Interview with the undercover boss, Amir Krenzia

People are wondering how the “Undercover Boss” operation started in Alka. What can you tell us?

The proposal came from the agency that makes this show for PRO TV, as they were searching for a company that makes products loved by Romanians to complete the series. So they found us. They launched this challenge at me and I said… why not? We at Alka are always surprising anyways. It is true that we saw this show as an opportunity to make known and show our roots and values.

We understand that you are very well known within the company and often go among people. What did you want to find out?

That’s true, I consider that I know my company and the people within well, we have employees who have been with us since the opening of the first factory, but I am aware that some aspects are seen differently from the perspective of the owner and that of an employee. The company that my father and I founded began with some principles and values that we still keep today. We care about our people and our consumers, we are always surprising, we know how to make the best products and we make them with joy to further onwards spread joy.

The company grew quite a lot and I found it an interesting idea to be undercover to check first of all whether our values are preserved and respected. I left thinking that if I discovered that somewhere our values are not respected, after the show I will make sure that they are very clear and implemented.

What did you learn from the character that you played?

I wouldn’t say that I learned anything from the character that I had played, but his interaction with our people made me reflect a little bit. To think that you are not the only one who puts his soul into what Alka means is a great joy and furthermore you recognize that there is never enough you can do for the people who are implicated.

What comments did you receive from colleagues after your participation on the show?

They weren’t very shocked that I accepted this challenge, they’re used to the element of surprise with me. However, they were surprised that I wasn’t recognized given that the people in the company know me, being among them for so long.

What does Alka mean to you?

My greatest achievement, a project built from scratch. Today, looking back 25 years ago when it all started, Alka represents a dream come true for me.