Digitalisation and automation from the viewpoint of a global company headed by a Czech manager with international experience. This is the subject of an interview with Vítězslav Lukáš, Executive Director of ABB s.r.o. Czech Republic, who discusses his experience within the Czech industry.
Your company is a technology leader in industry digitalisation. How advanced is the implementation of digitalisation within the Czech industry?
The Czech industry is aligning with global trends in digitalisation, increasingly integrating digital technologies into both management systems and production processes, similar to companies in other developed nations. However, it is difficult to quantify the overall level of digitalisation and make direct
comparisons with competitors.
Digitalisation is undoubtedly a key factor in maintaining competitiveness, and it is evident that some segments of the traditional Czech industry are falling behind compared to their international counterparts. Various factors, such as energy prices, could be contributing to this lag. However, even in the energy sector, digitalisation offers numerous solutions that result in cost savings. ABB, for instance, provides a wide array of digital solutions for the industry, ranging from more efficient electric drives and
robots to advanced production process control. Additionally, our intelligent building solutions are also noteworthy.
Robotics and automation are also significant strengths for ABB. In addition to manufacturing robots in the Czech Republic, you integrate them with AI. How successful has this been?
Our state-of-the-art robotics centre in Mošnov, near Ostrava, focuses on both the production and the research and development of robotic applications, including AI integration. This has led to a consistent increase in orders, even in a highly competitive market. Our expertise is driven by a dedicated team of professionals, and it is no coincidence that we have established a strong global presence in the Moravian-Silesian region. The region’s focus on technology, which we are helping to adapt to the higher demands
of the international market, along with its high-quality technical education, contribute significantly to our success.
As part of the management team of a global company, you are responsible for overseeing and connecting international teams. From a senior manager’s viewpoint, does this offer advantages?
Throughout my more than 25-year career with ABB, I have gained a wealth of knowledge from my international assignments. It is not just about adapting to different work and cultural environments, different rhythms, or various types of clients. For instance, working in Singapore was an educational experience for me, showcasing the incredible speed at which the region can implement robotics and automation.
The era when all development was concentrated in Europe, North America, and Japan is over. Nowadays, we must broaden our perspective and recognise trends emerging from a wider range of countries. During my time at ABB, I have worked in various countries and across multiple divisions, engaging in roles such as project management, service delivery, and business development. In summary, ABB provides a wide array of opportunities across numerous fields.
Working at ABB presents a unique opportunity for enthusiastic graduates and professionals who value personal growth as well as the ongoing development of their company. There is a constant shortage of such talented individuals in the Czech labour market, and we are always on the lookout for them, offering truly compelling professional opportunities.
Thank you for the interview.
