What have you worked with previously?
- I have previously worked to promote Swedish exports and investment by helping Swedish companies to increase their global sales. In parallel with this, I have also helped international companies investigate investment opportunities in Sweden. I have worked both abroad and in Sweden with a focus on business development in various roles, ranging from consultant to manager.
Why did you apply to Vinnova?
- I was curious about Vinnova's activities as Sweden's innovation agency, which I came into contact with in my previous work with export and investment promotion. I felt that I wanted to work more on policy development, research and innovation at an early stage in the development cycle. At the same time, I wanted to continue working closely with other Team Sweden-aktörer, organizations and business. In addition, being able to work with international issues in the broad portfolio that Vinnova has - both in terms of activities and thematic areas - attracted me to apply for the job.
What is your role at Vinnova?
- I work as programme manager in the department for international cooperation. I follow innovation projects and create and further develop processes for international cooperation. Among other things, it deals with issues related to innovation, research, policy, trade and investments.
- We try to create conditions for collaboration between actors in Sweden and internationally. In our research and development projects, the focus is on, among other things, academia, industry, the public sector and civil society. We work with bilateral calls for proposals, strategic project and a number of other joint activities.
- Another part of my job involves handling project - the project that are the actual results of the collaborations between Swedish and international actors. These are research and development projects with a focus on societal challenges within, for example, smart cities, health, travel and transportation, circular and bio-based economy or industry and materials.
What is the best thing about your job?
- It is incredibly fun and rewarding to work with innovation, as it also gives the opportunity to influence how Sweden collaborates with other countries in this area. In the long term, one is involved in and strengthens international cooperation. I really like that it is a wide range of tasks, where I get to be involved in creating the conditions but also follow the projects during their implementation. And last but not least, the opportunity to work with all knowledgeable, forward-looking and solution-oriented people both at Vinnova and externally. Together, we can participate in and influence innovation both in Sweden and internationally - and in the long run create sustainable solutions to important societal challenges.
What does it mean to work as programme manager in an international context?
- Working as programme manager at Vinnova means trying to create the right opportunities and collaborations for research and development between Sweden and other countries. You work needs-oriented, try to find synergies and create joint project between Sweden and other countries. Therefore, it is important to also be able to create and maintain networks and relationships with contacts both in Sweden and internationally. The role is both challenging and versatile and provides an opportunity to be involved and influence important issues that drive our society forward.