Name: Veronika Spanarova
Position: Managing Director, Citi Country Officer and Banking Head for Hungary
Candidate Bio & Experience
Since assuming her role in Hungary in 2020, Veronika has been leading the Citi businesses - Corporate, Public Sector, Global Network and Commercial Banking - while upholding the highest standards of soundness across the Bank and Citi Solutions Center.
Prior to her appointment to Hungary, she spent four years as Citi Country Head Slovakia, where she was also the Corporate Banking Head.
Veronika started her career with Citi 29 years ago. Since then, she has held various senior positions in the fields of Transaction Services, Corporate and Retail Banking in the Czech Republic, Brazil and Slovakia.
She holds a Master’s degree in Economics from Charles University in Prague, Faculty of Social Sciences.
Veronika won the Expat CEO of the Year Award by BBJ in 2023. She is Member at Large of the Board of Directors of AmCham Hungary and Deputy Chair of the Supervisory Board of the Hungarian Banking Association.
Motivation
Why do you think membership in the American Chamber of Commerce is important for businesses operating in Hungary?
American Chamber of Commerce in Hungary is a key business organization, representing the voice and interests of local and international business community. Over its 35 years of existence, it has proven track record of effective advocacy, influence, connectivity and fostering cooperative business climate. It serves as a crucial platform for its members, leading impactful dialogue between public and private sector stakeholders, as well as among private sector companies, united through shared business practices and values.
What motivates you to be an AmCham Board Member/Supervisory Board Member?
I have worked for Citi for 29 years across five countries, worked and lived in Hungary for 4.5 years. I have had the privilege of serving on the AmCham Board for the last two years. Citi has a long-standing presence in Hungary, with 3,000+ colleagues across multiple professions and areas. With this knowledge and experience, I would like to continue dedicating my time and energy to serve Hungarian business community on the board.
Why do you feel you are qualified? What skills do you bring to the position?
I bring a strong business background from Citi across Europe and Latin America. Through Citi’s global network, my personal experience, and my 4+ years in Hungary, I can bring valuable global insights and best practices that are applicable and useful for the Hungarian business community. Currently, I have also held lectures for university students in Hungary to share my knowledge, as I believe it is essential to invest in future generations and support practical, foundation-based education, which is vital for development and competitiveness. This experience helps me understand the mindset of younger generation, fosters flexibility, and encourages out-of-the box thinking, allowing me to adapt my approach to meet different needs.
I excel in leading diverse teams, connecting with partners and stakeholders in both public and private sectors, and achieving results through effective, fact-based dialogue. I am motivated, enthusiastic, and eager to involve all relevant partners in every dialogue to achieve the results.
How have you been active in AmCham over the course of the last two years?
I trust that I have been an engaged Board Member, actively participating in shaping AmCham’s strategy and contributing to key topics. I have engaged in important dialogues on topics related to the business environment, competitiveness, international investments in Hungary, promoting and supporting Hungarian companies in their international expansions, digitalization and diversity and inclusion.
Through my personal involvement and with the support of Citi, I have presented and shared my knowledge in the above areas, as well as invited Citi experts from around the world to share their expertise. Additionally, I have focused on providing connectivity among AmCham members which I have strived to achieve by facilitating ongoing dialogue on discussion platforms and events led by AmCham. It would be my pleasure and honour to continue serving on the AmCham Board and if given the support, to step up to the role of AmCham Vice President.