From RIT Croatia to L’Oréal: The inspiring journey of alumnus Niko Katušić
As a Key Account Manager at L’Oréal and Vice President of the RIT Croatia Alumni Association, Niko Katušić’s professional journey is a testament to the power of education, adaptability, and seizing opportunities. A graduate of RIT Croatia’s Hospitality and Tourism Management program in 2019, Niko’s story connects the unique culture of Dubrovnik, the dynamic environment of RIT Croatia, and his commitment to lifelong learning.
Why RIT Croatia? Finding the Perfect Fit
Growing up in Dubrovnik, Niko was surrounded by a vibrant tourism industry that sparked his interest in hospitality and business. Initially torn between pursuing business or law, his career trajectory took shape after attending RIT Croatia’s Career Education Day (CED).
“Walking into that large meeting hall filled with energy and ambition was a game-changer for me,” Niko recalls. “It wasn’t just a college—it was a door to the business world.” The dual-degree program, offering an American education in Croatia, and the proximity to his hometown made RIT Croatia the perfect choice.
Choosing to stay in Dubrovnik instead of moving to Zagreb allowed Niko to immerse himself in a field that aligned perfectly with the city’s character. “Dubrovnik is a global tourism stage,” he says. “Being surrounded by that dynamic environment gave me a deep appreciation for hospitality and creating memorable experiences for others.”
Memories of Dubrovnik Campus Life
Studying at RIT Croatia’s Dubrovnik campus brought unique experiences that extended beyond academics. The campus, located a short walk from Dubrovnik’s historic Old City, offered students an inspiring blend of tradition and innovation.
“Between classes, spending breaks with friends at Stradun and enjoying coffee was an unbeatable experience,” Niko remembers. But it wasn’t just the picturesque setting that stood out. “The family-like atmosphere on campus made all the difference. Professors weren’t just educators—they were mentors who genuinely cared about our success.”
The practical focus of RIT Croatia’s education, particularly the co-op program, allowed Niko to gain real-world experience. Summer internships during Dubrovnik’s busy tourist season exposed him to the vibrancy of hospitality and the importance of adaptability and cultural sensitivity—skills that have been invaluable in his career.
Building a Career at L’Oréal
Niko’s career journey reflects his drive and ability to adapt to new challenges. Before graduating, he became a Station Manager at Enterprise Rent-A-Car, managing a team of 18 employees and a fleet of over 1,200 vehicles—a formative experience in leadership and operations.
From there, he joined Procter & Gamble, where he managed retail accounts before transitioning into brand and marketing management. It was a chance meeting with an RIT Croatia alumna at Dubrovnik Airport that led to his current role at L’Oréal, proving the power of networking and the strength of the RIT alumni community.
Now, as a Key Account Manager, Niko manages one of L’Oréal’s largest accounts, balancing the interests of the company, clients, and consumers. “It’s like being the conductor of an orchestra,” he explains. “You’re constantly juggling responsibilities, making decisions, and building relationships. My education in hospitality and service management gave me the empathy, adaptability, and problem-solving mindset to excel in this role.”
Master’s Degree: A Game Changer
After completing his undergraduate degree, Niko pursued a Master of Science degree in Service, Leadership, and Innovation from RIT, delivered at the Zagreb campus. The program sharpened his skills in research, data-driven decision-making, and active listening.
“Active listening transformed how I approach client relationships and team dynamics,” Niko notes. “By truly paying attention, I can uncover motivations, build trust, and navigate negotiations with greater precision.”
The program also emphasized adaptability and innovative thinking—qualities that Niko applies daily in his role at L’Oréal. “The ability to lead by example and embrace continuous improvement has made me a more effective professional and prepared me for future leadership roles.”
Giving Back to the Alumni Community
As Vice President of the RIT Croatia Alumni Association, Niko is passionate about fostering connections among alumni. “The Alumni Association is like LinkedIn in real life,” he says. “It’s a community where a simple ‘hello’ can lead to meaningful opportunities.”
Balancing his professional role with his alumni commitments requires careful time management, but Niko finds the experience deeply rewarding. “Meeting fellow alumni and contributing to their success inspires me and often gives me new ideas to apply in my professional life.”
Golf and Sales: Lessons in Patience and Strategy
An avid golfer, Niko sees parallels between his favorite sport and his career. “Golf teaches patience, strategy, and adaptability,” he explains. “Every swing is an opportunity to learn and adjust, just like every interaction in sales or leadership.”
Both golf and sales require focus, discipline, and the ability to remain calm under pressure—qualities central to Niko’s success.
Advice for Aspiring Leaders
For current and prospective RIT Croatia students, Niko shares seven key lessons:
- Stay Curious: Continuously develop your skills through education, internships, and online platforms.
- Master Communication: Public speaking, active listening, and negotiation are essential for success.
- Network Effectively: Build meaningful relationships with classmates, professors, and alumni.
- Embrace Challenges: Learn from setbacks and use them as opportunities for growth.
- Be Adaptable: The ability to pivot in response to changing circumstances is invaluable.
- Focus on Long-Term Goals: Success isn’t about short-term wins but building trust and creating value.
- Enjoy the Journey: “It’s not about the destination—it’s about the journey,” Niko emphasizes.