The Croatian Chamber of Economy
TANJA KOVAČ, MSc
Helping Small Businesses & Startups Grow Through Creative, Strategic Marketing
A creative marketing strategist with over 12 years of experience, I specialize in helping small businesses and startups transform ideas into impactful brands. Over the past 4 years, independent projects have focused on blending creativity with data-driven strategies to support business growth, enhance visibility, and foster meaningful audience connections. Whether launching a new venture or scaling an existing one, the goal is to deliver innovative and creative marketing solutions that drive real results and create a competitive edge.
As a consultant, the approach involves close collaboration with teams to address unique business challenges and develop strategies that fuel growth. By merging creativity with a strong analytical mindset, marketing, sales, and business development efforts align seamlessly to achieve measurable success.
I’m a creative thinker with an analytical mindset and over 12 years of experience in marketing and business development. I specialize in creating innovative creative marketing strategies that connect brands with their audiences, particularly for small businesses, startups, and enterprise IT products in SaaS, fintech, AI, and e-commerce.
For the last 4 years, I’ve worked independently, helping companies navigate the dynamic and ever-changing markets of SaaS, fintech, and e-commerce. My broad career experience includes roles as a marketing manager, consultant, and project manager, blending creativity, analytics, and business development to drive impactful growth.
With a deep understanding of global markets (Balkans, DACH, EMEA, and the USA), I can quickly identify opportunities and tailor strategies to fit specific market needs. I focus on aligning marketing, sales, and business development functions to help businesses create synergies that fuel growth and measurable results.
Collaboration is at the core of my work. I thrive on building positive, collaborative relationships with teams and clients, knowing that success is often the result of teamwork. Whether executing strategic campaigns or managing complex projects, I approach each challenge with a focus on clear, actionable steps that lead to meaningful outcomes.
I bring a wealth of experience in B2B marketing and business development, with a strong focus on SaaS and fintech. From creating comprehensive marketing strategies to leading SEO, SEM, and social media campaigns, I use tools like Ahrefs, SEMrush, and HubSpot to boost performance and user engagement. My hands-on expertise extends to web development (WordPress, Shopify), content creation (Adobe Creative Suite, Canva), and CRM/marketing automation, enabling businesses to generate leads and enhance customer relationships.
My project management and strategic planning skills ensure alignment across teams and stakeholders, while my Google certifications (Analytics, Ads, Tag Manager) ensure data-driven decision-making and effective campaign measurement. I’m also deeply familiar with consumer psychology and branding, bringing a thoughtful, research-backed approach to crafting brand narratives that resonate.
My Education
Licensed Real Estate Agent (2023)
After passing the Real Estate Agent exam under the supervision of the Croatian Chamber of Commerce, I obtained an official license and developed specialized skills in real estate brokerage and management. My expertise encompasses key areas such as corporate law, property valuation, construction processes, property rights, land registry, taxation, and financial operations. Additionally, I am trained in real estate marketing, anti-money laundering procedures, and spatial planning. These skills enable me to offer expert advice and comprehensive support throughout the real estate transaction process.
Digital Marketing / Online Advertising Specialist (2019)
Algebra University College
As a Digital Marketing/Online Advertising Specialist from Algebra University, I have gained expertise in SEO, SEM, Google AdWords, Google Analytics, and social media advertising. I specialize in managing and optimizing digital campaigns, utilizing data-driven insights to enhance ROI and developing strategic approaches to online marketing. My skills encompass content marketing, social media strategy, and performance analysis, enabling me to execute targeted online advertising that maximizes reach and effectiveness.
Master of Science in Graphic Technology (2013-2016)
The Faculty of Graphic Arts of the University of Zagreb
I hold a Master of Science in Graphic Technology (mag. ing. techn. graph.) from the University of Zagreb, Faculty of Graphic Arts (2013-2016). My expertise spans intermedia, multimedia, graphic and visual design, printing technology, and multimedia communications. Key competencies include creating ideal solutions for visual identity, conceptualizing graphic communications, managing and designing multimedia and printing systems, and overseeing projects related to packaging, publishing, and graphic management. This education has equipped me with the skills to execute and manage comprehensive graphic and multimedia projects effectively.
Bachelor of Engineering in IT Technologies (2010-2013)
University of Applied Sciences Zagreb
I hold a Bachelor of Engineering in IT Technologies (bacc. ing. techn. inf.) from the Zagreb University of Applied Sciences (2010-2013). My focus areas included e-commerce, e-business security, IT system security, and the performance management of online businesses. I developed skills in creating and managing virtual teams, organizing and managing email operations, and monitoring the quality of electronic business services. This education has provided me with a solid foundation in both the technical and managerial aspects of e-commerce and IT operations.
Where I’ve Worked
Marketing Consultant (2023-today), Co-Owner
Glassnegg Development do.o.o, Zagreb, Croatia
Specialize in creative and strategic marketing for small businesses and startups. Provide comprehensive marketing services to enhance brand visibility and drive growth. Offer strategic guidance in digital marketing, including SEO, content creation, social media management, and advertising campaigns. Develop tailored marketing strategies for SaaS, fintech, e-commerce, and B2B sectors to connect businesses with their target audience. Implement data-driven approaches to optimize customer journeys, boost lead generation, and increase sales. Focus on fostering collaboration between marketing, sales, and business development teams to create synergies that fuel measurable success. Additionally, offer brainstorming sessions through crnaovcaa.com, providing entrepreneurs and senior solopreneurs with fresh perspectives and actionable steps to overcome challenges and align marketing strategies with business goals.
Marketing Consultant (2021-today), Owner
Tanja Kovac e.U., Graz, Austria
I utilize creativity and strategic thinking to enhance brand strength and drive growth for companies and startups. I lead marketing strategies and digital initiatives, including market research, product marketing, graphic design, video editing, and event management for global trade shows. Additionally, I manage social media, PR relationships, white papers, and success stories. I oversee team operations to ensure seamless integration between sales and technical departments.
My responsibilities also include handling web and CRM administration, SEO (onsite, offsite, blogging), and e-commerce processes using WordPress and Shopify. I conduct e-commerce studies, manage advertising campaigns across social media, Google, and LinkedIn, and work to advance lead generation and expand sales networks.
Projekt Manager & Consultant (2023-2024), Part-time
Essentio GmbH, Kalsdorf bei Graz, Austria
As a project manager and consultant with a strong background in strategic marketing and business growth, I have gained experience in developing and implementing innovative strategies, including creating marketing plans for new SaaS products and leading market research projects. I am adept at handling various tasks such as graphic design, video editing, and web development. As the founder of a strategic marketing startup, I utilized my extensive knowledge of startup ecosystems to provide clients with long-term strategic consulting.
Contract Marketing Manager (2022-2024), as a Freelancer
Blacksharkai GmbH, Graz, Austria
As a marketing manager, I developed and implemented strategic marketing plans to enhance brand awareness, customer acquisition, and revenue growth. I led multichannel campaigns, supervised content creation, and managed graphic design and event logistics, including preparations for multiple global trade shows. Additionally, I handled website updates, budget oversight, and performance analysis to optimize marketing efforts.
I collaborated with cross-functional teams to ensure alignment with company goals and strengthen brand presence. I also implemented lead generation tactics and tracked current trends to integrate innovative solutions.
Regional Marketing Manager (2019-2022), Full-time, Freelancing
CADCAM Group d.o.o., Zagreb, Croatia
At CADCAM Group, I led marketing strategies and digital initiatives across Croatia, Slovenia, Serbia, and Bosnia and Herzegovina. I developed and executed campaigns based on market analysis and brand design, managing SEO, social media, Google campaigns, and WordPress projects. I oversaw the development of a new corporate website and coordinated a team of four marketing managers.
I also implemented process improvements, managed digital marketing efforts, and handled print ads, newsletters, PR campaigns, and large international trade shows. Additionally, I executed employer branding projects to enhance the company’s reputation and attract top talent.
Account Manager (2017-2019), Full-time
Red agencija, FHR d.o.o., Zagreb, Croatia
As an account manager, I managed clients across various industries, including fashion, beauty, cosmetics, high-tech, and banking. I organized major events such as fashion shows, the largest automotive exhibition, and numerous smaller brand events. I also led the organization of an Advent location in Zagreb over several years, contributing to Zagreb being named the best Christmas market in Europe.
My responsibilities included client communication, budgeting, project management, and the creation of promotional materials to ensure successful event execution and strong client relationships.
Guiding Your Digital Growth
My mission is to support you through every marketing challenge, helping you navigate the digital world and take your business to new heights.
- Data-Driven Decisions: Making informed strategies based on solid analytics.
- Simple Solutions: Providing easy-to-understand options that maintain high quality.
- Pragmatic Approach: Combining practicality with a deep understanding of your needs.
- Professionalism with a Creative Touch: Delivering top-notch service infused with fun and creativity.
