Ante Grubišić: Building Authentic Connections in Hospitality and Leadership

In the heart of Zagreb, Croatia, Ante Grubišić, a 31-year-old hotel manager, has found a way to weave purpose, leadership, and authenticity into his work. His journey from an aspiring professional in the hospitality industry to a mentor and coach for young leaders showcases how values-driven leadership can create meaningful change—not just in the workplace but also in the lives of those around him.

A Foundation of Faith and Family
Ante’s story is deeply rooted in his family and faith. He and his wife, Zrinka, have been married since 2020, having met through their church community. Together, they are raising their son, Pavao, whose curiosity and free-spirited nature inspire Ante daily. “He reminds me of what it means to live with true freedom and joy,” Ante shares.

Zrinka, a psychotherapist, has played a significant role in shaping Ante’s perspective on leadership. Her work in helping others discover their true selves has sparked many deep conversations between them, helping Ante approach people with greater empathy and understanding.

Their shared values have guided Ante to not only lead his team but also mentor others, empowering them to step into their potential.

A Career Built on Service
Ante’s passion for hospitality began at a young age. Surrounded by the industry during his childhood, he discovered a love for creating experiences that bring joy and comfort to others. Now, as the manager of Hotel Jaron, Ante has embraced the challenges and opportunities of leadership.

“Hospitality is more than just a profession—it’s a calling to serve others authentically,” Ante reflects. This belief drives his approach to leadership, where he strives to foster a supportive environment for his team and guests alike.

Beyond his role as a hotel manager, Ante’s journey in leadership took a transformative turn when he pursued further education at a Leadership and Coaching Academy. The experience deepened his understanding of himself and others, equipping him to guide young leaders as a coach. “Helping others navigate the challenges of leadership and see their potential is one of the most rewarding aspects of my work,” Ante shares.

Discovering the Global Leadership Summit
Ante’s introduction to the Global Leadership Summit (GLS) in 2018 was a pivotal moment. A lecture by the late Dražen Glavaš, titled “How to Be Successful Without Losing Your Soul,” ignited a passion for integrating faith-based values into business practices.

“Attending that lecture was eye-opening,” Ante recalls. “It was the first time I realized that leadership grounded in values could transform not only businesses but also communities.”

Inspired by this revelation, Ante attended his first GLS event later that year. It was there that he encountered leaders who shared his vision of authentic, values-driven leadership. A particularly impactful moment came during a panel discussion featuring the manager of Hotel Jaron. That encounter led to a mentorship opportunity that profoundly shaped Ante’s career.

Living Out the GLS Mission
Since that first Summit, Ante has attended five GLS events and continues to embody its mission in his professional and personal life. For Ante, the GLS represents more than just a conference—it’s a community of like-minded individuals working toward a common goal: influencing the world through authentic leadership.

“GLS has shown me that when leadership is done with love and authenticity, it touches people’s hearts and creates lasting impact,” Ante says.

Through his involvement with GLS and his work as a coach, Ante is dedicated to helping others see their potential and step confidently into their roles as leaders. His passion for empowering young leaders is a testament to the transformative power of servant leadership.

A Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, Ante hopes to continue creating spaces where leaders can grow, connect, and make a difference. Whether through his work in hospitality or his role as a coach, Ante remains committed to building a culture of authentic leadership rooted in values.

When asked about his prayer for other leaders in the GLS family, Ante says, “I pray for joy and peace that is deeply rooted and unshakable—a gift that sustains us through every challenge. May we lead with love, authenticity, and a heart for service.”

Ante’s journey is a powerful reminder that leadership, when grounded in purpose and authenticity, has the power to transform lives and communities.