In celebration of International Women’s Day on March 8, women@DUIHK and DialogUngarn Nonprofit Kft. organized the third Female Business Leader Conference in Budapest, made possible with the support of UniCredit Bank Hungary Zrt. and the Verband der Unternehmerinnen (VdU). More than 135 managers discussed how cooperation between men and women, young and old and people and technology can make companies and organizations stronger and more successful under the motto “Strong Together: Working Together Successfully in Business.” In his keynote speech and subsequent conversation with Marie-Theres Thiell, István Szászi, the head of the Bosch Group in Hungary and the Adriatic Region, emphasized that greater participation of women in business processes and decisions is not only fair but is also in the interest of all companies. He also advised caution when dealing with the generational issue, advising against stereotypes. It is essential to consider each individual’s own merits.
In the first panel, moderated by Hedvig Szakács (SZPH Consulting), Gabriella Heiszler (Spar Magyarország), Kirsten Schoder-Steinmueller (Schoder and also a VP of the DIHK), Krisztián Góbor (SIIX Hungary) and Attila Somogyi (Kion Group) expressed the view that managers in particular needed to support cooperation. It is vital for companies to embrace further digitalization to ensure economic sustainability in the long term. Providing additional training and effective communication channels is essential in ensuring employees can keep pace with the constant technological advances. Demographic change necessitates effective collaboration between multiple generations in the workforce. Employees from different generations are most effective when their strengths and affinities are utilized.
The second panel, moderated by Barbara Zollmann, MD of the DUIHK, focused on how organizations can promote collaboration. Pamela Stenzel, co-chair of the International Commission of the VdU, reported on projects such as “She Succeeds” on business succession or projects with female entrepreneur networks in Africa. Julia Arnold, head of Business Women IHK and Network Communication DIHK, gave the example of the Business Women IHK, which has already founded 40 women’s entrepreneur networks across Germany. László Kónya of Deutsche Telekom IT Solutions Hungary spoke about close cooperation with schools to promote early career choices. Rally driver Dorka Zagyva talked about how her father’s profession had allowed her to learn about it and become a role model.
Belgabiz hosted a networking event at MaMaison Hotel Andrássy on March 13. Chief Economist at K&H Bank Dávid Németh delivered sharp insights into Hungary’s economic outlook. From the German elections to Trump’s return, inflation trends, and geopolitical shifts, we explored the key forces shaping 2025. Guests included Belgium Ambassador Jeroen Vergeylen and from K&H Bank, CEO Peter Roebben and Tibor Bodor, head of the corporate division. Special thanks to Belga Sörmester for providing authentic Belgian beer for the networking.
The CCIU thanks everyone who made the Venice Grand Ball an extraordinary and unforgettable evening on March 1. Among the more than 180 guests were the Italian Ambassador to Hungary Jacoangeli Manuel, numerous VIPs and senior executives from Italy and Hungary. Opened by the CCIU president Bernardino Pusceddu, the evening celebrated the excellence of “Made in Italy,” showcasing Italian artistic heritage and craftsmanship. Guests embarked on a cultural journey through an art exhibition, a contemporary sculpture display, and a fashion show. A new air connection between Budapest and Venice, strengthening ties between the two cities, was also celebrated. The gala dinner offered a refined culinary experience, accompanied by wines provided by the Consorzio di Tutela Prosecco DOC Valdobbiadene Patrimonio Unesco. Live performances enriched the evening, including a show by Italian soul artist Davide Shorty, a soprano-tenor duet by Laura Migliaccio and Giuseppe Gambi, and live music.
Save the date for the annual Dutcham Gala Dinner on Wednesday, May 28, from 6 p.m. Similar to past years, the event will be a seated dinner in casual style with Dutch, Indonesian, and Caribbean culinary inspirations.
The CCCH will host its 12th annual Canadian BBQ on June 4. This exclusive event will bring together prominent business leaders, diplomats, and government representatives for an evening of exceptional food, networking, and entertainment. Attendees will enjoy a signature Canadian culinary experience featuring bison, wild-caught salmon, unlimited drinks, a cocktail bar, and indulgent chocolate and ice cream tastings. At the same time, jazz music will set the atmosphere. With approximately 100 guests expected, the event is a premier networking platform for professionals across various industries. Whether you’re looking to expand your business network or simply indulge in a unique fusion of Canadian cuisine and Hungarian hospitality for an unforgettable evening of fine dining and entertainment, this is an event you won’t want to miss. • When: Wednesday, June 4, 6-10 p.m. • Where: Öbölház, Kopaszi-gát 2, Budapest 1117 • Fee: Early bird tickets are available until April 30: Members HUF 46,900 plus VAT; non-members HUF 56,900 plus VAT.
It’s time to offer some care management and boost team spirit, and all with an ESG impact reducing CO2 emissions. Join the French chamber’s international #ChallengeCCIFI 2025: running, walking, and cycling in teams of five. This year, Yogist wellness at work with invigorating indoor active breaks have been added to the mix. Twenty-five percent of fees support the Solar Impulse Foundation. Amazing prizes are on offer from EuropaDesign and HungariaMed-M. • When: March 31-April 27. • Where: your location in Hungary • Fee: (per team of five): Members EUR 350 plus VAT; non-members EUR 450 plus VAT.
The Embassy of Switzerland in Budapest, in cooperation with the Budapest City Administration, Swisscham, the Budapest Global Association and other partners, is proud to announce the launch of the “Switzerland in Budapest 2025” program. This project aims to highlight the deep historical, cultural, and economic ties between Switzerland and Hungary by showcasing the many Swiss traces that can be discovered in Budapest. The series of events started in March with a literature event, various cultural happenings, film screenings, an art exhibition, and music performances. Later this spring, several guided walking tours will allow participants to explore cultural, economic and historic locations in Budapest with a Swiss touch. Participants in the city rally “Swiss Traces in Budapest” will even have the chance to win a trip to Switzerland. As part of the “Switzerland in Your School” initiative, the Swiss Ambassador will visit schools to engage with Hungarian students on Switzerland’s political system, EU relations and historical connections with Hungary. This year also marks the 30th anniversary of Swisscham, commemorating the longstanding Swiss business presence in Budapest. The chamber will celebrate this anniversary through a series of thematic events all year, not least a gala dinner on May 15 and a Swiss-Hungarian Business Forum in the fall. A highlight of the “Switzerland in Budapest 2025” program will be a “Swiss Picnic” in mid-June in the garden of the Embassy of Switzerland. It will offer Budapesters a chance to experience a taste of Swiss cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere. The event will be open to the public, but prior registration will be required.
This article was first published in the Budapest Business Journal print issue of March 21, 2025.
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