HVG economic newspaper recently published an interview with György Beck, SEED faculty member, former president of the John von Neumann Computer Society (NJSZT) and a seasoned executive in the IT and telecommunications sectors. In the discussion, he addressed key challenges and opportunities shaping Hungary’s digital landscape, including the risks of digital illiteracy, the role of leadership, and the country’s potential to strengthen its position in the global tech industry.

The interview was originally published by HVG.hu in Hungarian, which you can access here.

Addressing digital illiteracy

Beck highlighted that digital illiteracy remains a critical challenge in Hungary. While many associate digital skills with basic computer use, the real issue lies in understanding and leveraging digital tools effectively. Without significant improvements in digital education and skill development, a large portion of the population risks being left behind in an increasingly digital world.

György Beck, Faculty member of SEED Executive School and former president of the John von Neumann Computer Society (NJSZT)

The role of leadership education and mentorship

Beck stressed the importance of mentoring the next generation of IT and business leaders, ensuring that young professionals gain practical digital skills rather than just theoretical knowledge. As an experienced mentor, he sees first-hand how guidance from industry leaders can accelerate growth and innovation.

When asked what makes a good mentor, he emphasized that trust is the key in every mentoring relationship. He let the mentees to bring their own problems, but an ideal mentor should provide guidance based on experience and help to avoid typical traps in business and career. Beck also highlighted how leaders influence those around them, even beyond the workplace.

Attracting important foreign investments as a regional leader

Reflecting on his career, Beck shared that one of his greatest successes as CEO and country manager at Hungarian multinationals was when he succeeded to convince the international headquarters to bring important investments and jobs to Hungary. This is how, among others, Digital’s network software production, Compaq’s PC production, HP’s winchester and printer production and Vodafone’s first international service centre (Vodafone Shared Services Budapest Zrt.) were brought to Hungary, with 2000 new jobs. As a business leader in Hungary and Central and Eastern Europe, it is worth building an established strategy to attract foreign investment to create jobs.