Shaping the Future of Crystal Craftsmanship at Preciosa

From summer intern to CEO, Jan Štiller has worn more than his fair share of proverbial hats during his 20-plus year tenure at Preciosa. Notably, this is Jan’s second appointment as CEO; he previously held the role at Vinolok, the Group’s glass bottle-closure division, before returning to Components in 2016, where he eventually became its sales and marketing director.

Interview with CEO of Preciosa Components

Jan Štiller, CEO of Preciosa Components

Since then, Jan has adeptly steered the company through a global pandemic, supply chain disruptions, a continent-wide energy crisis, inflation, and the shifting consumer preferences that define the luxury fashion industry. Jan attributes his success to his extensive and varied roles within the Preciosa Group, which have equipped him with a thorough and holistic understanding of the glassmaking industry and the company’s operations. We sat down with Jan following his appointment to ask him about his plans for the future of Preciosa.

Preciosa: Congratulations on your recent appointment, Jan. Can you share your vision for the future of Preciosa?

Jan Štiller: Thank you. My goal is to position Preciosa as the leading global supplier of premium crystal components. Achieving this requires innovation across all areas of the business, from product development to customer service, while proactively meeting the specific demands of the luxury crystal market.

Preciosa: What crystal innovations is Preciosa currently developing?

JŠ: Innovation is at the core of our strategy. We’re focusing on unique products that align with market trends. Our research and development team is also creating eco-friendly crystal colors, like cadmium-free Acid Yellow and Red Velvet, which distinguish our product portfolio from other crystal manufacturers.

Preciosa: How does innovation impact Preciosa’s growth strategy?

JŠ: Having superior crystal products is just the beginning. We’re refining our testing and application services and introducing a new range of semi-finished and tailor-made crystal solutions. Our goal is to offer both high-quality crystal components and the expertise needed to help our clients use them effectively.

Preciosa: What’s Preciosa’s biggest strategic advantage?

JŠ: Our production is 100% in the Czech Republic, ensuring full control over the process and maintaining genuine European crystal quality. As more producers flood the market with subpar products, we’re committed to educating our customers about the value of authentic, Made-in-Europe crystal that adheres to strict environmental and labor regulations.

Preciosa: Aside from your recent appointment, are you especially proud of any professional accomplishments?

JŠ: In my early days with Preciosa’s R&D department, I helped develop a breakthrough colored crystal glass technology still used today. It was a key milestone in both my career and Preciosa’s innovation journey.

Preciosa: What’s your favorite part about working at Preciosa?

JŠ: It’s challenging to pinpoint a single answer. For me, communicating with people, being part of a team, and working together towards goals are what I enjoy the most. Over the last 15 years, I’ve held various roles in production, R&D, and sales. Sales is particularly rewarding because it allows me to channel the team’s hard work into satisfying our customers. That feeling is unbeatable.