The good leader creates leaders, not followers

Introduce yourself with a few words..

My name is Kolyo Kolev and I am the director and founder of The Institute for the Preservation of Cultural and Historical Heritage – an organization with a public mission dedicated to the preservation, digitization, and promotion of Bulgarian culture, history, and spiritual values both in the country and among Bulgarian communities around the world.

Tell us what the philosophy and values of the company you represent at the moment are?

Our philosophy is based on the belief that cultural heritage is not just a part of the past, but an active resource for the future. We believe in education as a path to national awareness, in sustainability as a long-term strategy, and in innovation as a bridge between tradition and the new generation. At the center of everything are patriotism, honesty, responsibility, and the mission to educate through knowledge.

How long have you been developing your current company? What are the most valuable lessons that the events of this period have taught you?

I have been working purposefully on the development of the Institute for over 5 years, and its preparation and concept are the result of over 30 years of active professional and personal journey. The most valuable lesson: the cause requires strategy. Idealism is not enough – planning, sustainability, networks of like-minded individuals, and the ability to adapt are necessary.

If you personally had to write a job advertisement, how would you attract the attention of a future employee?

I would say: “Here you won’t just work – here you will build history.”
We offer not just a position, but a commitment to the mission. We expect initiative, creativity, and an attitude towards national identity. We provide freedom, trust, and space for expression.

What does your company do to organize a constructive and beneficial working environment for everyone? Do people in the team need to be friends?

We create a working culture where respect, professionalism, and open communication are paramount. It is not mandatory for people to be friends, but it is mandatory to respect each other and trust each other. Friendship is a bonus, but cooperation is the foundation.

What makes you enjoy going to work? How do you handle difficult and stressful moments?

The feeling that we are working not just for profit, but for a legacy. That the children who read our books will grow up with a stronger connection and love for Bulgaria. In times of stress – I resort to the principles of prioritization in perspective: today’s difficulty does not negate tomorrow’s value.

What work model does your company adhere to – office or remote? What do you think about the possibility of offering options for flexible working time?

We work in a hybrid model, tailored to the nature of tasks and the personal capacity of the team. Flexibility is not an advantage – it is a necessity in the modern world. We provide freedom within clearly structured goals and deadlines.

How do the ongoing technological changes globally affect your business?

They not only affect us – they dictate our approach. Our books use QR technologies, virtual resources, and interactive solutions. Technologies are an ally when they serve the content. We are not an analog cultural organization – we are digital patriots.

How important is hierarchy and what does it mean to you? What kind of communication do you advocate in your company?

Hierarchy is needed to have clarity in responsibilities, but it is not a means of domination. I support horizontal communication, where everyone can propose a solution, but also bears responsibility. A good leader creates leaders, not followers.

What is your career advice for all people building a strategy for their professional development?

Do not seek the easy path – seek the meaningful one. Choose a direction that will make you wake up in the morning with the feeling that it matters. And most importantly – be patient, but persistent. Success is not about climbing quickly, but having a solid foundation when you get there.