Milena Hristova joined the team of Ellatzite-Med AD in 2018 as Deputy Director of Human Resources. Prior to that, her career was linked to the “Center for Management and Vocational Training,” a company within the GEOTECHMIN Group. Since 2019, she has held the position of HR Director, overseeing all policies and processes related to recruitment, onboarding, training, motivation, and career development within the company.
Nowadays, it is common for companies to claim that human capital is their most valuable asset. Many say it, but you can recognize those for whom this is truly embedded in their corporate DNA by the way they invest in people. It is well known that copper ores in Bulgaria have one of the lowest metal contents. This compels us not only to continuously invest in innovative technologies, but also in people – to ensure maximum process efficiency. We may have low-grade ores, but we are rich in talent. To harness this potential, we nurture it at every level – from school and university to continuous development throughout the work process. At Ellatzite-Med AD, this is a strategic priority.
In this context, integrating the HR strategy with the overall business strategy is a key factor. The HR department acts as a strategic partner, with decisions based on data and analysis. Analytical tools are used for talent acquisition, development, and retention, alongside employer branding and corporate culture enhancement.
At Ellatzite-Med AD, we promote continuous learning through various methods – online platforms, webinars, and practical training programmes. We implement individual development plans and mentoring programmes. This approach enables employees to learn while working. We utilize digital platforms, artificial intelligence, and automation in candidate selection and process management. The company’s policies support equal opportunities, inclusive leadership, and the advancement of women in technical and managerial roles.
Building open and transparent communication is essential. In our practice, we welcome feedback, which enhances the effectiveness of training and allows us to refine the content and structure of our programmes.
Staff development encompasses activities aimed at enhancing employees’ knowledge, skills, and competencies. Key objectives include improving professional qualifications, preparing future leaders, retaining talent, and fostering innovation. Our approach involves strategic planning, personalized development plans, and continuous learning.
Internship, Scholarship, and Practical Training Programmes
To achieve our goals of identifying, training, and retaining young talent, and ensuring the sustainable development of human capital, we implement various programmes – internship, scholarship, practical training, and, importantly, dual education programmes. These initiatives support the integration of young people into the job market and ensure a consistent recruitment of qualified professionals. The aim of our internship programmes is to attract and develop young talent. Our experience shows that well-structured programmes with clear objectives, mentorship, real work tasks, feedback, and post-internship employment opportunities are highly impactful. Internship programmes serve an important social and economic function. The opportunities we offer encourage active youth participation in learning and employment, help build skills for competitiveness, and strengthen the link between education and business. In a broader sense, these programmes represent an investment in human capital.
Over the years, more than 500 students have participated in internship programmes at Ellatzite-Med AD, with over 75 of them continuing their careers within the company. In addition to internships, we also run scholarship and practical training programmes. The scholarship programme aims to support talented students and encourage their development. It includes financial assistance, university partnerships, transparent selection, mentoring, and employment opportunities. In recent years, we have supported 22 students through this programme, five of whom are now part of our team. We actively collaborate with the University of Mining and Geology “St. Ivan Rilski,” the Technical University of Sofia, and the University of Architecture, Civil Engineering and Geodesy.
Practical training programmes provide opportunities to apply academic knowledge in a real work environment. Best practices include collaboration with universities, clearly defined objectives, mutual agreements, and feedback mechanisms.
Dual Vocation Training: Bridging Education and Practice
At the core of the dual education are partnerships between vocational schools and enterprises, combined learning, mentorship, remuneration, and employment opportunities after graduation. At Ellatzite-Med AD, we believe that to overcome the shortage of qualified professionals – which hinders sustainable job market development in the mining sector – joint programmes supporting the dual education system must be developed. Our work on this project has yielded excellent results. The synergy between all stakeholders involved in the training and practical implementation enables us to achieve our goals. The outcome is well-trained and engaged young individuals, some of whom continue their education at higher institutions. The technical development achieved by students through years of practical training is significant. They are motivated, committed, and diligent – thanks to the efforts of their mentors.
Within our partnership with Zlatitsa Vocational High School in the town of Zlatitsa, fifteen students from three graduating classes successfully completed their practical training at the Flotation Complex in Mirkovo. In the 2025/2026 academic year, twelve students, specializing in Metalworking Machinery, Automotive Transport Equipment, Welding Machines and Equipment and Electrical Fitting of Production Processes, will be trained on site.
Eight students from Todor Peev Vocational High School in the town of Etropole, completed their practical training at the Mining Complex in Etropole. In the 2025/2026 academic year, twenty-seven students will be trained there – eleven in 12th grade and sixteen in 11th grade. The specialties we support at Todor Peev Vocational High School include Electrical Installations and Road Construction Equipment.
The development of personnel through internship, scholarship, practical training, and dual education programmes creates sustainable links between education and business, fosters professional growth, and enhances economic competitiveness. We believe that investing in such programmes builds a strong employer brand and a culture of learning.