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Hristivoje Milošević: Work Is Not Just a Career – It's a Mindset
Hristivoje Milošević: Work Is Not Just a Career – It’s a Mindset
In an era where careers often shift every few years, a story of stability lasting decades stands out as a rare exception—and is all the more valuable because of it.
One of the people who still shows up for work every day—not because he has to, but because he wants to—is Hristivoje Milošević. At 93 years old, he still begins each workday by arriving at the office. His presence is not a symbol of the past but a testament to enduring professional vitality, discipline, and genuine dedication.
Mr. Milošević is living proof that vision, integrity, and perseverance do not fade with age; instead, they gain renewed strength over time. For his exceptionally rich and accomplished life and career, the expert jury of Diplomacy & Commerce magazine awarded him a Lifetime Achievement Award in April this year.
The Making of a Leader
After graduating from university in Belgrade in 1957, Hristivoje Milošević began his career in his hometown of Kruševac. As a scholarship recipient of the company Merima, he grew professionally within its ranks—progressing from a production engineer to general director. Under his leadership, Merima became one of the most prominent enterprises in the former Yugoslavia, employing over a thousand people.
Milošević established himself as a leader capable of recognizing talent, developing systems, and making sound strategic decisions even in complex market and political conditions.
After twenty years at Merima, he continued his career at Inex Interexport, based in Moscow. In 1978, he moved with his family to Russia, where he led the chemical and pharmaceutical division’s regional office. He spent several years there, adapting to a new environment and gaining valuable international experience.
His life philosophy—to always give his best and actively seek new development opportunities—helped him expand partnerships with Western European countries that, at the time, had limited access to the Russian market. As a result, Inex Interexport achieved impressive performance and numerous business successes.
An Entrepreneurial Chapter
Upon returning to Serbia in 2003, Hristivoje Milošević did not see retirement as the end of his career—instead, he embarked on a new professional chapter by becoming an entrepreneur.
In Kruševac, he founded Flory, a factory specializing in the production of baby food. He invested in acquiring cutting-edge know-how technology from a German company, combining experience, knowledge, and modern innovation. Flory successfully launched its products in the Serbian market and soon expanded to Russia, the Middle East, and beyond.
Recognizing the importance of the food industry, he made a further investment in 2005 by purchasing shares and becoming the majority owner of Aleva from Novi Kneževac, a well-known domestic brand with a long tradition.
Today, Aleva has a professional management team, but the family remains actively involved in company operations—particularly his grandchildren, Jelena and Vladimir, who continue the family business story with enthusiasm and a strong sense of responsibility.
Why Do I Still Come to Work?
“A habit? Perhaps. But above all, it’s a sense of responsibility and belonging. My workdays are more relaxed now, but I still focus on what’s essential: strategy, numbers, people,” explains Milošević.
He continues to regularly review sales reports, participate in quarterly meetings, and exchange ideas with management. What drives him is not only the dynamic nature of business but also the opportunity to pass on knowledge and experience to younger colleagues.
His presence at the company is not seen as a relic of the past but as a foundation for the future. He is always ready to offer advice to the younger generations.
Life and Career Lessons
Hristivoje Milošević has distilled his key advice for young business leaders into several key points:
- Surround yourself with capable people
Throughout my career, I relied on the diligence and expertise of my colleagues. Trust and respect aren’t granted by title—they’re earned through results and integrity. - Make decisions with awareness of their consequences
Important decisions don’t just affect you. They impact your family, your team, and your partners. That’s why I make them with great responsibility and careful consideration of all aspects. - Keep learning—even when you think you know enough
Technologies and markets are constantly evolving. Those who stop learning quickly fall behind. Education isn’t a cost—it’s the best investment in personal and professional growth. - Initiative drives progress
The perfect moment rarely arrives. If you wait until you have all the information, you’re probably already too late. Be ready to recognize and seize opportunities—even in uncertain conditions. - Balance between personal and professional life is key to long-term success
Family is your anchor. Business success has true meaning only when shared with those who matter most, through both ups and downs.
Values That Endure
When asked what he believes is the foundation of lasting success—both in business and in family—Mr. Milošević emphasizes:
“Respect, trust, and goodwill. If you nurture these values in everything you do, you will create an environment that can withstand any change. And that will define you as a leader—not just by your results, but by your character. Because work isn’t just a career—it’s a mindset.”
The example of Hristivoje Milošević reminds us that business energy doesn’t have to fade with age. On the contrary—it becomes clearer, calmer, and stronger when guided by the right values: hard work, knowledge, responsibility, and mutual respect.
Photo Copyright: Goran Zlatković, Diplomacy & Commerce magazine
