Generace Š / tereza-macounova

Tereza Macounová

Cars and Company — It's a Family Thing

Her grandparents started out at the car manufacturer, her father worked here, and now her brother and other close family members are also part of the team. How does she see the future with the fourth generation? "If future generations of our family were to find a place here one day, it would mean that Škoda has managed to preserve its strong values and innovative identity even during times of fundamental change," she says.

Which of your ancestors influenced you the most?

My grandfather, who worked as a car mechanic — probably in my love for cars, which he loved and repaired himself. But what moved me the most was my father's story: he joined the then-AZNP as an inspector in 1982. A major change came after the merger with the VW Group in 1991. Because he spoke German, he worked closely with his German colleagues, which eventually led him to the position of department head. He left Škoda Auto after nearly 40 years of service. For me, his story is a huge inspiration and, at the same time, proof that working at Škoda Auto can truly be a lifelong journey.

What milestones has your family witnessed?

My grandfather experienced the advent of modern production with the legendary Škoda 1000 MB and was also there at the birth of the Škoda Favorit model. My father was part of one of the biggest transformations in the company's history. He was there when new models were created that defined the brand for future generations — from the Felicia to the Octavia to the Fabia. He remembers the period of dynamic growth, expansion into foreign markets and the company's gradual transformation into a strong and respected global brand.

Do you have a favourite family memory from your childhood?

We had this family ritual — whenever Dad traded in his company car. Before turning it in, we'd always go on a "farewell drive" — to take one last ride, reminisce and basically say a symbolic goodbye to the car.

And do you have a story of your own?

That one is probably the most personal. In 2021, I decided to sell my own Škoda Octavia RS. I put the car up for sale, and a prospective buyer came by who eventually bought it. That buyer was my current boyfriend, and from a simple car sale, our shared story began to unfold.

What do you think connects all the generations of your family?

Each of them saw working at the car manufacturer as something meaningful, and they also saw the concrete results on the road. We're also united by hard work, responsibility and loyalty. It's thanks to people like that — who take their work seriously and with dedication — that the company has such excellent results today.

When did you realise that you wanted to work here too?

Even back in kindergarten, at the Christmas party, when it was my turn, I said without hesitation that I would work at Škoda. I took it for granted. To this day, Škoda is something of a "family brand" to me.

Was it your family background that inspired you?

Growing up in a family where several generations worked at the car factory was a natural part of my everyday life. At the same time, I realised that working at the same company could take many forms and paths. When I later decided on my own career path, it wasn't just about "following in the family's footsteps," but a conscious decision to build on something that has deeper meaning.

Why did you choose your current field of focus?

My path led me to Škoda Academy because my field of study at ŠAVŠ was key to the topic of my bachelor's thesis. After my first internship at the Customer Centre, I applied for another one at the vocational school. After completing my master's degree, I actively sought a position at Škoda Academy.

How would you briefly describe the scope of your work?

The main focus of my work is the recruitment campaign for students at the vocational school. I focus on how we present our school to the outside world and how effectively we reach future applicants. As part of this, I am in charge of school marketing, manage the website and social media, and prepare and organise recruitment events. At the same time, I handle communication for projects at Škoda Academy, contribute to the education section of the company's annual report and coordinate topics related to social sustainability and education in general.

Škoda isn't just a car or a brand; it can also be linked to pivotal moments in life. In my case, there was even one that changed my life.

What specifically are you working on right now?

We're currently preparing for Girls Day, an event designed for girls in Year 8. We want to show them that technical fields aren't just for boys, but that they can be interesting for everyone. At the same time, I'm in charge of our vocational school's anniversary — its building will celebrate an incredible 100 years of existence next year.

When was the last time you felt a strong sense of pride in the Škoda brand?

Every time I've shown visitors around the school. Our vocational school is among the most modern in the Czech Republic — students have access to facilities that reflect current trends and technologies, and later find employment in skilled and promising positions. This reinforces my sense of pride in the brand and in the vocational education system that Škoda has been building over the long term.

What do you think the Škoda brand might look like in another 20–30 years?

I would like it to retain what has always made it strong — humanity, integrity and clarity. I hope that as an employer, it will remain a company where generations come together. Ideally, it will be technologically cutting-edge, yet still human.

A Dream Come True

"The Škoda Octavia RS has been my big dream since childhood, and later it became a defining part of my life. Today I continue in this sporty vein with the Kodiaq RS, but the Octavia RS remains close to my heart."

My Best Companion

"After a regular workday, I love to unwind next to my dog Jessie, a miniature poodle who is my companion in almost everything. I spend most of my free time with her."

Bohemian Paradise

"This region offers absolutely everything — from beautiful historical monuments to peaceful walks around ponds, rocks and forests. Everyone can find something there," Tereza encourages a visit.

Generation Š:
A Tradition Passed Down

Do multiple generations of your family work at Škoda Auto? Are you already part of the third, fourth — or even more? We'd love to share your stories, which show just how strong the family tradition is at Škoda Auto. Sign up or recommend a colleague. Just send an e‑mail with a basic information.