Leading with Heart: Nadežda Demeterová’s Sweet Success

120 years of history, one family, and the unmistakable taste of home in every jar of jam. This is the story of RISO-R – a family business from Rimavská Sobota led with heart and experience by Nadežda Demeterová, winner of the Slovak Woman of the Year 2022 award in the Business and Management category.

We spoke with her about the challenges of traditional production in a modern world, the strength of family business, what drives her, and what advice she would give to women considering a similar path.

Your family has maintained a tradition of jam making for over 120 years. How did you come to continue this tradition?

We started the business in 1991 together with other families in a cannery. It wasn’t easy – as I often say, while things were hard at work, things were good between us. Later, once the situation stabilized, relationships became more complicated, and we eventually agreed to sell our shares. Then we started our own family company, where we now work alongside our sons.

For our family, jam making is more than just a business – it’s a part of our identity. We see it as a mission, a continuation of the legacy left by the generations before us. The greatest challenge is maintaining a balance between tradition and modernization. We want to preserve the original recipes and artisanal quality, yet we must also remain competitive in today’s market full of major players. Our motivation comes from pride, passion, and the knowledge that we are creating something of lasting value.

In 2022, you received the Slovak Woman of the Year award. What did that mean to you?

This award is a great honor for me. I see it not just as personal recognition, but above all as recognition for our entire RISO-R team, which works every day to preserve quality, tradition, and values. Slovak Woman of the Year is an award unlike any other in Europe – and that makes me appreciate it even more.

It gave me strength and even more motivation to continue what we do – connecting history with modern challenges. I also realize how important it is to be a role model and inspiration for other women. I want to show them that even in traditional industries, they can succeed, build a brand, and stay true to their values.

How do you manage to balance family and business?

RISO-R is literally a part of our family. It’s more than just a business – it’s a shared project we are building for our children and, I hope, for their children too. A big advantage is our cohesion. When we are all on the same page, we overcome obstacles more easily.

Of course, it’s not always easy. Work blends with personal life, and it can be hard to maintain distance. It’s important to set clear boundaries, respect each other, and divide tasks properly. It works for us – even after 20 years of working together, we still laugh, collaborate, and spend time together outside of work.

You mentioned that employees are key. How do you build your team?

Employees are the heart of our company. Without their daily work, loyalty, and dedication, we wouldn’t be where we are today. We create an environment where every employee knows their work matters and that they’re part of something bigger. We emphasize open communication, respect, fairness, and teamwork. When our people feel good, their satisfaction reflects in the quality of our products. And that’s what it’s all about – doing things not just well, but with heart.

“When our people feel good, their satisfaction reflects in the quality of our products.”

Traditional production isn’t easy today. How are you adapting?

Our journey is about balance. Craftsmanship and tradition are our foundation, but we know we wouldn’t survive without innovation. We’re modernizing production, seeking eco-friendly solutions, and offering healthier versions of our products.

We also collaborate with local farmers, supporting our region. Against big brands, our greatest strengths are honesty, authentic taste, and a personal approach. I believe that even in a fast-paced world, craftsmanship still has its place.

What role does RISO-R play in Rimavská Sobota?

Rimavská Sobota is our home. We feel a responsibility and a natural need to help – not just by employing people, but by actively participating in the community. We work with local suppliers, support cultural and sports events, and engage in various initiatives.

We believe that a strong region and a strong company go hand in hand.

When the region grows, so do we.

How do you perceive generational differences within the company?

Becoming part of the company felt natural to me. I never really considered any other option. For me, it was about securing work for our family and continuing something meaningful.

I see generational differences more as enrichment than a problem. Older generations tent to bring experience, younger ones bring new perspectives. The key is open communication and mutual respect. The combination of a real tradition and this new innovation can truly bring long-term success to every single company.

What advice would you give to women who want to start a business or join a family company?

Don’t be afraid to follow your dream. If you believe in your vision, don’t let obstacles discourage you. In traditional industries, it’s important to maintain a balance between tradition and innovation – but it’s possible.

Surround yourself with capable people, give them trust and space. If you have discipline and an inner ‘boss’, you can achieve great results. Entrepreneurship is demanding, but it can bring great fulfillment.

The story of Nadežda Demeterová is proof that honest craftsmanship, strong values, and family unity still have a place in today’s world. And that even a jar of jam can carry a story – of courage, perseverance, and a taste passed down from generation to generation.

10 TIPS FOR WOMEN WHO OWN FAMILY BUSINESSES

By Erika Madari Matwij, expert in family business and founder of the Family Business Institute (www.irbslovensko.sk)

1. Don’t let yourself be torn between roles. You’re a business leader, mother, partner, daughter – but you can’t be everything at once. Define clearly when you are “at work” and when you are “with family.”
2. See the business as a shared creation. If other family members are involved, support their sense of co-responsibility – not subordination. This strengthens both relationships and performance.
3. Build trust, not dependence. Delegate responsibility where possible – to both colleagues and family. Micromanagement causes tension and hinders growth.
4. Establish family rules. Even if it’s “just” a small local business, every enterprise needs structure. A family constitution, ownership governance rules, and clear onboarding processes for relatives all help avoid conflicts.
5. Talk about the hard stuff. Money, ownership, succession, compensation – none of it is automatic. Just because you know these things doesn’t mean your family does. Avoiding the conversation doesn’t make problems disappear – it only delays them.
6. Don’t sacrifice yourself silently. Many women “hold the business together” without recognition. It’s okay to say what you need and to ask for support.
7. Maintain continuity, but don’t cling to the past. Respect tradition, but stay open to innovation. The most successful family businesses know when to stay true to their roots – and when it’s time for change.
8. Don’t be afraid to be a role model. Your children, employees, and community notice how you lead. Your leadership style has the power to inspire.
9. Invest in yourself. Women business owners often invest in everyone else – except themselves. Prioritize education, coaching, and networks of other women leaders.
10. Remember that your role evolves. What the business and family needed ten years ago may no longer apply. Regularly reassess your position, role, and goals – not out of obligation, but as a sign of mature leadership and self-respect.