#64. Quinntessential Questions with Judit Pach | From Reluctant Diplomat to Ambassador
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In this episode of The Quinntessential Questions Podcast, Paul Quinn sits down with Judit Pach, Former Ambassador of Hungary to Singapore and Indonesia, now Energy Advisor. From never wanting to be a diplomat as a child to becoming Ambassador at age 30, Judit shares her remarkable journey of unexpected opportunities and strategic reinvention.
She discusses authentic leadership built on vulnerability, the reality of diplomatic life, and why reaching the top of her diplomatic career meant facing 20-25 years with no new challenge. Judit opens up about the breaking point moment sitting on her office floor crying ("I will never be able to do this"), sixfolding trade numbers between Indonesia and Hungary, securing a $300 million electronic tolling system export and announcing a $700 million euro investment, and why "I either do the change right now or later it will be even harder" led her to transition from public service to the private sector.
Whether you're navigating career transitions, building authentic leadership, or questioning when success means choosing the harder path, this conversation offers hard-won wisdom on resilience, knowing when to reinvent, and why embracing what makes you different can become your greatest strength.
Guest Bio
Judit Pach is a former diplomat and energy sector advisor known for her leadership in international trade diplomacy and her strategic approach to career reinvention at the peak of success.
Developing a reputation as one of the most authentic and resilient leaders in diplomatic circles, Judit built a 20-year career in Hungary's public service rooted in business diplomacy, investment facilitation, and the courage to choose growth over comfort when reaching the top.
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Minutes
(02:38) Introduction
(03:38) Career Journey
(07:58) Being Selected as The Ambassador
(09:53) Ambassadors: The Epitome of Generalists
(12:46) Studying Economics & International Relations
(15:28) Difference Between The President & Prime Minister in Hungary
(17:28) Rethinking Your Wardrobe (20:03) Tackling Ageism
(25:39) Improving Memory
(27:28) Optics & Perception (31:53) Becoming The Chief of Staff
(37:28) Seeking Counsel
(39:38) Things To Do Differently (44:41) Role in Singapore
(47:43) Women in Diplomacy (49:38) Becoming a Master in Big Settings
(52:28) Going To The Private Sector
(56:53) Mental & Physical Fitness Journey
(01:03:31) Joining The Sustainability Sector
(01:06:59) Advisory Work & Projects
(01:08:07) Rapid Fire QuestionsBehind-The-Scenes
