At this year’s WomenIn Business – Regional Conference, two extraordinary women will bring their expertise, energy, and vision to the stage—each representing a different but equally powerful dimension of leadership: public policy and entrepreneurship.
Dr. Jerneja Jug Jerše: From Brussels to Ljubljana – A Voice for Economic Progress
Dr. Jerneja Jug Jerše, who has served as Head of the European Commission Representation in Slovenia since April 16, 2021, will share with the audience a wealth of international experience and institutional insight.
With a degree in economics from the Faculty of Economics in Ljubljana, a master’s from the College of Europe in Bruges, and a PhD from the University of Nottingham, Dr. Jerše’s academic background stands out as truly impressive.
But it is her practical, real-world influence that sets her apart.
Having spent the majority of her career in Brussels, Dr. Jerše will share her experience about EU policy across several Directorates-General—from structural reform and economic affairs to internal market regulation.
Her work touches on everything from technical assistance to deepening the Economic and Monetary Union.
Fluent in seven languages, she embodies not just the intellectual breadth required in European policymaking, but also the human dimension of diplomacy—building bridges across cultures, borders, and ideas.
Manca Dežman: Where Creativity Meets Purpose
On the entrepreneurial front, Manca Dežman will take the stage with a different kind of power—creative, dynamic, and deeply people-centered.
As the founder and director of Bold Projects, a boutique marketing agency known for award-winning campaigns and events, Manca will bring her unique blend of strategy and creativity.
She’s also the Vice President of ONA VE (“She Knows”), a Slovenian association focused on empowering and connecting women in business.
Her work bridges marketing, innovation, and social impact—helping entrepreneurs tell their stories, build their brands, and turn bold ideas into reality.
With a natural balance of structure and creativity, Manca will demonstrate how she thrives on finding unique solutions and pushing boundaries.
A Shared Stage, A Shared Vision
Though their paths are different, Dr. Jerše and Manca Dežman will embody the spirit of this year’s WomenIn Business conference: purpose-driven leadership, cross-sector collaboration, and the power of women to shape the future—whether in policy, business, or community.
