Interview with Nikolay Stoev

Nikolay Stoev
Managing Director – Bulgaria
Start date: 3^rd of January 2023

I am 45 years old and was born in Lovech, a city 35 km away from Pleven. I now live in a small town located in the Balkan mountains. I was educated at the most renowned English language school in Bulgaria where I graduated with honours. I also have a PhD in automation, mechatronics and robotics from the Techincal University of Sofia.

Where have you previously worked?

Throughout my career I have worked as a GM, CEO and COO in various construction, textile and manufacturing companies. As I have worked in various industries, I have in-depth knowledge  from sewing machines to industrial air conditioning systems, boilers, gas stations, production equipment, hoists, cranes and forklifts.

What do you hope to achieve at NFM?

As production here is new, I aim to establish an efficient functioning facility with a solid team that is satisfied and proud of their workplace. I will do my very best to assist them in producing quality products with the best possible financial result.

What motivates you?

I am most exited to work on projects of innovation as well as finding improvements in quality, speed, energy efficiency and working conditions. Great teamwork motivates me and feedback from the team is vital.

What is your greatest achievement?

There are in fact, two.

• I am very proud of my patent for ultrasonic machine cutting, which is completely automatic. It is so advanced, that IKEA have launched a new product based on that, which is low cost and affordable for everyone.
• My staff members have always been very important to me, and I have managed to create valuable teams that work well together. I have always maintained a friendly relationship with all of them.

FUN FACTS

In my free time, I love to go in the mountains close to home – sometimes with friends and sometimes by myself. I enjoy skiing and am certainly not a professional, but good enough.

My biggest hobby is to collect hi-end audio equipment.

What advice would you give a younger you?

Travel more and see all possible places you can. Enjoy everything!