Filip Vachovec
Winner of
Smart Deal M&A Challenge 2025
Interview about my Smart Challenge experience
Why did you decide to attend Smart Deal Challenge last year?
I was curious what the competition was about and I wanted some challenge, so I decided to sign up. The chance of getting a job offer from Penta was also a great incentive. When I qualified for the second round and got the case, I realized I really wanted to deliver a good result, so from that moment I took it seriously.
What was the biggest challenge on this contest for you?
The time. I had a lot going on back then, so I probably had less time than some of the other participants. It was also difficult to understand the industry in such a short period. But in the end it worked out.
If you would have a chance to participate in Smart Deal Challenge again, what would you do differently?
I would definitely prepare more for the presentation. I spent almost all my time on the financial model, but the presentation is maybe even more important. The model has to be good, of course, but what the jury sees is mainly the presentation.
What tips would you give to other students thinking of entering the competition?
Do not underestimate your competition. Prepare well for the presentation and know your own output very well, so you can answer the questions you get. And don't forget your suit!
What do you do in PENTA now?
I am responsible for media, I also work on healthcare projects and on other industries when there is an opportunity, plus various ad hoc tasks.
What do you like the most about you job and culture in PENTA?
There are a few things. The access, for one. You sit close to the management of Penta and of the portfolio companies, and you see how some of the best people in the region think. Then the fact that no two businesses are the same, so you are constantly learning, and because we invest across several countries, you are never stuck in one market. And the deals are large enough that the work actually has an impact.
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ABOUT PENTA
Penta is a Central European investment group established in 1994. Today, it focuses on long-term investments in retail, healthcare, real estate development, financial services, manufacturing and media. Penta is one of the largest employers in the region and provides jobs to more than 60,000 people. The Group operates in more than 10 European countries and has offices in Prague, Bratislava, Warsaw and Limassol.
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ABOUT PENTA REAL ESTATE
Penta Real Estate was formed by separating the real estate division from the company Penta Investments, whose origins date back to 1994. Penta Group entered the real estate sector in 2005 and has since expanded its activities across the Czech Republic, Slovakia, the United Kingdom and Poland.
Our goal is to create buildings that contribute to the urban development of a given location. We therefore work together with top architects and engineers and other respected professionals in the field. Our experience combined with their creativity and focus guarantees the highest quality and investment value of our real estate portfolio.
