Kristián Chlepko
Winner of
Smart Deal Business Development Challenge 2023
Interview about my Smart Challenge experience
Why did you decide to attend the Smart Deal Challenge?
My main motivation was the opportunity to join a team that plays a key role in shaping the future of the capitals of the Czech Republic and Slovakia. Of course, my competitive spirit and the generous prize for students were also strong incentives.
What was the biggest challenge in this contest for you?
Definitely preparing the case study. As a management student, I had limited exposure to the real estate sector and I think I had never prepared a valuation before. In a short time, I had to understand a relatively complex assignment and prepare a high-quality valuation, which I later had to defend in front of a jury.
If you had a chance to participate in the Smart Deal Challenge again, what would you do differently?
I would allocate more time to the actual preparation of the case study. I spent too much time on theoretical research and market analysis, and ended up working on the valuation and my proposed solution under time pressure. The outcome was pretty solid, but I know I could do even better if I focused more on that part.
What tips would you give other students thinking of entering the competition?
If you're not familiar with real estate or valuation, I highly recommend reviewing the basics—especially for the knowledge-based first round. When it comes to the second round and preparing your valuation, make sure you leave yourself enough time. Be creative, don’t be afraid to think outside the box, and most importantly, enjoy the process—it’s a great experience.
You’ve been a Junior Business Development Consultant for more than a year. Can you share with potential Smart Deal participants what you are currently working on?
As part of the Business Development team, I get to work on a wide range of interesting tasks—from the development of the Chalupkova zone and office leasing, to analyzing potential acquisitions or joint venture opportunities, handling ad hoc assignments, and even contributing to the sale process of Bory Mall. Last but not least, I also help prepare market analyses and various reporting materials.
What do you like most about your job and the culture at Penta Real Estate?
What I appreciate most is the opportunity to work on meaningful tasks from day one, with a lot of freedom in how I approach them. At the same time, I’m surrounded by experienced professionals who are always willing to share their knowledge, which creates a great environment for learning and growth. On top of that, we’re an amazing team—not just at work, but also outside the office. We don’t just work well together — we genuinely enjoy hanging out after hours, whether it’s at a sports game, quiz night, or something spontaneous.
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ABOUT PENTA
Penta is a Central European investment group established in 1994. Today, it focuses on long-term investments into healthcare, financial services, manufacturing, retail, media and real estate development. Penta is one of the largest employers in the region and provides jobs to more than 43,000 people. The Group operates in more than 10 European countries and has offices in Prague, Bratislava and Warsaw.
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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 become the leader in the real estate market in the Czech Republic, Slovakia 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.
