In this month's section "Leader Profile," where we delve into the personalities of VILNIUS TECH administrative units and centres, exploring their leadership principles and work dynamics, we had a conversation with the Head of the Centre for civil engineering sciences, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sarunas Skuodis.

Definition. What three words do you associate with the definition of a good leader?

It's a tough question, but I believe these associations fit well: honesty, firmness and fairness.

Values. What is important to you as a leader? What values and principles do you follow?

It's crucial for work to be engaging. This provides motivation to perform tasks well. Additionally, it's important that all colleagues are happy while working. An unhappy person directs their energy elsewhere, not towards work.

Strengths. What makes a team strong? What qualities should people have to successfully achieve the set goals together?

A strong team is the one that recognises its strengths and weaknesses, as well as its members' preferences regarding different tasks. When everyone knows each other well, it's possible to set goals, deadlines, and other objectives successfully.

Team. How do you motivate your team? Do you have unique traditions or rituals?

Currently, all motivational efforts are focused on the new shift, especially on attracting doctoral students. We aim for them to become engaged and realise how much interesting work can be done while studying and working at VILNIUS TECH.

Challenges. What is the most challenging aspect of leading a team for you? Do you have a success formula that helps overcome complex situations and organise the team's work smoothly?

The workload is a significant challenge. A large volume of diverse tasks and inquiries can disrupt or slow down the pace of work. However, with a calm perspective, everything is achievable. Sometimes tasks require more than just an hour - they may take several days. It's essential to understand this and prepare accordingly: there are no difficult tasks—only those of varying durations.

Future Projects. What are the most important projects currently on your team's agenda?

Attracting funding for the implementation of the MTEP funds project "Centre for civil engineering sciences" (Project No. S-A-UEI-23-5) is currently crucial. Since this project extends until 2028, attracting funds will remain relevant in the coming years.

Innovations. How much attention do you pay to searching for new opportunities, integrating innovations, and new technologies into the team's work?

Innovations naturally arise when you aim to accomplish more tasks with the same resources. Competent individuals become independent innovators when they quickly automate or optimize their work, enabling them to accomplish more in the same amount of time.

(Un)Success Stories. Do you have any noteworthy success or failure stories to share with the VILNIUS TECH community? What lessons have you learnt?

Success and failure stories are part of every journey: you write an article that editors or reviewers reject, and then you must submit it to another journal. If you don't try elsewhere, you'll remain in a state of failure. The same applies to project applications. Without negative experiences, you won't gain positive ones.

Choices. Why did you choose VILNIUS TECH? Do you feel like a part of the university team?

When the opportunity to work at the university arose, both my family and colleagues supported this decision. While the added value provided by the university might not be entirely clear at the outset, it becomes increasingly evident over time in various situations. Observing a change in students—how their perception of learning and worldview evolves every few years. It is fascinating and encourages continuous growth. Working at the university necessitates being part of the team; otherwise, one won't achieve anything. So, inevitably, I am part of the team.

Hero. Which hero did you admire in your childhood? Why?

Childhood was an era when heroes embodied protest against the established order, promoted patriotism, and instilled hope for a better future. Consequently, all animated or movie characters were highly popular due to society's desire for change.

Relaxation. What helps you unwind after an intense workday?

Spending time outdoors and engaging in physical activity leads to relaxation. And it doesn't necessarily have to be sports—just any active pursuit.

Growth. What book, movie, or play would you recommend to the VILNIUS TECH community?

Lately, I've been watching animated films more frequently. Therefore, I recommend watching "Kung Fu Panda 4." If you watch it with children - they'll enjoy it, and you'll find many associations with the questions and answers from this interview.

Advice. What guidance would you offer to a young person embarking on their career? What should they focus on?

I would advise listening to the advice of your leaders and learning from them during the first 10 years, investing in yourself, and accumulating knowledge. This will enable you to build a solid foundation of knowledge and grow into a leader. Most importantly, remember that we all have equal opportunities, and success depends solely on our desires, interests, and goals.

The article was prepared by Milda Mockunaite-Vitkiene, Project manager of Internal communication projects at VILNIUS TECH Directorate of public communication