Martin Svátek

Winner of

Smart Deal Project Development Challenge 2024

Interview about my Smart Challenge experience

Why did you decide to attend the Smart Deal Challenge?

My registration for Smart Deal was quite rushed, as I signed up on the very last possible day. All decision-making therefore had to happen quickly. There was no time to evaluate it in a broader context. The basic framework was clearly defined – a motivating financial reward, an opportunity to test my own skills, and a chance to try something new. For these reasons, I didn’t hesitate and signed up.

What was the biggest challenge in this contest for you?

The biggest challenge for me was dealing with a mistake I made in my presentation. During the presentation, I had to explain to the jury how the mistake occurred and that part of my presentation was incorrect.

If you had a chance to participate in the Smart Deal Challenge again, what would you do differently?

I would definitely check my presentation more carefully to avoid having to explain my own mistakes. I would also find out more information about the competition itself and register earlier than the last possible day.

What tips would you give other students thinking of entering the competition?

Don't underestimate the whole thing. You need to devote sufficient time to preparing your presentation. Also, be prepared for challenging questions from the jury. These are often very specific and detailed. It's also better to admit your own ignorance than to make things up.

You’ve been a Junior Project Management Consultant for six months now. Can you share with potential Smart Deal participants what you are currently working on?

At Penta, I have the opportunity to participate in several interesting projects. These projects are unique in terms of type, location, and complexity.   At the same time, I am surrounded by experienced people. I dare say that they are the best in the field, and I have the opportunity to learn from them every day.

What do you like most about your job and the culture at Penta Real Estate?

What I like most about working at Penta is the overall atmosphere in the company. Everyone here is positive, constructive, and willing to help.

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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.