Management and Personnel Criticisms at Ukrainian Railways
In a YouTube interview on PopenkoPro, expert Oleh Popenko offered a critical assessment of Ukraine's state-owned corporations, particularly Ukrainian Railways (Ukrzaliznytsia), and the quality of their management. He noted that while these state enterprises were economic leaders two decades ago, Ukrzaliznytsia has now become a stark symbol of decline. This analysis comes at a time when efficient state management is crucial for Ukraine's wartime economy and future recovery.
Popenko pointed out that in the early 2000s under the leadership of Heorhiy Kirpa, Ukrzaliznytsia was the nation's most profitable company, undertaking mass capital repairs and wagon purchases, which signaled its success and stability. However, he expressed concern over the current state of these corporations, emphasizing the low quality of management personnel who have been appointed to these roles.
The Political Class Divide and Its Consequences
Oleh Popenko categorizes the current political class into two groups: so-called Western-oriented reformers, and individuals who have risen to the top of the hierarchy via social mobility in recent years. He stressed that some of these people lack the necessary experience and knowledge to effectively manage state enterprises.
'We're talking about people who have never seen or held more than ten thousand dollars in their lives, yet they somehow become members of parliament... and it goes to their heads. They are incapable not only of understanding, but even of assessing where they are.' - Oleh Popenko
Popenko also raised the issue of why some managers show indifference to the situation in Ukraine. He gave an example, asserting that 'Why does he act this way? Because at any moment he can pack up and leave for America; he is profoundly indifferent to what happens here.' This suggests that some leaders lack the motivation to improve the situation in state corporations like Ukrzaliznytsia.
In expressing his view, Oleh Popenko underscores the vital importance of quality management in state corporations, which is key to the stability and development of Ukraine's economy. The situation at Ukrzaliznytsia serves as an example that may point to broader systemic issues in state enterprise governance requiring urgent resolution. Amidst contemporary challenges like war and economic hardship, the effectiveness of management personnel becomes even more critical for ensuring the successful operation of vital economic sectors.