This publication is part of BALFIN Group’s Success Stories, a series of interviews with standout employees.

Ana Bregu-  Brand Communication coordinator at Spar Albania

Ana Bregu’s journey at BALFIN Group reflects her passion and commitment to growth. Starting as a Digital Media Specialist, she gradually took on more responsibility, becoming the Brand Communication Coordinator at SPAR Albania. With a focus on learning and teamwork, Ana has embraced challenges and contributed to the company’s success while continuing to develop her own skills. Her story is one of steady progress and dedication.

Can you tell us about your journey within BALFIN Group and how it has evolved over the years?

I joined BALFIN Group four years ago as a Digital Media Specialist after a decade in telecommunications, stepping into a new field that quickly became my passion. Two years later, I was promoted to Online Media Manager, working with leading media outlets, and organizing key events. Now, as Brand Communication Coordinator at SPAR Albania, I manage online, BTL, and ATL communications. I’ve been fortunate to work in an environment where I’ve felt 100% valued and encouraged to push beyond my comfort zone. BALFIN has been an incredibly rewarding experience, offering me so many opportunities and teaching me resilience and adaptability.

What were some of the key challenges you faced early in your career, and how did you overcome them?

As a new digital marketer in retail, I encountered challenges like fast-changing technology, shifting consumer behaviors, data overload, strong competition, and the need for engaging content. To tackle these issues, I prioritize continuous learning through company training, create content based on audience feedback, and work closely with teams to ensure our strategies are aligned.

Was there a particular project or achievement that marked a turning point in your career?

It surely was successfully managing all three communication profiles—online, BTL, and ATL—during the last seven months. Managing these diverse communication strategies was a considerable challenge, but it allowed me to showcase my adaptability and strengthen my skill set. This experience not only solidified my role within the team but also increased my confidence in navigating high-pressure situations.

How do you maintain a balance between innovation and staying aligned with the company’s long-term goals?

As a Brand communication coordinator, I balance innovation with the company’s long-term goals by staying in close touch with leadership to ensure new ideas align with our strategy. Encouraging my team members to brainstorm creative solutions while keeping our main objectives in mind. By tracking how these innovations perform, I can adjust our approach as needed while staying focused on our goals.

What personal qualities do you believe contributed most to your success in the company?

I attribute my success in the company to my flexibility, positive outlook, and proactive approach to problem-solving. I’m always ready to adapt to new situations and challenges, and I focus on finding solutions rather than just highlighting issues. I believe my enthusiasm for my job energizes my colleagues as well and encourages a collaborative atmosphere

How has the company’s culture played a role in your personal and professional development?

The company’s culture has significantly impacted on my personal and professional development. From day one, I felt supported and valued, which encouraged me to grow. The extensive training opportunities provided, have equipped me with the skills I need to succeed. I’m grateful for these opportunities and want to publicly thank SPAR for their unwavering support in my journey.

What advice would you give to someone just starting out in their career at this company or in this industry?

My advice to someone aspiring to a similar career is to stay curious and embrace continuous learning. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and take on new responsibilities beyond your job description, as this is where you’ll grow the most. Finally, be passionate about your work and always look for ways to contribute meaningfully, as this will set you apart and lead to fulfilling opportunities.

How do you approach leadership, and what do you think sets apart great leaders from good ones?

Although I don’t consider myself an experienced leader yet, I hope to be a mentor for my team. I believe in creating an environment where everyone feels heard and valued for their work. Great leaders inspire and empower their teams, and I want to do the same by listening to my colleagues and recognizing their contributions. This approach helps build trust and motivation within the team.

What future goals or ambitions do you have within the company, and how do you plan to achieve them?

I aspire to build a long-term career at BALFIN, continuously contributing to our growth and success. My goal is to take on greater responsibilities, further develop my skills, and drive innovative strategies that align with our vision. To achieve this, I plan to maintain my strong work ethic and collaborate closely with my colleagues to enhance our team’s impact.