RESPECT Academy Opens a New Chapter: Employee Benefits Education Draws Record Interest

For the first time in its history, RESPECT Academy was held entirely online—and for the first time, it was broadcast directly from the company’s headquarters. These innovations opened the door to participants from across the Czech Republic. The topic of employee benefits and tax optimization for 2026 resonated across industries and attracted exceptional interest from HR managers and CFOs seeking answers to one of this year’s key challenges: how to maximize the value of benefits for both the company and its employees.

 

Benefits as a Strategic Tool, Not a Cost Item
The main focus of the event was rethinking the role of employee benefits in the context of 2026. The keynote speaker, Tomáš Černý, Commercial Director of Employee Benefits at RESPECT, presented an analysis showing how well-designed benefits can move beyond being a cost and become a tool for financial optimization and building employee loyalty.
“2026 marks a turning point in how companies view human capital. The labor market is so saturated that simply increasing salaries is no longer enough to retain talent. Strategically structured benefits with a clear tax framework are now a key factor of stability, distinguishing thriving companies from those that stagnate,” said Tomáš Černý.

 

Tax Deductibility as the New Standard of Compensation
At the heart of the discussion were high-value products for both employers and employees—particularly long-term care, pension savings, and risk insurance. Their common denominator is tax deductibility and the ability to reduce the overall tax burden on both sides of the employment relationship.
“Viewing employee benefits as a pure cost is outdated. The right combination of tax-deductible products transforms mandatory expenses into a highly effective investment,” added Tomáš Černý.

 

RESPECT Academy: Know-How as a Service
RESPECT Academy has long served as an educational platform, sharing expert know-how with clients, partners, and employees. This year’s event confirmed that topics at the intersection of legislation, taxation, and HR management have strong relevance, and that companies are actively seeking partners who can help them navigate an increasingly complex environment.
“At RESPECT Academy, we don’t just deal with insurance policies—we cultivate professional awareness of corporate financial management. Our mission is to provide the know-how that enables our clients to make informed decisions and, through professional risk management, do business with confidence and peace of mind,” concluded Tomáš Černý.