Martin Krchňavý
Winner of
Smart Deal M&A Challenge 2016
Interview about my Smart Challenge experience
Why did you decide to attend Smart Deal Challenge last year?
Firstly, I wanted to work in Penta, and Smart Deal is the only way in. I also liked that the first round is just a simple quiz without any need for preparation, so time investment was very low. Finally, prize money is very good, especially for the student competition.
What was the biggest challenge on this contest for you?
Time management during the second round. The case study is very complex and I had to research the topic, prepare a detailed business plan and valuation and deliver an effective presentation within four days. Cancel all your weekend plans if you get through the first round.
What tips would you give other students thinking of entering the competition?
Definitely try it out in the first place. First round primarily tests your logic and its speed, so if you are stuck, move on. Finally, be relaxed during the final presentation, which is easier said than done, but remember – it’s just a student competition.
What do you do in Penta now?
My first project was Slovalco – a large aluminum producer in Slovakia, where I worked my way up to the Board of Directors and I cooperate with the management and the other shareholder on a daily basis.
Recently I also started to work on Penta’s healthcare projects, where my job varies from macroeconomic modeling to communication with owners of the potential acquisition target.
What do you like most about your job and culture in Penta?
I like Penta’s goal-oriented culture. Tasks need to be done, but the way is up to me. But the absolute best benefit of Penta is that I work with very skilled professionals, from which I have learned a lot.
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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.
