In today’s fast-changing business world, Human Resources is no longer just about processes or policies. It’s about people, their growth, well-being, and ability to thrive at work. Few professionals bring that people-first mindset to life quite like Milica Devetaković Ćukić, who recently joined Silver Bell Group as our new HR leader.
With experience across multiple industries and teams, Milica offers a thoughtful and strategic approach to HR that blends business goals with human impact.
In this interview, she reflects on the pivotal moments that shaped her, what career growth really means, and how she plans to help SBG continue evolving as a people-driven company.
1. Your career has taken you through different industries, teams, and challenges. Looking back, what was the moment that shaped you the most as an HR leader?
Looking back, for me the moment that shaped me the most as an HR leader was when I truly realized the transformative impact HR can have on individuals’ lives, not just in terms of policies or processes, but in helping people feel better, thrive, and grow at work.
It clicked for me that HR isn’t just about organizational efficiency; it’s about enabling people to reach their potential. I believe that a good HR expert ought to focus more intentionally on creating environments where people feel supported, understood, and empowered.
From that point on, every initiative I led, whether it was talent development, engagement, or performance, was driven by a deeper purpose: to make work a place where people can truly flourish. That moment gave me not only clarity, but a sense of responsibility and motivation that continues to shape my leadership every day.
2. Through all the certifications, companies, and people you’ve worked with—what’s something you learned outside the books that turned out to be the most valuable?
One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned is that no matter the size of the company or the number of employees, what truly matters is the people behind the numbers.
It’s easy to get caught up in metrics, headcounts, and organizational charts, but at the end of the day, people are the core value of any business. Each individual brings unique strengths, challenges, and potential, and when we focus on truly understanding and supporting them, that’s when organizations thrive.
This perspective has shaped how I approach HR—not as a function that manages processes, but as a function that serves people. And that mindset has been the most valuable thing I’ve carried with me through every company, team, and challenge.
3. What’s one misconception people often have about HR, and what would you say instead?
One of the most common misconceptions about HR is that we’re only here to protect the company from its own employees, that our main role is to enforce rules, manage risks, or handle terminations.
While risk management is certainly part of the job, that perception misses the bigger picture. In reality, HR is here to create a bridge between people and the organization, to support a culture where both individuals and the business can thrive.
We’re not on the “company’s side” against employees; we’re on the side of building trust, fairness, and growth.
4. How do you balance business goals with people-first decisions?
For me, balancing business goals with people-first decisions isn’t about choosing one over the other, it’s about recognizing that they’re deeply connected.
A healthy, motivated, and supported workforce is what drives performance and business success. So when I make decisions, I always look at how we can align people’s growth and well-being with the organization’s goals.
5. You’re relatively new to Silver Bell Group—what was your first impression of the people and energy here?
Even before officially starting at Silver Bell Group, I was invited to a team-building event. That experience left a lasting impression.
What immediately stood out to me was the incredible energy and enthusiasm in the room. There was this vibrant, positive vibe, but also a clear sense of professionalism and high-level expertise.
What impressed me most was how open and willing everyone was to help each other, to share their experiences and knowledge without hesitation. It made me feel genuinely excited to join a culture where collaboration and growth aren’t just talked about. That first impression has only been reinforced since I started.
6. What are you most excited to build or improve at SBG in your first year?
Silver Bell Group is already a company with a strong foundation and so much to offer. Dynamic people, great energy, and a fast-growing business.
What excites me most in my first year is the opportunity to build on that foundation by implementing clear, thoughtful HR procedures that elevate and support the business.
My focus in the first year is on developing processes that not only make day-to-day operations smoother but also empower teams to function more efficiently and thrive. It’s about creating structure that adds value, helping the company grow sustainably while keeping the culture and people at the heart of everything.
7. Career growth means different things to different people. For some, it’s about moving up the ladder, for others, it’s about learning, evolving, and finding purpose in what they do. What does “career growth” mean to you and how do you spot that spark in others?
For me, career growth isn’t just about promotions or titles, it’s about the everyday moments that challenge us to think faster, decide smarter, and step outside our comfort zones.
It’s in the tough situations that force us to take calculated risks, or make decisions we may not feel fully ready for, but that pushes us forward. It’s also about the people around us, especially those who are different from us, because that’s where real learning happens. Growth comes from being exposed to new perspectives, adapting, and evolving through experience.
And then one day, almost without realizing it, you look back and see just how far you’ve come, how much stronger, wiser, and more capable you’ve become. That’s what career growth means to me.
As for spotting that spark in others, I look for curiosity, openness, and a willingness to be challenged. People who are hungry to learn, who ask questions, who take ownership even when it’s uncomfortable. That’s where you see real potential taking shape.
8. What have you learned from the SBG team so far, professionally or personally?
What I’ve learned from the SBG team, both professionally and personally, is that no matter our role, department, or seniority, there’s one core value we all share: being a good person.
It sounds simple, but it’s incredibly powerful. Whether we’re solving complex challenges or just going through our day-to-day tasks, there’s a consistent spirit of kindness, respect, and support.
That foundation of humanity and integrity runs through everything, and it’s something I deeply admire. It reminds me that no matter how fast we grow or how ambitious our goals are, it’s who we are to each other that truly defines the culture.
Where We Go From Here
Milica’s perspective is a powerful reminder that HR is not just about structure, but creating environments where people feel supported and empowered to grow. At Silver Bell Group, we believe culture starts with people, and Milica is helping us build on that foundation every day.
If you’re interested in learning more about our culture or becoming part of our story, we’d love to hear from you.
Explore careers at Silver Bell Group or reach out to connect with our team.
