What were your beginnings in the company and what led you to head the Polish branch?

My journey with KOH-I-NOOR Polska began in April 2000. I started in the sales department. It was a very challenging time – the Polish branch was undergoing reorganization. We had to find new premises, build a team, organize a warehouse. The aerosol market was completely new to me – I had to learn everything from scratch. Although my first contract was only for a trial period, my dream was to prove my worth and gain trust. Gradually, I gained experience and thanks to my dedication and consistency, I gradually took on more responsibilities until I was entrusted with leading the entire branch.

What did the branch look like back then and how has it changed since?

At the beginning, the Polish branch was very small and its structures were just forming. We didn’t have stable processes or facilities. Today, it is a completely different organization – a professional, efficient team, modern procedures, and full integration with the headquarters in Czechia. We are not only an efficient operational unit but also a strategic partner in achieving the goals of the entire KOH-I-NOOR group.

Which key moments have stuck in your memory the most?

Definitely adapting the company to conditions after Poland’s entry into the European Union. That was a huge leap in terms of quality and procedural requirements. I also remember the various stages of transformation at the headquarters in Mladá Vožice – expansion of the plant, introduction of robotic production lines, and modern management models that required constant adaptation from us in Poland. Key moments also include when our customers decided to continue cooperation – because they knew they could rely on us.

What success in leading the Polish branch are you most proud of? What impact did this success have on the team and the company as a whole?

I am most proud of creating a team that trusts each other, works with dedication, and grows together with the company. The last few years confirm this – over five years we have maintained customer loyalty above 93%. This is a huge success that speaks not only to product quality but also to the relationships we build with customers. It is proof for me that our professionalism and values have a direct impact on the company’s market position.

What do you consider your greatest first BUSINESS success?

Definitely cooperation with Pharma-C-Food. I pursued this client for almost five years. At that time their main supplier was a competing company LINDAL, so breaking into their supply chain required a lot of patience and perseverance. I think we gained their trust thanks to our reliability, flexibility, and ability to respond quickly – especially in situations where every hour counted. I remember how important that first order number was – and how happy we were about it. And globally, of course, the position and market share we managed to achieve on the Polish market over these years.

How do you envision the future of the Polish branch? What are your plans for further development and growth?

I see the future of KOH-I-NOOR Polska as continuing dynamic development. We want to strengthen our market position, expand our offer, introduce new service standards, and integrate even better into modern processes at our Czech headquarters. Change is our daily reality – but thanks to a strong team and clear values we are ready for it. My goal is further development of a company based on trust, knowledge, and quality – a company worth collaborating with for another 25 years.

Has your approach to clients changed over the years?

Not really. From the beginning I believed that every customer deserves maximum attention and professional care – regardless of company size. I don’t believe in “less important” customers – every business partner is an important part of the whole system and a reliable supplier of components directly affects production smoothness. This philosophy works for me to this day.

What did you want to be when you were little? And when did you decide on a career in business?

As a five-year-old I dreamed of becoming a driver of a big truck! Big vehicles fascinated me and I imagined myself sitting behind their wheel. Today I laugh at it – but I really spend much of my work week in a car, so my wish actually came true 😊.

What definitely makes you laugh?

Intelligent people with sharp, often sarcastic humor – ideally with a stone poker face. I love situational humor and quick, witty remarks. When I meet such a conversation partner, they immediately win me over!

What do you like to do in your free time?

Read. A lot. Sci-fi doesn’t really interest me – maybe I’m too realistic – but I love biographies, reports, historical novels, and non-fiction literature. Stories of real people are an endless source of inspiration for me.

Do you have any weakness that people usually don’t know about?

Yes. My brain has always worked in “symmetrical mathematical sequences” – automatically counting things I see: number of tiles, leaves, sticks in fences… my brain counts them, sorts them out and calms down only when the result is even; otherwise it doesn’t let go. For a long time I thought it was some oddity that I’d rather not mention. Today I look at it with perspective – maybe it’s just my way of relaxing 😊.

And finally – what would you say to yourself 25 years ago?

Never lose faith in people. And don’t be afraid of changes – they are what push you forward and lead you to places you once only dreamed about.

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Mr. Zeman, how did you get a job in KOH-I-NOOR Mladá Vožice a.s. and what position did you initially start with?

My path to the company was quite straightforward. I am originally from this region, and after my military service, when I got married and my daughter was born, I was looking for an apartment. KIN offered me one along with a job that matched my profession. Although I had to cover a sum for my previous studies, KIN paid this amount, allowing me to start working immediately. I have been working here since 1982, with a short break when I temporarily left the company. Initially, I joined as an Independent Testing Technician focused on incoming inspection.

Do you remember your first day? What were your feelings and expectations?

Yes, I remember October 4, 1982, very well. I came from a modern company to a similar modern one, but the environment of an old castle where production was located was quite unusual. My expectations and feelings were mixed since there was no one to take over the role from. However, my colleagues were very helpful. I expected to enjoy the work and earn a good living, which indeed happened. I could not have imagined gradual career growth all the way to eventually the position of Production and Technical Director when I first started.

Throughout your career in this company, you have held various positions. Could you describe your professional journey and highlight some key moments that influenced you the most?

I started in the quality department, where experts taught me a lot and gave me a solid foundation. Over time, I went through several positions – from Independent Testing Technician to Shift Control Manager, Production Supervisor, Production Center Manager, Production Director, and finally Production and Technical Director. After a short break, I returned as the Head of Setters and gradually moved back into quality positions where now I am sharing my experience and knowledge gained over the years and positions with my colleagues. Key moments of my career included the development of new products and technologies, the acquisition of unique machines, the relocation of production to a new facility, and much more.

How has the company changed during your tenure? What were the biggest changes you noticed in company culture or overall operations?

The company has undergone significant changes, just like Czech society as a whole. The key moments included separating from KIN Prague and privatization, which led to a complete transformation of company culture. Another crucial decision was building additional production facilities, which took the company to a new level. Automation and robotics have influenced processes, the production portfolio has changed, and the company has expanded globally.

What do you enjoy the most about working in KOH-I-NOOR? What gives you the greatest professional satisfaction?

Working at KIN has always fulfilled me. I have influenced the development of technologies and human potential, managed crisis situations, which gave me adrenaline and satisfaction. Currently, I work in a more routine environment and focus on passing my knowledge to colleagues, which I consider crucial for maintaining the company’s skills.

What were the biggest challenges you faced in the company? How did you overcome them, and what did you learn from them?

A major challenge was becoming part of the company’s top management and achieving set goals, which I believe I managed well. Other challenges included ensuring the profitability of candle production, a product outside our core portfolio but linked to our manufacturing expertise, and entering new markets. I overcame many technical and interpersonal obstacles, which taught me empathy and effective communication, how to manage and connect with people.

Could you describe your colleagues and the company atmosphere? What makes KOH-I-NOOR special to you?

Honestly, I’ve been fortunate to work with people who are not only professionals but also great individuals on a personal level. We’ve always been able to resolve any problems effectively. The company atmosphere is probably similar to other companies, but it offers many benefits. What makes the company unique is its product – aerosol valves, which are produced by only a few companies worldwide.

Finally, what advice would you give to young people considering a job in this company? What qualities and skills do you think are necessary to succeed?

KIN, like many other companies, faces a shortage of skilled professionals. To succeed here, all that is needed is effort, diligence, healthy self-confidence, patience, and a willingness to learn.

Could you share a funny or inspiring story from your time working in this company?

There are many funny stories, some of which probably shouldn’t be published, so I’d rather leave this topic closed.

What message would you like to send to the company’s management and your colleagues?

I don’t have any extraordinary message for the management since we regularly meet and discuss issues. The management takes my opinions seriously, and our meetings are constructive. My usual message remains: I wish you all energy, professionalism, good fortune, and empathy. The same applies to my colleagues – we have always been able to collaborate both professionally and in communication.

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We’re excited to share that our Chief Sales and Strategy Officer Michal Bucko took the stage at the 26th Annual Seminar of the Czech Aerosol Association, held on October 3rd & 4th at the picturesque Karlovy Vary (Karlsbad).

During this insightful event, Michal Bucko delved into the dynamic world of aerosol innovation. His talk centred around mindset, framework and methodologies needed for development of innovative solutions. We believe aerosol industry has great potential in exploring new solutions including new business models which create substantial value for customers and final consumers.

This seminar was fantastic opportunity to exchange knowledge and ideas with industry experts, and we’re grateful for the platform to contribute to the ongoing discourse in aerosol technology.

We’d like to thank to all participants for sharing their insights.

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What an incredible experience it has been connecting with potential clients and industry partners at the event!

Sharing our extensive aerosol manufacturing expertise with esteemed industry experts has been truly invigorating.

At Booth 12, we’ve been showcasing our diverse range of aerosol products, featuring state-of-the-art valves, actuators, and cups. The enthusiasm and interest from everyone who stopped by have been inspiring.

The 11th Latin American Aerosol Congress has provided a platform for us to not only present our products but also to learn from the brilliant minds in the industry. The exchange of knowledge and ideas has been invaluable.

A big thank you to everyone who visited us at the congress. Your interest and support mean a lot to us.

Let’s continue this journey of innovation and collaboration!

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