Benjamin Lakatos, Executive Chairman of MET Group, detailed the company’s evolution from a 2007 startup into a 28-billion-euro energy giant, identifying human capital and cultural alignment as the primary drivers of success in a guest lecture at the Corvinus University of Budapest.
Source: CEEnergynews
Speaking to students at the university where he himself graduated in Finance, Lakatos described MET as an “HR success story,” one built deliberately on a philosophy of hiring young, highly motivated talent and giving them room to grow. In his view, the company’s greatest challenge has never been financial constraints or external market volatility, but something far less tangible: creating a shared “common language” and cohesive corporate culture across an exceptionally diverse workforce.
This is no small task. As an integrated European energy company headquartered in Switzerland, MET operates across natural gas and power markets with a footprint that spans 23 countries through its subsidiaries, 33 national energy markets, and 51 international trading hubs. Its 1,400 employees represent close to 60 nationalities – a level of diversity that is both a competitive advantage and a daily organisational test.
“Culture beats strategy,” Lakatos noted, advising future entrepreneurs to prioritise trust-based leadership over fear-based models to ensure long-term viability. He also stressed the importance of self-awareness, both at an individual and organisational level, noting that “knowing your strengths and weaknesses is critical”. “Pick the fights where your core strengths are the key to winning,” he added, underlining that continuously developing your competitive advantage is essential for long-term success.
When addressing the European energy landscape, he advocated for a “profitable green transition.” He warned that while the shift is essential, Europe faces a decade-long innovation gap to remain competitive against American and Asian markets, while simultaneously maintaining security of supply.
When asked about the outcome of the recent Hungarian elections, Lakatos said he welcomes any political change that strengthens Europe. Addressing whether the results could affect the company in any way, he expressed clear confidence: “I am convinced that MET will benefit from this change and will perform even better – no doubt about that.”