"We see ourselves as influencers"

Aleksandar Đikanović, Project Manager Xella Serbia

Aleksandar, what is the most important task in your job as a project manager?

We see ourselves as influencers. Together with my teammates, I provide the best solution for architectural projects, such as the Belgrade Waterfront in the capital of Serbia. In this case, we act as a kind of mediator between what the investors want and what the architects can deliver.

How does that work in practice?

For example, we help in the discussion about the facade walls. In Serbia, the classic way is a brick wall, 25 centimeters thick. Thermal conductivity is a huge topic here, so we can offer them with our products different kinds of solutions. We also know about the slower installation conditions and the higher price. That is why we talk about choosing monolithic walls in different sizes, which can even speed up the whole project.

Usually the investors like the faster solution better because it's going to be sold sooner. It is always difficult to start these conversations and get into these circles of investors and architects, but if the project is successful with our advice, the investors are interested in working together on other projects.

What convinced them in the case of the Belgrade Waterfront project?

Both the investor and the main contractor were enthusiastic about our Multipor solutions because, in addition to its excellent thermal insulation, it is also fire-resistant and easy to install. YTONG is popular for its good sound insulation between apartments and its light weight. It can be cut to any size and there is less waste. 15 projects have already been realized. Almost as many are already in the pipeline.

What made you decide to join Xella 14 years ago instead of continuing to work as an architect?

When the big economic crisis started in 2010, there were very few jobs for me. So I contacted Xella because they were looking for project managers with architectural experience. At first, I thought: this is not for me. But I wanted to give it a try, and after a while I couldn't imagine sitting in front of a screen all day anymore. I like the many facets of my job and the variety it brings.

Where do you spend your day?

On construction sites! With architects and investors. Every day I can share my knowledge in detail, more than any architect in the design office - so I can still be an architect. I see the projects develop and the results. It's very refreshing. I love this kind of work!

Why did you choose to study architecture?

I found out that I wanted to be an architect very early in my life, in fact, I was three years old. I always loved drawing, and I used to watch a special educational TV program for children in the morning. There was a famous Serbian architect. He talked about architecture in Italy, France, Germany and Japan. I loved the show and said: I want to be an architect. And after that, many years ago, this famous architect was my professor, you could say my idol in adulthood. It was the best for me.

Did you always live in Belgrade?

I come from a small town in Serbia. It's called Bor, one of the most famous copper mining towns in Europe. But there was no opportunity for a full-fledged architect. So I went to work in other cities and countries, but Belgrade was always my station to come back to. Now I have my sister and her family here and my friends.

How do you relax in your free time?

I like to spend time in nature, cycling and hiking. The first day this year when it was hot enough, I went by bike to Lake Sava, 15 or 20 kilometers from here. I'm not the kind of guy who sits on the couch. I'm outside all the time.

How do you see the value of safety in your day-to-day work?

In our industry, it is important to constantly remind ourselves that the places we work  are unique. We move around construction sites, while massive crane structures operate above our heads. Therefore, it is essential to always be safe, vigilant and aware of our surroundings.

This is also true for road traffic. I myself drive around 40,000 kilometers every year. In the past, there were times when I drove 500 kilometers in one day and returned after two or three sessions. Today, however, I make sure to rest before driving and wait until I feel safe enough to sit behind the wheel with concentration and responsibility.