Tanja Blatnik – Get to know our VAB member
It is our pleasure to introduce Tanja Blatnik, who recently joined the VAB community. She is originally from Slovenia, but currently located in Romania, where she tackled the role of CEO of the country’s largest insurance company. Over the past 20 years, she has gained extensive experience in the insurance sector, holding multiple executive (C-level) roles (Adriatic Slovenica, Generali and more). Currently, Tanja serves as VP for Insurance at US-based technology startup FlowX.ai, that helps global banks and insurance companies improve and speed up their digital transformation. She is also adviser to GenePlanet, a global genetics company focused on providing genetic insights to the broader public in order to promote healthier lifestyles and preventative measures in insurance. If you’re interested in learning more about Tanja’s board aspirations or her experience in the insurance industry or start-up development space, feel free to contact her.
What inspired you to become a member of the Virtual Advisory Board community?
I find VAB distinctly different due to the passion and dedication of its leadership team. Their welcoming processes and amazing people create an environment where everyone freely shares their expertise and knowledge, reflecting the generosity of the powerful and experienced individuals who form this community.
In what area do you feel board advisors can add the most value for Boards of Directors (BoDs) and executive teams?
The greatest value comes from advisors’ ability to help organisations make smart, innovative decisions. It’s incredibly beneficial when executives or board members can reach out to someone outside their immediate circle for an independent, fresh perspective on their challenges.
What would be your dream company/organisation to work with as a board advisor/NED?
My deep knowledge of the insurance industry can be especially helpful to startups looking for answers to questions or advice on how to navigate this niche space, or to established insurance companies facing digitalisation challenges which often involves more cultural changes as opposed to just new technology discussions.
What book or podcast would you recommend to VAB members that might improve their skills in corporate governance, board advisory or boosting board-to-executive team communications?
I strongly recommend The Ride of a Lifetime by Robert Iger, who led Disney as its CEO. It’s a great read about leadership and decision-making. Beyond that, my advice is to keep learning, stay curious and enjoy the journey of being a board advisor. It may take time to find the right opportunity, but I do believe there is always someone who can benefit from your insights.
