Bohdan Yatsykovskyy, assistant to the Chairman of the Board JSCB TAS-Komertzbank, Ukraine

Bohdan Yatsykovskyy is assistant to the Chairman of the Board JSCB “TAS-Komertzbank”, a subsidiary of Swedbank. Bohdan is a member of a team supporting the Chairman and helps ensure his day runs smoothly.

Bohdan has also helped coordinate the process of TAS –Komertzbank’s integration into the Swedbank group.

Bohdan, would you tell us a little about your education?
After leaving school, I entered Lviv National University (Faculty of International Relations) and graduated with a master's degree in international economy. I have to admit this was insufficient to be able to pursue a successful career in Ternopil or even in Lviv.

What was your first job experience?
After graduating from university, I faced a very burning problem – employment. So I returned to my native region, to Ternopil, where I managed to get a job. I was very lucky to become a state official. I worked at the Ternopil Regional Council, but soon realized the job had little to do with my training. I decided to look for a job requiring my skills in international economy and Kiev seemed like the best place.

How did you find out about this job?
I saw an advertisement and called. I was invited for an interview, came here, had an interview with Mr. Tigipko and was approved.

Do you like working at TAS-Komerzbank?
Yes, of course. TAS-Komerzbank is a team of professionals. I also like strong personalities. Sergiy Tigipko is not only Chairman of Board, he is also a leader and a charismatic one at that.

What kind of knowledge have you gained?
No management book could provide the experience I am gaining at TAS, especially from Mr. Tigipko. Not only am I gaining knowledge, the job is also a kind of management training. I have to admit that my slogan is “to study, study, study for my whole life”. At the moment, I’m participating in the program called Gold Pipeline (Staff Reserve), which aims to recruit efficient managers from among the bank’s employees. My goal is not only to become a director but also to become an efficient manager.

How many languages do you know?
Ukrainian is my mother tongue. I speak Ukrainian on the job and at home. Some people don’t like word “patriot”, but I’d like to say that I am one. I like Ukraine. I also speak fluent Swedish, English and, of course, Russian.

What has been the most important event in your life?
My guess is that this awaits me in the future. But working at an international bank, especially taking into account the fact that Swedbank has almost 200 years of history is a great honour and opportunity for me.

Do you have any time for your personal life?
Everything is OK with that. It's important to combine everything – work, leisure, sports, studying and feelings. That’s life. To live doesn’t only mean working but also having friends, playing football, etc.

Where do you live in Kiev?
Svyatoshyn. A very beautiful place.

Do you miss your home region?
Yes, of course. It’s my history. My parents and friends are there. Part of my heart will always be there.

What are you plans for the future?
To realize all of my dreams. Personally, I prioritize ethics and principles in all situations.

Name: Bohdan Yatsykovskyy
Age: 23
Birthplace: Zbarazh, Ternopil region, Ukraine
Position: Assistant to the Chairman of the Board of JSCB “TAS-Komertzbank”
Lives: Kyiv, Svyatoshyn
Education: A master's degree international economy
Most recent book read: “The Count of Monte Cristo” by Dumas
Cultural shock: Ukraine and Poland winning the right to organize the European football championship in 2012.
Favourite film: “Ivan Vasilievich: Back to the Future” (by Bulgakov)