Emil Vacík is the new candidate for Dean of the Faculty of Economics at UWB

On Wednesday, November 12, the Academic Senate of the Faculty of Economics at UWB elected Emil Vacík as its candidate for Dean. Emil Vacík, who has worked at the faculty since 1993, received votes from 8 of the 15 senators. Former UWB vice-rector Dita Hommerová also ran for the position.

The Faculty of Economics will enter a new chapter in March 2026 under the leadership of Emil Vacík. He was elected as the new candidate for Dean by the Academic Senate of the Faculty of Economics, University of West Bohemia in Pilsen. Professor Emil Vacík aims to build on the faculty’s achievements and develop it as a modern, safe academic environment that ensures equal and non-discriminatory access for everyone. His main priorities include cooperation, motivated students and staff, and maintaining accreditation for all study programs, including habilitation and professorial appointment procedures.

“My vision is for the Faculty of Economics to be, by 2030, a strong institution with transparent internal and external communication, high-quality infrastructure, international projects, attractive study opportunities at all levels, and strong partnerships for active collaboration both in the Czech Republic and abroad,” said Dean candidate Emil Vacík.

Among the key challenges ahead, he highlights meeting quality standards, strengthening international cooperation, and integrating modern technologies, including AI, into education. According to him, the faculty must adapt to the new realities of university funding and become a sought-after partner in addressing current social challenges.

Emil Vacík has been with the Faculty of Economics, Department of Finance and Accounting, since 1993. From 2018, he served as Vice-Dean for Research and Doctoral Studies. His professional focus includes strategic management, controlling, risk management, and project management. He has experience in both academic and managerial environments and is a member of university and national expert committees, boards, and councils focused on quality, strategy, and higher education development.

He will take over the position from Michaela Krechovská. “I will hand over the faculty to my successor in excellent condition — with obtained habilitation and appointment procedures, a growing number of students and applicants, financial stability, and readiness for further development,” said the current Dean.

The candidate must still be officially appointed by the Rector of UWB. If confirmed, Professor Emil Vacík will assume the four-year term of office on March 1, 2026. The Faculty of Economics currently has about 2 100 students. Among the most popular study programs are Business Economics and Management or Marketing Management. A new addition is the Management and Digital Technology program, which offers a double degree from UWB and Germany’s OTH Amberg-Weiden.