Michael Nørkjær, director at Strandmøllen A/S
“It was perhaps written in the stars that I would become the next director at Strandmøllen A/S. But there is quite a leap from a star constellation to reality and with my background in engineering and business, I was used to diving into specific tasks. However, the CEO role demanded more than technical expertise; it required strategic thinking, leadership skills and a clear understanding of what I personally wanted to stand for as a leader. That is why, in 2021, I enrolled in a Strategic Leadership Programme (SLU) at Mannaz.
The programme became a turning point in both my professional and personal development. It gave me the tools to translate long-term goals into daily activities – new, practical methods for leading employees – and it strengthened my ability to reflect on my own role both within and outside the company.
To me, the ‘leadership pipeline’ was one of the most significant teachings of the SLU programme. This tool helped me understand the importance of delegating tasks and focusing on the right strategic goals, something that has been valuable not only to me as a leader but also for coaching my employees.
At the same time, I have benefited greatly from the professional leadership network I became part of through this programme. The network has given me a unique opportunity to discuss leadership dilemmas and gain perspectives from other leaders across different industries. It has been invaluable in my daily work, where I often face complex challenges that cannot be found in textbooks. The network has created a safe space where I can share my challenges, ask questions, and receive advice from like-minded peers.
Overall, the strategic leadership programme and the associated network have given me the confidence, tools and professional know-how I need to be able to navigate the CEO role. I have not just learned to step into the role; I have learned to lead with integrity and authenticity. Now, I feel like I have the stars to guide me, the constellation to navigate by, and the clarity to chart a course towards success for Strandmøllen.”
The “Strategic Leadership Programme” focuses on you as a leader and how you work and act in a group of other leaders – with individual feedback,shadowing and sparring. Practice-oriented work is done in groups – these groups often become lifelong networks.
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