Milica Čavić, Head of the Economics and Controlling Sector

Hi Milica, can you introduce yourself and your job in a few sentences?

My name is Milica Čavić, I have a master’s degree in economics, and I’ve been with NIS for 13 years. I’m currently the Head of the Economics and Controlling Sector. I would describe my everyday work as a set of financial and accounting controls, analyses and reporting aimed at achieving the best operational management.

Did your studies prepare you for the field you work in today?

Yes, absolutely. I graduated from the Faculty of Economics in Subotica, University of Novi Sad, specializing in accounting and auditing. Economics is a broad field, and even though we didn’t have practical work during our studies, the terminology and calculations were familiar to me. Naturally, I had to master the systems, software and reporting formats afterwards, but I believe that in large companies like NIS the most difficult and most important thing at the beginning is understanding the organizational hierarchy. Since the system is complex, once you learn the processes and responsibilities, everything becomes easier. And I can honestly say that this is not a one-year period – you need 2 to 3 years to fully understand the processes, and only then comes the best part, when you can truly reach your full capacity.

When did you first become interested in NIS and what was your first contact with the company?

I was still in my master’s studies. Although I already had a job in another company at the time, I applied for a three-month student internship at NIS. It was the first year that NIS introduced its youth employment program, which later became an annual practice – something I think is excellent. Many of my classmates applied, but after the first selection round and the tasks assigned by the department manager, six of us were selected for the internship. I decided to take a risk, left my permanent job and joined NIS. And here I am, 13 years later, still with the company.

Were you interested in this industry before joining NIS?

Not specifically in the oil industry. I would rather say that I knew which areas of economics I didn’t feel a connection with. Everything else was open for consideration, including the energy sector.

What would you say to someone in your field who is unsure about applying to NIS?

That after working at NIS, you will leave with extensive experience and knowledge – which is the most important thing.

If that same person told you they have an interview at NIS, what advice would you give them to help them succeed?

Be honest in your answers, and if you’re not certain about something, it’s always better to say “I don’t know”. In terms of personality, be yourself. You never know what the hiring manager is looking for – perhaps the exact traits you already have.

What were your first days at NIS like, and how did your career develop?

There was a lot of enthusiasm, nerves, excitement, hope and determination. I was welcomed by colleagues who were genuinely happy to see students and the fresh energy we brought. From an intern, I progressed to specialist, then senior specialist, and finally to the leadership position I hold today as Head of the Economics and Controlling Department, a role I’ve had for three years now. It required a lot of patience, effort, hard work, energy and determination.

And finally, what do you like most about your job?

The colleagues I work with, the fast pace, the unpredictable tasks, and the broad perspective on all process-related costs – from exploration to oil and gas production.