CEELMDirect Profile Pick: A series of interviews with partners and firms with Premium profiles on the CEELMDirect legal directory. Today’s interview: Vladimir Bojanovic, Managing Partner at Bojanovic & Partners in Belgrade.
CEELMDirect: Hi Vladimir – thanks for joining us. Let's start at the beginning. What led you into the law in the first place?
Bojanovic: I never doubted for a second that I wanted to be a business lawyer, and I think I had this notion since I was a kid. The most direct trigger event was a cheesy TV show about lawyers on Wall Street – I cannot recall the name. However, the real reason is that, at an early age, I realized I had the ability to understand complex concepts and apply them easily in the real world. This was my opportunity, as the best lawyers see and grab opportunities when they arise. I was lucky to find like-minded partners and team members.
I think this has translated directly into our business. One of the challenges of running a thriving business is that there are many ways to measure success. For many, success means profit. For us – and I think this applies equally to me and our lawyers – it means applying our ability to solve problems for our clients. We simply try to make their businesses better... and so far we have been successful.
CEELMDirect: What was your favorite course and professor in law school?
Bojanovic: Interestingly, it was not at law school but in my MBA program – I would say Corporate Finance, at Cambridge, taught by Professor David Chambers. It helped me understand business so well.
CEELMDirect: When did BOPA open its doors, and what was its first successful client matter?
Bojanovic: We opened the firm in 2012, although many of our team members have worked together since the mid-90s. Our first matter was one of the landmark projects in Serbia, which inevitably led to a combination of feelings. I can just say we were so proud at the end, and it opened doors for so many other opportunities.
CEELMDirect: What firm social event or retreat have you enjoyed most over the years?
Bojanovic: Every year we have retreats in one of the 13 countries where our legal practice has offices (we have 350 lawyers in the region). The last one was in magical Zabola, a castle from the 13th century in Transylvania. I loved it so much.
CEELMDirect: Does the firm have anything special planned for 2023?
Bojanovic: We are just starting. Huge things are coming.
CEELMDirect: Sounds good, Vladimir. We look forward to hearing about them, and seeing them reflected on your firm's CEELMDirect profile!
