The Digital Poland Foundation is making changes to its management. Igor Zacharjasz became the new Chairman of the Foundation's Board, and Michał Boni, former Minister of Digitalisation, took over as President of the Board. The goal is to strengthen the Foundation's activities in the area of innovation, digital transformation and the education and improvement of digital competences of Poles. The new management emphasises the need for collaboration, investment in education and accelerating the digital transformation of Polish companies. Cooperation at all levels - from entrepreneurs to public institutions - will be crucial for Poland to take full advantage of the upcoming technological opportunities.
The Digital Poland Foundation announces key changes to its Board structure, which were approved by the Foundation Council on 5 August 2024. These decisions are the result of in-depth strategic discussions and a desire to further develop the Foundation in response to the changing digital challenges in Poland and Europe.
The position of Chairman of the Foundation's Council is held by Igor Zacharjasz, who is the Director of Digital Channel Solutions in the product development department in Central and Eastern Europe at Visa, one of the global leaders in digital payments. He is an experienced manager in the field of innovation development, who over the years has actively contributed to promoting new technologies and building a culture of collaboration in Poland. His experience and vision will be key to the further development of the Foundation's activities, especially in supporting innovation.
– Digitalisation is more than just a new technology. It is the result of a change in consumer needs and in the operating model of companies and institutions. I believe that the future will be built on data, choice and the search for the best user experience. For this to happen, consumers and businesses need to be convinced that data is safe and they are in control. This requires education and demonstrating the benefits of digital tools. This is the task I see before the Digital Poland Foundation, and as President of the Foundation's Council I will support its implementation – says Igor Zacharjasz, Head of Digital Channel Solutions, Product Development, Central and Eastern Europe, Visa.
At the same time, Michał Boni takes up the position of President of the Foundation's Board of Directors and replaces Dominika Bettman. Michał Boni, former Minister of Digitisation and Member of the European Parliament, brings to the Foundation extensive experience in digital policy and international cooperation, both of which are crucial during the Polish Presidency of the Council of the European Union. He will be responsible for the implementation of the Foundation's strategic objectives, with particular emphasis on the development of innovation, the smooth digital transformation in Poland and education.
– Digitalisation is the key to the development of modern societies. As President of the Board of the Digital Poland Foundation, I am pleased to be able to support a digital transformation that not only responds to the needs of companies, but above all puts people first – states Michał Boni, former Minister of Digitalisation and MEP.
Edyta Malesza-Malatrat has also joined the board of the Digital Poland Foundation, taking up the position of board member for marketing and PR. Edyta Malesza-Malatrat is an experienced leader with many years of marketing experience gained in European markets. She currently holds the position of marketing and PR director at Symfonia Group. Her knowledge and expertise in the areas of marketing and digitalisation will provide valuable support for the Foundation's activities.
– I am delighted to be joining the Board of the Foundation. I think that the Foundation's philosophy to educate and act together is the right approach to the wider adoption of digitalisation by society and Polish businesses. And I'm already looking forward to the first joint projects – adds Edyta Malesza-Malatrat, Director of Marketing and PR at Symfonia Group.
Aleksander Kutela, spiritus movens of the Foundation, who until now has been the Chairman of the Foundation's Board, emphasised that he was proud to observe the development of the Digital Poland Foundation and was convinced that the new team would take the organisation to an even higher level.
– I am extremely proud of what we have achieved as a team. I have full confidence in Igor Zacharjasz and Michał Boni, that with their experience and vision the Digital Poland Foundation will continue its mission and contribute even more to the digital transformation of Poland – underlines Aleksander Kutela, outgoing Chairman of the Foundation's Council.
These changes are an important step in the further development of the Digital Poland Foundation, which aims to support innovation and digitisation in Poland. The new management is committed to continuing existing activities and introducing new initiatives that will contribute to strengthening Poland's position on the European innovation map.
The Board of the Digital Poland Foundation, chaired by Michał Boni, consists of Agnieszka Benowska, Chief Financial Officer, responsible for the Foundation's finances, while Aleksandra Brzozowska, as Board Member for International Cooperation, coordinates international relations. Mariusz Grzesiuk, Vice President and Chief Legal Officer, oversees legal aspects, while Agnieszka Jankowska deals with the development of digital education. Edyta Malesza-Malatrat, as Board Member for Marketing and PR, oversees the marketing and communication area, and Piotr Mieczkowski manages the foundation as Managing Director and Board Member.
Founders and Partners of the Digital Poland Foundation include: Baker McKenzie, Fujitsu, Lenovo, Play, Polpharma, Ringier Axel Springer Polska, Symfonia, T-Mobile Polska, TVN Warner Bros. Discovery or Visa.
More information about the Digital Poland Foundation, the projects and initiatives it runs, and the companies and organisations it works with can be found at: www.digitalpoland.org.