The latest episode of the podcast Business Club with Branko Azeski, featured Filip Nikoloski, owner of the renowned Skopje kafeana Uranija and a seasoned expert in finance and investment banking—a man who has experienced both the public and private sectors firsthand. The discussion focuses on the current state of the banking system and the ongoing pension system reforms.

Nikoloski began his professional career at Automobile SK as a marketing manager before moving to Komercijalna Banka, where he worked as a financial analyst.

In the podcast, he shared his experience leading KB First Pension Company AD Skopje—a reform supported by two politically different governments due to its importance for both citizens and the state. During his tenure, the value of the two open pension funds under the company’s management grew from €80 million to €450 million.

Nikoloski also served as Deputy Minister of Finance from 2022 to 2024. When asked about that experience, he noted that every government leaves its own mark but expressed regret that, in our country, people tend to remember only the negative or unfinished aspects of political work. He said he accepted the position out of patriotism and worked professionally, believing his long-standing financial expertise could benefit the country.

“Wearing the national jersey in public administration is an act of patriotism—just as paying taxes and throwing garbage in the proper place is. Patriotism isn’t just about what flag you wave or whether you sing the anthem,” Nikoloski said.

Later in the podcast, Nikoloski discussed the state of the Ministry of Finance, emphasizing its institutional power. Despite the large number of employees, he believes only a few are true professionals. To improve the situation, he pointed to the need for better working conditions and competitive salaries to attract skilled professionals. According to him, working in the Ministry of Finance—the heart and engine of any executive branch—requires expertise, competence, strong engagement, and dedication.

Nikoloski also shared some personal insights: how he came to manage Uranija, his plans for Krushevo, the hometown of his family, and Ohrid, where his wife comes from. He spoke about his hobbies, his passion for skiing and mountaineering, and the everyday challenges of running a business.