love the most about your job?
Markus Renz: “No day is like the other. Each day awaits with new challenges. I have the vision of a connected Europe: people, jobs and companies. People come to me and ask for help. Every day I am in contact with people, their issues and together with our Senior Experts we create solutions. (I go to bed and I know, that each day a new challenge awaits me, and I am hungry for more!) My job is full of variety, and it never gets boring. I really enjoy and appreciate the work with my team. I like being around them, sharing my thoughts, motivation, and daily ideas.”
And what do you like about Croatia?
Markus Renz: “Only four million people live in Croatia, but they will make a difference to you and your company – even to your stay in Croatia. Fortunately, Croatians tend to be friendly, helpful and English-speaking, not to mention funny and culturally switched-on, as outlined here. Moreover, the landscape is amazing: 1000s of islands, 8 national parks and amazing cities such as Zagreb, Zadar, Split or Dubrovnik. At last I like the food and wine, sea, people and spirit of the young generation.”
What are your goals for the future?
Markus Renz: “As I already mentioned I am really looking forward to bringing added value to the SEE market and reveal all the benefits Croatia has to offer. I’m convinced that together with BBH’s expertise and knowledge and the right people, who are ready and motivated to enrich the SEE market, we can build very soon something big and make a better future together. I am determined that this will result in a movement, supported by excitement which cannot be stopped anymore – Like a suction effect where you get inspired and motivated by passionate people and go with the flow.”
What’s the biggest factor that has helped you beeing successful?
Success is different for everyone – for me success means always doing your best. If you believe you can, you will succeed. Self-belief doesn’t come naturally to everyone, so if you’re able to tell yourself that you can achieve the goals in your plans, you’re doing great. And you need vision and passion. Work without passion creates undue stress and empty achievements. Focus on what excites you. If you’re happy at your job, that’s great.
How do you push through your worst times?
Markus Renz: “I know this may sound a bit cliché, but life is not the way it’s supposed to be, it’s the way it is. The way you cope is what makes the difference. When you stay positive, you’re putting yourself in the best position possible to not only make it through those tough times, but become a better person in the process. There are times when you can’t do much to change your situation. You just have to deal with it. But there are other times when you can actively work to make the situation better. Sometimes it’s best to take a step back and see the bigger picture. You often discover something that was hidden right in front of you.”
As you see, Markus Renz is completely convinced, that there will be a chance for everyone in Europe. He is not the classical leader, rather a founder and futurist who impresses and thrills people. Every person, who is with him, is drawn by his vision and wants to create a future in and for Croatia.
