Interview with Matjaž Centrih – new managing director of Datalab SI
As of 1 May 2025, Matjaž Centrih has taken over the management of Datalab SI. Drawing on his extensive experience gained during his lengthy career in the IT industry, he is embarking on a new path in the capital. We talked to him about his career path, his vision for Datalab SI, as well as his personal motivation and life principles.
Matjaž, can you briefly describe your professional background?
As a young man, I decided to attend a computer science high school, as I did not want to spend my entire life behind a desk. Later, I realized that I did not desire to be a pure programmer, mainly due to my interest in more dynamic work, so I completed my studies at the Faculty of Economics. My career began in a medium-sized IT company. I started out in this family business as a student and gained my first experience there, ultimately staying for 25 years. During this time, I learned about all the services, special features, and work processes of an IT company. The company grew, and so did I. My path took me from a development programmer to user support and sales manager, all the way to executive director. In my last years of managing the company, I faced the advantages and challenges of leadership while always remaining a team player and spiritual leader.
What led you into managing Datalab SI?
I reached a point where I needed to take a leap forward – to transition from family to corporate thinking. I wanted to move away from micromanagement, which prompted me to seek a new challenge. On the threshold of the second half of my life, I sought a company that would value my experience and knowledge. Ljubljana appealed to me for its numerous opportunities and clients, and I also see working here as a chance for personal growth.
What personally motivates you the most working in the IT industry?
The IT industry is something that comes naturally to me, as I grew up in it and have experienced all levels of its operations. What motivates me most is working with people and clients and facing new challenges every day. I am aware that I don’t know everything, but I always strive to learn new things.
What is your vision for Datalab SI for the coming year?
First, I want to get to know the team well so that we can work as a coordinated team and achieve even better results together. Regardless of the challenges and market conditions, I want Datalab and the PANTHEON program to remain the undisputed leader in the region. I will leverage my knowledge and experience to support the team so that we can work together to strengthen client trust.
How do you intend to further improve support for PANTHEON users?
I advocate the use of modern and soft skills at work. Precision and consistency are key – whatever we do, we should do it well so that we don’t have to fix it later. The principle I follow is: “Do everything you do to the best of your ability, even if no one is watching.” I teach this to my children too – you get back as much energy as you put in.
How do you aim to encourage cooperation and innovation among employees?
Education is key – educated people can contribute more to the community. Communication is often a challenge in the IT industry, as we tend to be introverted and rely on IT tools. We need to raise the level of communication so that we can share best practices with our clients. In addition, I am committed to ensuring that our technological tools are always cutting-edge and in sync with the times.
What would you like to change or improve about the working environment at Datalab?
I am bothered by deviations from the rules. I intend to review existing processes, optimize them, and establish clear rules and deadlines so that everyone on the team knows where we are, where we are going, and when we will get there. It is important that the goals are as clear to me as they are to the employees and their superiors.
Do you happen to have a personal motto or a guiding principle that you follow in your work?
‘We the people are the business.” Successful business is based on interpersonal relationships – the more we invest in it, the more successful it will be.
Do you see any new business opportunities?
Digitization is crucial. Although there is a lot of talk about Industry 4.0, many companies still operate on paper. This is a great opportunity to offer them a competitive advantage through advanced digitization, online and mobile solutions, as well as integration into information systems.
What event are you particularly looking forward to?
Sailing! It’s a sport that I’ve grown to appreciate more and more over the years. I’m a member of a sailing club, and sailing gives me the chance to focus on one thing, clear my mind, and just enjoy nature. Much like in business, teamwork and knowing your crew well are really important when you’re out on a boat.
How would you describe your leadership style in three words?
Hard work, courage, and positive energy.
Which book, film, or person has inspired you the most in your life?
I am inspired by leaders who share their experiences, best practices, and ideas that we can apply in our environment. I also look up to ordinary people who leave a significant mark through their dedication and sincerity.
Matjaž Centrih and his experience and vision breathe new life into Datalab SI. With a focus on cooperation, innovation, and digitization, the company is ready to tackle new challenges under his leadership.
