Technologies are neutral – they can launch you or crush you

Introduce yourself in a few sentences..
Hello, my name is Max Baklayan and I am the co-founder and CEO of Tavex Bulgaria — part of the international Tavex Group. The company is a leader in the trade of investment gold and currency in Central and Eastern Europe. In addition, we operate in Romania and Serbia. I define myself as a designer at heart and a logical systematist by mind, which allows me to create and structure sustainable businesses.

Tell us about the philosophy and values of the company you currently represent.
At the company we believe in transparency, good faith, and personal responsibility. We are an organization where "I don't know" is an acceptable answer, as long as it is accompanied by a desire to learn and grow. For us, a person's value is not measured only by their title or position, but by their influence, kindness, and vision. We believe in long-term greed – to give a lot and for a long time before asking for something in return. This builds lasting relationships, trust, and success.

How long have you been developing your current company? What are the most valuable lessons that the events during this period have taught you?
The company in Bulgaria started in 2009. The biggest lesson over these years is that success is built with the right people. I realized that I cannot be the best at everything, but I can create an environment where everyone shines in their strength. I learned not to be afraid to surround myself with smarter and more capable people than me. Self-awareness is liberating – when you realize that you don't know everything, you are ready to learn and lead by example.

If you personally had to write a job advertisement, how would you attract the attention of a future employee?
I would start with honesty. I wouldn't try to "sell" the position, but I would tell how we are as people, what the challenges and opportunities are. I would say:
"We are looking for a person who wants to grow, learn, contribute, and be part of something bigger than themselves. If you are looking for a place where your word matters, where effort is valued, and where chances are given – our company might be your place."

What does your company do to organize a constructive and beneficial working environment for everyone? Should people in the team be friends?
The working environment in the company is built on trust, personal responsibility, and openness. We have a culture where everyone's opinion is valued.
Should people be friends? Yes and no.
Yes – because we spend a huge part of our lives together. In the company we have dozens of marriages and children born from collegial relationships.
No – if friendship interferes with objectivity, professionalism, and fairness. The balance between humanity and professionalism is key.

What makes you enjoy going to work? How do you deal with difficult and stressful moments?
Pleasure comes with action. The more you work, the more you succeed, and the more it seems that "luck" is on your side.
I deal with difficulties by facing them. I don't delay them. I listen to my team, seek advice, look for solutions.
I believe that a leader is one who goes through the storm first and shows the way. And when you believe in your mission, difficulties are just part of the journey.

What work model does your company adhere to – office or remote? What do you think about the possibility of offering flexible working hours?
We are an office-oriented company. We believe in the power of presence, personal communication, and synergy among people in one room.
Still, we provide flexibility where it is possible and logical.
Flexible working hours are not an end in themselves, but a tool. If it leads to better results and happier people – we use it. We believe in responsibility, not control.

How do the continuous technological changes globally affect your business?
Technologies are neutral – they can launch you or crush you.
Our philosophy is to use new technologies as a tool to improve customer experience and efficiency.
Although we work in a conservative industry – gold and currency – we are not static.
We invest in automation, training, and digitalization, but always with a human center at the core.

How important is hierarchy and what does it mean to you? What kind of communication do you advocate in your company?
Hierarchy exists, but not to burden, but to structure responsibilities. For us, it is not a barrier, but a skeleton.
Open communication is part of the DNA of the company – anyone can talk to anyone.
I believe in leadership by example, not by orders. There is no "I said, so it will be" – there is "let's discuss and find the best solution".

Career advice for all people building a strategy for their professional development:
Cultivate the good person in you as you grow.
With climbing the ladder comes the risk of losing yourself in ego, status, and money. But remember – money does not change us, it only amplifies what we already are.
Do not be afraid to surround yourself with those smarter than you.
Give value before you ask.
And do not rush – success is like a walnut tree: it grows slowly but bears exceptional fruit.