Božo Dragoslavić
As Group Utilities Manager at Vetropack, Božo Dragoslavić ensures that the Group's supply systems – electrical infrastructure, compressed air and cooling – remain reliable, efficient and future-proof. His work is closely linked to the Vetropack Strategy 2030+. Electrification, energy efficiency and infrastructure modernisation are key components of the company's decarbonisation roadmap.
«Across Vetropack Group, we are also investing in photovoltaic systems and other energy recovery systems. Our goal is to reduce our carbon footprint and position ourselves for the future.»
From his office in Hum na Sutli, Božo starts his day with emails and video calls – essential for staying in touch with colleagues throughout the Vetropack Group. “We work across several countries, so digital communication is essential,” he says. Božo usually manages several projects at the same time, each with its own schedule and technical focus. To make progress, he works closely with the technical managers of the plants, the Technology and Projects department and external contractors.
His work combines planning and implementation. “I draw up technical specifications, evaluate offers and coordinate with suppliers,” he describes. “Depending on the project phase, I work in the office or on site at the plant.” He currently spends three to four days a week in Austria, where his main projects are based.
One of these is the Rezon project in Pöchlarn, which will enable the industrial production of the first thermally strengthened lightweight glass bottles. “We started civil works on site in July 2025 and are currently preparing the infrastructure for the installation of a large-scale machine,” says Božo. The site should be ready to accommodate the new Rezon machine by the end of 2025, with the equipment scheduled to begin operating in summer 2026.
The second project involves the construction of a new transformer station and a substation, also in Pöchlarn. “This will increase energy efficiency and reliability,” explains Božo. “It is part of our efforts to modernise the infrastructure and secure future growth.
Both projects are closely linked to Vetropack's Strategy 2030+ and sustainability goals. “Across Vetropack Group, we are also investing in photovoltaic systems and other energy recovery systems,” he adds. “Our goal is to reduce our carbon footprint and position ourselves for the future.”
With a background in electrical engineering, an MBA and experience in the mechanical engineering and pharmaceutical industries, Božo joined Vetropack as Group Energy Manager in 2019. ‘The glass industry was new to me,’ he says. ‘But utilities and investment projects have been a common thread throughout my career.‘
This common thread continues at Vetropack. What began with energy metering and reporting soon grew into responsibility for utilities, the energy supply systems, of the entire Group. Today, Božo Dragoslavić drives large, multidisciplinary investment projects. ‘We don't just measure energy – we shape the transformation of the company,’ he emphasises.
Božo works closely with the technical team. Weekly coordination meetings help to set priorities and exchange information. ‘Our team is spread across different locations, so face-to-face meetings are rare, but the collaboration works extremely well,’ he says.
He also promotes knowledge sharing between the plants. ‘Each plant has its own maintenance and technical team,’ he explains. ‘With my group-wide perspective, I support them with best practices and technical expertise, especially when it comes to larger investments.’
What Božo particularly appreciates about his work is solving complex challenges. ‘We often face situations that require creative approaches,’ he explains. ‘Before a project starts, there is a lot of preparatory work to be done: reviewing options, running simulations, preparing and discussing cost-benefit analyses. I particularly enjoy this behind-the-scenes phase.‘
He is also enthusiastic about the diversity of his work across countries and cultures. ‘Every project is different,’ he says. ‘I enjoy the freedom to shape each day a new.’ To balance his work, Bozo finds relaxation in spending time with his family. He enjoys cooking and playing chess with his children – activities that, like his job, require strategy, concentration and the right timing.