Klára Korityáková

What was your journey before Nordbeans?

During high school, I worked as a server at weddings and in restaurants, where I gained my first experience in the gastronomy industry. After graduating from high school, I moved to Prague and started working at Costa Coffee. I appreciated the systematic approach and well-defined processes, which allowed not only for quick career growth but also for the rapid training of new team members. When I began university, my boyfriend and I moved to Liberec, where I took on the management of two local Costa Coffee branches. In this role, I was responsible not only for the operation of the cafés but also for training and leading the team, which I enjoyed greatly. Balancing it with school was a bit dynamic, but nothing that couldn’t be managed.

What led you to work at Nordbeans?

After some time, I realized that a systematic approach also has its drawbacks, such as clearly set boundaries that limit further development and change. So, I started looking for a change and a place where I’d have more freedom to express myself, as well as a role that would allow me more time to finish university. I wanted to focus more on specialty coffee, and in Liberec, the clear choice was Sweet City café, where I started working part-time during the summer of 2020. What attracted me to Nordbeans was the support of a family-owned company and the passion with which everyone approaches their work.

How has your career developed since you started?

I started as a café server at Sweet City in June 2020. After a few shifts, and in agreement with Nordbeans management, I focused on opening the DOK café, which took place in August 2020. Since then, life at Nordbeans has been one big ride. I quickly returned to café management, but this time it was completely different. DOK was a newly established large café that needed structure, processes, and a clear concept.

During the Covid period, we faced many challenges, but thanks to the efforts of the entire team, we successfully navigated it. After two years of collaboration, I began distance studying for an MBA in Brno, which allowed me to expand my knowledge in management and leadership. When DOK celebrated its third anniversary, our efforts had materialized into a stable business that withstands change thanks to a strong team.

This created space for new activities and projects, leading to the opening of the new Nordbeans_Lázně café in 2023. The opening was very dynamic and swift. Currently, I work as the General Manager of Cafés and have completed my MBA studies with a focus on management and leadership.

What does your typical day at work look like?

My typical day is usually planned from morning until afternoon. I typically start my mornings with focused work, which includes working on projects and handling important emails. This time is crucial for me as it allows me to fully immerse myself in strategic tasks and planning.

After the morning phase, I move on to meetings at various cafés with the managers of each location. Together, we review and assess current plans, prepare for upcoming tasks, and address any issues that may arise. During these meetings, I provide advice, help resolve complications, and ensure everything runs smoothly and according to plan.

In the afternoon, I often have meetings with some of the Nordbeans management team. These sessions focus on coordination between departments, ensuring all parts of the company collaborate effectively. We discuss project progress, plan next steps, and tackle strategic matters.

I leave the rest of the day for handling tasks and planning. I use this time to focus on details, prepare documents, and ensure that all initiatives align with the company’s overall strategy. Each day is dynamic and brings new challenges, which continuously motivates and drives me forward.

How do you prefer to spend your day off?

I love spending my day off hiking in the mountains with our dog, Lucky. Being in nature helps me unwind from the daily work hustle. When we’re not out on walks, we often spend time in Liberec or near Prague with friends and family.