Irena Merkaš is a senior communications leader with over 18 years of experience across the FMCG and technology sectors.
She currently serves as Head of Communications for Microsoft across the Adriatic, Balkans, Ukraine, and CIS, where she leads strategic, multi-market initiatives that build trust, engage stakeholders, and drive business impact.
Irena holds a degree in International Business from Libertas International University in Zagreb, which complements her global communications expertise and strategic advisory work.
Her career is distinguished by excellence in executive communications, crisis management, and transformation storytelling—most notably through her leadership of Microsoft communications in Ukraine during wartime, and her advisory roles on Microsoft AI Tours across Central and Southeast Europe.
She is a recipient of the ICON Global Corporate Award and the Pro PR Globe Award, and frequently speaks at universities and industry forums on CSR, accessibility, and the future of communications.
Irena holds certifications in AI, design thinking, and change management, and is passionate about integrating technology into modern communications strategies.
Her approach blends strategic insight with human-centered storytelling, making her a compelling voice in today’s evolving communications landscape.
