Leon Jakimic found Lasvit, a glass art installation and glass art lighting company.
What’s your story?
Lasvit, a company I founded in 2007 in both the Czech Republic (glass and crystal manufacturing) and Hong Kong (Holding Company and Asia Pac headquarters) is a story of Bohemian perfection – our company’s philosophy that defines our values. “Bohemian” meaning not only having our roots and glass-making tradition in Bohemia (Czech Republic), but also being creative and free-spirited. “Perfection” stands for precise craftsmanship. Also thanks to sticking to these core values, Lasvit has become the world’s largest glass art installation and glass art lighting company since its foundation nine years ago in 2007.
What excites you most about your industry?
Art glass, design and lighting are exciting fields to be in. Glass is a magical material that is neither liquid nor solid, a great medium to interpret light which is intangible. True design is more than how things look; it is how they make you feel. Combining elements of these three industries together, is powerful.
What’s your connection to Asia?
I have been living in Hong Kong for 16 years together with my wife Lucie and five children who were all born in HK. Our holding company and Asia Pacific Headquarters are also in HK. 35% of our global revenues come from Asia Pacific.
Favourite city in Asia for business and why?
Hong Kong. Best location in Asia. It’s a center for developers and the creative community (i.e. architects, interior designers and artists). It has a high quality of life in general, it’s safe and has good schools.
What’s the best piece of advice you ever received?
Never delegate, always understand.
Who inspires you?
Anyone who is able to turn a vision into reality.
What have you just learnt recently that blew you away?
Culture eats strategy for breakfast.
If you had your time again, what would you do differently?
Chose a few managers more carefully but generally I am very pleased with what I have done so far.
How do you unwind?
I play tennis, ski, hike and run. I study history, read books, watch movies, play with kids and hang out with friends.
Favourite Asian destination for relaxation? Why?
Summer: Koh Samui. Nice beaches, people and resorts. I like Thai food. Direct flights from Hong Kong.
Winter: Niseko. It’s a great place to ski and enjoy onsen after skiing.
Everyone in business should read this book:
I don’t read business books as there are so many of them and I can’t possibly read them all. I watch some of the inspiring Ted Talks on YouTube and a great book to read for anyone is “Civilization” by Niall Ferguson. You learn so much about why the world stands where it is.
Shameless plug for your business:
http://lasvit.com/ – We transform glass into breathtaking light and design experiences.
How can people connect with you?
[email protected]
Twitter handle?
Only as Lasvit, not personally.
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This interview was part of the Callum Connect’s column found on The Asian Entrepreneur:
Callum Laing invests and buys small businesses in a range of industries around Asia. He has previously started, built and sold half a dozen businesses and is the founder & owner of Fitness-Buffet a company delivering employee wellness solutions in 12 countries. He is a Director of, amongst others, Key Person of Influence. A 40 week training program for business owners and executives.
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