Change in the headquarters of ŽLU Novi Vinodolski: Mihael Jovanović at the head instead of Velimir Antić

New Leader Appointed at ZLU Novi Vinodolski Following Retirement of Velimir Antić NOVI VINODOLSKI, The leadership of the Zupanijska Lučka Uprava (ZLU) Novi Vinodolski has changed hands with the retirement of Velimir Antić, who served as its director since the organization’s founding in 1999. His successor, Mihael Jovanović, officially took over his duties yesterday during a handover ceremony attended by President of the Executive Board of ZLU Novi Vinodolski and parliamentary representative Saša Đujić. Jovanović assumes the role following Antić’s departure into retirement after more than two decades of service. Antić’s tenure marked a pivotal period in the development of ZLU Novi Vinodolski. Over the course of nearly 27 years, the institution evolved into a stable system managing six ports within the city of Novi Vinodolski. During this time, numerous infrastructure projects were completed, significantly enhancing security, capacity, and quality of port facilities. Among the most notable achievements include the construction of primary and secondary breakwaters, new quays in Klenovica, the building of a new breakwater in Povila, the development of the Muroskva marina, and ongoing investments in the restoration and modernization of port infrastructure. A major milestone in the organization's history was the reconstruction and expansion of the primary breakwater in the port of Novi Vinodolski, along with the redevelopment of the Podbaran waterfront. These efforts were initiated and launched under Antić’s leadership, and their completion will be among the key priorities for his successor. Đujić expressed gratitude for Antić’s long-term contributions and the impact he had on the growth of ZLU. “Velimir has laid the foundation of the ZLU. He created this institution from the very beginning and led it through many challenges, above all through a period marked by great results,” said Đujić. “The ZLU has become part of his identity, and he has been its recognizable symbol.” Đujić highlighted that their collaboration spanned two decades, during which they successfully implemented numerous projects together. “Behind us are years of intensive work, challenges, and important decisions, but above all tangible results on which we can take pride. This partnership, over time, has grown into sincere friendship, which is why this handover is especially emotional,” he added. He also noted that Antić will remain connected to the organization even after retiring, drawing upon his experience and advice. Speaking about Jovanović, Đujić emphasized that his expertise in economics, combined with extensive managerial experience and deep knowledge of ZLU operations, brings both continuity and fresh developmental energy. “This marks the completion of the largest project in the history of ZLU Novi Vinodolski, as well as a series of new developmental challenges. I believe that Mihael, with his experience and energy, will successfully continue the development of the organization and achieve projects important for citizens and users of our ports,” he stated. Among the top priorities for Jovanović will be the construction of a new administrative building for ZLU, the continued development of all ports within the city, and further modernization of operations and services for users.