THE BOOKLET 2019
MASTERING
CREATIVITY
LEADERS OF TODAY CONNECTING WITH LEADERS OF TOMORROW AARHUS SYMPOSIUM 1
WELCOME TO AARHUS SYMPOSIUM 2019 Dear participant at Aarhus Symposium 2019, We are both proud and excited to welcome you to the ninth consecutive Aarhus Symposium - this year under the theme, “Mastering Creativity”. Creativity is increasingly mentioned as being among the most important skills to possess. This holds true whether you are a leader of a global company or a student about to enter the labour market. It is our hope that you will leave Aarhus Symposium 2019 with a better understanding of how leaders of today and tomorrow can use creativity and intuition to develop themselves and their organisations. For this to happen, we encourage you to share your view on creativity and, in turn, let yourself be inspired by the views of your fellow participants. This year’s Organising Committee has been looking forward to November 1, 2019 ever since gathering for the first time last December. So, whether you are a student, partner, or speaker, we would like to express our gratitude to you for making this meeting between leaders of today and tomorrow possible. We wish you a pleasant and inspiring experience at Aarhus Symposium 2019. On behalf of the Organising Committee,
MORTEN HOLST
ANNE SOFIE ANDERSEN
The Steering Committee of Aarhus Symposium 2019
1
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 1, FROM 11:00 TO 19:30 PLACE Aarhus BSS, Fuglesangs Allé 4, 8210 Aarhus V, Denmark
CHECK-IN At the main entrance of the S-Building between 11:00 and 11:45
TICKET Bring the QR-code that you received by email as your ticket
2 AARHUS SYMPOSIUM
TABLE OF CONTENTS THE CONCEPTS OF AARHUS SYMPOSIUM
04
THE THEME OF AARHUS SYMPOSIUM 2019
05
THE PROGRAMME OF AARHUS SYMPOSIUM 2019
06
THE TRACKS OF AARHUS SYMPOSIUM 2019
07
PRESENTING THE SPEAKERS
12
KASPER HOLTEN
13
CHRISTIAN STADIL
14
ANDRÉ ROGACZEWSKI
15
HENRIK LUND
16
SIGNE LOPDRUP
17
HENRIK ANDERSEN
18
NINA BJERRING
19
NANA BULE
20
SUSANNE MØRCH KOCH
21
FINN POULSEN
22
MIKKEL GRENE
23
SHAPING NEW TOMORROW
24
PRESENTING THE MODERATORS
25
AARHUS SYMPOSIUM CHALLENGE 2019
26
AARHUS SYMPOSIUM FOCUS 2019
32
FOUR KEY INSIGHTS INTO CREATIVITY
34
THE PARTNERS OF AARHUS SYMPOSIUM 2019
36
THE ORGANISING COMMITTEE
38
BECOME AN ORGANISER
39
AARHUS SYMPOSIUM 3
THE CONCEPTS OF AARHUS SYMPOSIUM AARHUS SYMPOSIUM Aarhus Symposium is an event of extraordinary class with the aim of connecting students, the leaders of tomorrow, with today’s leaders and key decision-makers. To accomplish this, an annual symposium is held in the inspiring surroundings of Aarhus University. Here, speakers are invited to share their insights and experiences regarding a theme of relevance to leaders of both today and tomorrow. The participating students and speakers engage in dialogues and discussions, achieving the main purpose of the organisation: to connect leaders of today with leaders of tomorrow.
AARHUS SYMPOSIUM FOCUS Aarhus Symposium Focus zooms in on a national perspective on the overall theme of Aarhus Symposium. At Aarhus Symposium Focus, leaders of today and leaders of tomorrow engage in discussion about a topic reflecting some of Denmark’s most important challenges. Aarhus Symposium Focus takes place on Monday in the week of Aarhus Symposium. Speakers at Aarhus Symposium Focus allow students to gain key insights on a theme of national interest, offering the most curious students an opportunity to delve deeper into the theme of Aarhus Symposium.
AARHUS SYMPOSIUM CHALLENGE Aarhus Symposium Challenge is an essay competition with the purpose of ensuring that the seats for Aarhus Symposium and Aarhus Symposium Focus are given to the most ambitious students. Since 2017, all participants at Aarhus Symposium and Aarhus Symposium Focus have contributed with their thoughts by submitting an essay. The students who submit the most innovative and extraordinary essays are invited to Leaders’ Forum. Here, they have the unique opportunity to engage in a dialogue with the leader whose challenge they have addressed.
4 AARHUS SYMPOSIUM
FOCUS
MASTERING CREATIVITY THE THEME OF AARHUS SYMPOSIUM 2019 When was the last time you were creative? For
challenges of tomorrow, it is more often used
many, creativity is a concept reserved for child-
as a way to stand out. Whether it is a musician
hood play; for a time when we were not afraid
making genre-defining music or an entrepre-
to paint outside the lines.
neur challenging business as usual, creativity is frequently the driving force behind creating
As we grow up, the importance of developing
change. To unlock the full potential of people’s
our imagination is often neglected. However,
creative skills, leaders must place creativity at
when we dare to use new colours, we increase
the centre of their organisation. By moving be-
the potential of the canvas at hand. Thus, mas-
yond previously defined motifs, leaders enable
tering creativity has proven key to excel as a
their organisation to turn their resources into
leader, company, or even nation.
growth.
No matter what canvas is available, leaders must look beyond existing frameworks to adapt
When leaders dare to paint outside the lines,
to an increasingly complex future. Environmen-
they push the limits of what was previously
tal changes, increased digitalisation, and shift-
possible. However, pushing the limits should
ing political climates cannot be ignored as lead-
only be pursued if done so in the right direction.
ers form their vision for the future.
Leaders must know when to act on their creative impulses and when to build on the status
On an individual level, demanding challenges
quo; they must learn to master creativity.
are set to alter the way we live and work. In the face of automation, people must master what
At Aarhus Symposium 2019, leaders of today
technology cannot. To stay competitive, intu-
and leaders of tomorrow will explore how us-
ition and creative thinking will be essential as
ing creative capabilities can turn challenges into
individuals shift into the future of work.
changes. We encourage you to join the discus-
While creativity is needed to withstand the
sion on November 1, 2019.
THE TRACKS OF AARHUS SYMPOSIUM 2019
CREATIVE MINDS
CREATIVE ORGANISATIONS
CREATIVE SKILLS
CREATIVE SOLUTIONS AARHUS SYMPOSIUM 5
THE PROGRAMME OF AARHUS SYMPOSIUM 2019 11:00
ARRIVAL
12:00
WELCOME TO AARHUS SYMPOSIUM 2019
12:30
SESSION 1
13:30
BREAK WITH ARLA FOODS
14:00
SESSION 2
15:00
BREAK WITH THE VELUX GROUP
15:30
SESSION 3
16:30
BREAK WITH JYSKE BANK
17:00
SESSION 4
18:00
THE AARHUS SYMPOSIUM AWARD
18:30
A BITE TO EAT & NETWORKING
6 AARHUS SYMPOSIUM
UPPER S-BUILDING
LOWER S-BUILDING
UPPER S-BUILDING & UPPER M-BUILDING
UPPER S-BUILDING & LOWER M-BUILDING
UPPER S-BUILDING & UPPER M-BUILDING
LOWER S-BUILDING
UPPER S-BUILDING & UPPER M-BUILDING
SESSION OVERVIEW CREATIVE MINDS
CREATIVE SOLUTIONS
CREATIVE SKILLS
CREATIVE ORGANISATIONS
KASPER HOLTEN
HENRIK LUND
HENRIK ANDERSEN
DIRECTOR, THE ROYAL DANISH THEATRE
CEO, NATURLI’ FOODS
CEO, VESTAS
CHRISTIAN STADIL
NINA BJERRING
FINN POULSEN
CEO & CO-FOUNDER, THORNICO
CHIEF TRANSFORMATION OFFICER, ARLA FOODS
CEO, CO-FOUNDER, & PARTNER, BESTSELLER RETAIL EUROPE
ANDRÉ ROGACZEWSKI
NANA BULE
MIKKEL GRENE
CEO & CO-FOUNDER, NETCOMPANY
CEO, MICROSOFT DENMARK
CEO, SØSTRENE GRENE
THE FOUNDERS OF
SIGNE LOPDRUP
SUSANNE MØRCH KOCH
SHAPING NEW TOMMOROW
CEO, ROSKILDE FESTIVAL
CEO, DANSKE SPIL
AARHUS SYMPOSIUM 7
THE TRACKS OF AARHUS SYMPOSIUM 2019
CREATIVE MINDS Every day, we see creativity unfold around us. It materialises as extraordinary music, beautiful furniture, or outstanding performing arts. Behind every unique idea lies an abstract, creative process. As a result of its complexity, creativity is often considered as reserved for a chosen few. Yet, all individuals express their creative capabilities every day as they make decisions, form opinions, and interact with one another By enhancing creative competencies, anyone can create transformative results. How do creative minds structure their train of thought to go beyond existing solutions and produce original outcomes?
SPEAKERS
KASPER HOLTEN
CHRISTIAN STADIL
ANDRÉ ROGACZEWSKI
THE FOUNDERS OF
DIRECTOR, THE ROYAL DANISH THEATRE
CEO & CO-FOUNDER, THORNICO
CEO & CO-FOUNDER, NETCOMPANY
SHAPING NEW TOMMOROW
M2 AUDITORIUM 12:30 - 13:30
LOWER S AUDITORIUM 14:00 - 15:00
LOWER S AUDITORIUM 15:30 - 16:30
M2 AUDITORIUM 17:00 - 18:00
MODERATORS
ULRIK HAAGERUP
SIMON RICHARD NIELSEN
NINA MUNCH-PERRIN
JAKOB ILLEBORG
CEO & FOUNDER, CONSTRUCTIVE INSTITUTE
INSIGHTS EDITOR, FINANSWATCH
NEWS ANCHOR, DR
ANCHOR, DISCOVERY NETWORKS
8 AARHUS SYMPOSIUM
THE TRACKS OF AARHUS SYMPOSIUM 2019
CREATIVE SOLUTIONS If you could build a better world, what kind of world would you build? Our world faces urgent challenges spanning from climate change and overpopulation, to escalating trade conflicts and technological transformations. Our existing toolbox is inadequate to approach these concerns. Rather, leaders must look at new ways to build a better future. Creativity enables us to expand our scope of possibilities, and it will therefore be an essential component when constructing new, sustainable solutions. How can leaders let creativity be a building block to a better future?
SPEAKERS
HENRIK LUND
CHRISTIAN STADIL
ANDRÉ ROGACZEWSKI
SIGNE LOPDRUP
CEO, NATURLI’ FOODS
CEO & CO-FOUNDER, THORNICO
CEO & CO-FOUNDER, NETCOMPANY
CEO, ROSKILDE FESTIVAL
M3 AUDITORIUM 12:30 - 13:30
LOWER S AUDITORIUM 14:00 - 15:00
LOWER S AUDITORIUM 15:30 - 16:30
M3 AUDITORIUM 17:00 - 18:00
MODERATORS
SIMON RICHARD NIELSEN
NINA MUNCH-PERRIN
JAKOB ILLEBORG
INSIGHTS EDITOR, FINANSWATCH
NEWS ANCHOR, DR
ANCHOR, DISCOVERY NETWORKS
AARHUS SYMPOSIUM 9
THE TRACKS OF AARHUS SYMPOSIUM 2019
CREATIVE SKILLS Companies and organisations gain new insights and experiences every day. When handled properly, failures today can be opportunities to learn and achieve success in the future. Leaders must make a conscious effort to draw on the lessons learned from previous experiences. Furthermore, the need to learn does not solely apply to organisations. Individuals too should seize opportunities to develop. By constantly learning, they mitigate the risk of falling behind in an uncertain world. How can leaders help create a base of knowledge allowing better and more effective decisions in the future?
SPEAKERS
HENRIK ANDERSEN
NINA BJERRING
NANA BULE
SUSANNE MØRCH KOCH
CEO, VESTAS
CHIEF TRANSFORMATION OFFICER, ARLA FOODS
CEO, MICROSOFT DENMARK
CEO, DANSKE SPIL
LOWER S AUDITORIUM 12:30 - 13:30
M3 AUDITORIUM 14:00 - 15:00
M3 AUDITORIUM 15:30 - 16:30
LOWER S AUDITORIUM 17:00 - 18:00
MODERATORS
10 AARHUS SYMPOSIUM
SIMON RICHARD NIELSEN
PERNILLE ENGGAARD
NINA MUNCH-PERRIN
INSIGHTS EDITOR, FINANSWATCH
HOST & PROGRAMME PLANNER, ‘MILLIONÆRKLUBBEN’, RADIO24SYV
NEWS ANCHOR, DR
THE TRACKS OF AARHUS SYMPOSIUM 2019
CREATIVE ORGANISATIONS To utilise the full potential of their employees, leaders need to establish a solid foundation on which creativity can prosper. It is not sufficient simply to hire creative people. Leaders must reward novel initiatives and encourage their employees to challenge day-to-day routines. By doing so, they can create an engaging environment and enable inventive thinking. When creativity is deeply rooted in an organisation, it allows employees to take risks and create distinctive ideas. How can leaders efficiently break down rigid structures and place creativity at the core of daily processes?
SPEAKERS
HENRIK ANDERSEN
FINN POULSEN
MIKKEL GRENE
SUSANNE MØRCH KOCH
CEO, VESTAS
CEO, CO-FOUNDER, & PARTNER BESTSELLER RETAIL EUROPE
CEO, SØSTRENE GRENE
CEO, DANSKE SPIL
LOWER S AUDITORIUM 12:30 - 13:30
M2 AUDITORIUM 14:00 - 15:00
M2 AUDITORIUM 15:30 - 16:30
LOWER S AUDITORIUM 17:00 - 18:00
MODERATORS
SIMON RICHARD NIELSEN
PERNILLE ENGGAARD
ULRIK HAAGERUP
INSIGHTS EDITOR, FINANSWATCH
HOST & PROGRAMME PLANNER, ‘MILLIONÆRKLUBBEN’, RADIO24SYV
FOUNDER & CEO, CONSTRUCTIVE INSTITUTE
AARHUS SYMPOSIUM 11
PRESENTING THE SPEAKERS
12 AARHUS SYMPOSIUM
KASPER HOLTEN
DIRECTOR, THE ROYAL DANISH THEATRE
CAREER
BORN 1973
NIELS STEENSENS GYMNASIUM
1994
1996 - 2000
ARTISTIC DIRECTOR, THE ROYAL DANISH OPERA 2000 - 2011
TRACK
ARTISTIC DIRECTOR, AARHUS SOMMEROPERA
2018 - TODAY
2011 - 2017
DIRECTOR, THE ROYAL DANISH THEATRE
DIRECTOR OF OPERA, ROYAL OPERA HOUSE COVENT GARDEN, LONDON
CREATIVE MINDS
DID YOU KNOW?
KASPER HOLTEN…
THE ROYAL DANISH THEATRE…
Is a self-taught stage director, having directed 80 operas and plays, one feature film, and written two books
Is Denmark’s national home for the performing arts, including opera, ballet, drama, and symphonic music
Is adjunct professor at Copenhagen Business School, has received a Danish Knighthood and has won several Danish Theatre Awards
Has been a focal point for both classic and modern artists for more than 250 years
Is an internationally acknowledged stage director as he often takes risks and challenges prevailing interpretations of classics
Welcomed nearly 750,000 spectators in 2018 while their online videos average around 5 million yearly views
AARHUS SYMPOSIUM 13
CHRISTIAN STADIL CEO & CO-FOUNDER, THORNICO
CAREER
BORN 1971
HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA, HERLUFSHOLM
1989
TRACKS
CREATIVE SOLUTIONS
CREATIVE MINDS
1990 – 1992
1990 – TODAY
SERGEANT, THE ROYAL LIFE GUARDS
CEO & CO-FOUNDER, THORNICO
DID YOU KNOW?
CHRISTIAN STADIL…
THORNICO…
Co-authored the book, “In the shower with Picasso”, which explores how to develop and apply creative skills
Is a conglomerate of more than 120 companies from a wide range of industries including fashion, shipping, and technology
Invested in and mentored a broad range of successful firms, among others Libertine-Libertine, Firtal Group, and hummel
Operates under the philosophy of “Company Karma”, which seeks to create meaningful value for all its stakeholders
Is a member of the Danish think tank, Big Future, which aims to promote sustainable growth for businesses
Has, among other charity projects, facilitated football schools and festivals to make a positive change in Sierra Leone
14 AARHUS SYMPOSIUM
ANDRÉ ROGACZEWSKI CEO & CO-FOUNDER, NETCOMPANY
CAREER
MSC IN COMPUTER SCIENCE, AALBORG UNIVERSITY
BORN 1968
1993
MANAGER, ACCENTURE
CO-FOUNDER & PARTNER, NETCOMPANY
1993 – 2000
2000 – 2013
TRACKS 2014 – TODAY
CHAIRMAN, DANISH FOUNDATION FOR ENTREPRENEURSHIP & TEKNOLOGIPAGTRÅDET
2016 – TODAY
2018 - TODAY CEO, NETCOMPANY
CREATIVE SOLUTIONS
CHAIRMAN, DANISH INDUSTRY DIGITAL
CREATIVE MINDS
DID YOU KNOW?
ANDRÉ ROGACZEWSKI…
NETCOMPANY…
Is a passionate advocate of digital development as the foundation of economic growth
Develops and implements IT solutions for prominent clients such as CPH Airports and the Danish Ministry of Taxation
Seeks to get more Danish students interested in pursuing educations within IT and Technology
Is the first Danish company in more than 20 years to reach 1,000 employees and has since exceeded twice the size of that
Started programming at a young age, where he developed games to avoid paying at the gaming arcade
Has won “EY Entrepreneur of The Year” twice in the category “Growth DK”, most recently in 2018
AARHUS SYMPOSIUM 15
HENRIK LUND CEO, NATURLI´ FOODS
CAREER
HIGHER COMMERCIAL EXAMINATION
BORN 1972
1992
KEY ACCOUNT MANAGER, ROYAL GREENLAND
2005 – 2008
2008 – 2010
TRACK
KEY ACCOUNT MANAGER, DANAEG
CREATIVE SOLUTIONS
2010 – 2017
2016 – TODAY
RETAIL MANAGER, DRAGSBÆK
CEO, NATURLI´ FOODS
DID YOU KNOW?
HENRIK LUND…
NATURLI´ FOODS…
Is a front runner in shifting eating habits towards meat-free alternatives
Was founded in 1988 with a mission to change the way we perceive food
Is vegan and wishes to counter climate changes by distributing plant-based food to a broader audience
Achieved 700% export growth in 2018 by creatively tapping into the global trend of plant-based alternatives
Led Naturli´ Foods to record earnings in 2018 and plans to grow further by taking on the United States next
Challenges long-established food products through sustainable product innovation
16 AARHUS SYMPOSIUM
SIGNE LOPDRUP CEO, ROSKILDE FESTIVAL
CAREER
MA IN LITERATURE & MODERN CULTURE STUDIES, UNIVERSITY OF COPENHAGEN
BORN 1968
1999
FESTIVAL MANAGER, COPENHAGEN JAZZ FESTIVAL
COO, ROSKILDE FESTIVAL
2002 – 2012
2013 – 2016
TRACK CHAIRMAN OF THE SUPERVISORY BOARD, RHYTHMIC MUSIC CONSERVATORY
2016 – TODAY
2017 – TODAY
2018 – TODAY CEO, ROSKILDE FESTIVAL
CREATIVE SOLUTIONS
CHAIRMAN OF THE SUPERVISORY BOARD, NATIONAL GALLERY OF DENMARK
DID YOU KNOW?
SIGNE LOPDRUP…
ROSKILDE FESTIVAL…
Grew up in a cohousing community, which laid the foundation to her leadership style based on trust and collaboration
Is the largest music festival in Northern Europe with more than 130,000 participants, making it the fourth largest Danish city while it takes place
Has 15 years of experience within music, culture, and festivals, and has previously led the legendary music venue, Jazzhouse
Redistributes all its earnings to initiatives benefitting young people and humanitarian work
Manages superstar musicians and more than 30,000 volunteers, while continuously reinventing the festival experience for its guests
Has hosted some of the world’s biggest stars through history, including Bob Dylan, Nirvana, and Rihanna
AARHUS SYMPOSIUM 17
HENRIK ANDERSEN CEO, VESTAS
CAREER
MASTER IN LAW, AARHUS UNIVERSITY
BORN 1967
1997
VARIOUS POSITIONS, ISS
CORPORATE DIRECTOR, JYSKE BANK
2000 – 2013
1990 – 1999
TRACKS CEO, HEMPEL
2018 – TODAY
2016 – 2019
CREATIVE SKILLS
CREATIVE ORGANISATIONS
CEO, VESTAS
2019 – TODAY BOARD MEMBER, LUNDBECK
DID YOU KNOW?
HENRIK ANDERSEN…
VESTAS...
Joined Vestas’ Board in 2013, where he started as Group Chief Executive Officer and President of Vestas on August 1, 2019
Is a world-leading provider of sustainable energy solutions and has installed more than 100 GW of wind energy across the globe
Worked as Group President and CEO at Hempel A/S after having spent more than 15 years with ISS A/S, a global leader in facility services
Has played a central role in positioning Denmark as a global front runner in the green transition
Has previously held leadership positions in the UK and Denmark, including Group CFO and COO EMEA
According to Boston Consulting Group, Vestas was the world’s most value creating company of 2018 in their industry
18 AARHUS SYMPOSIUM
NINA BJERRING
CHIEF TRANSFORMATION OFFICER, ARLA FOODS
CAREER
MSC IN INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS, AARHUS UNIVERSITY
BORN 1976
1999
MANAGER, CORPORATE STRATEGY & SUPPORT, LEGO GROUP
SENIOR MANAGER, CORPORATE STRATEGY, ARLA FOODS
2002 – 2005
2006 – 2010
TRACK 2018 – TODAY
VICE PRESIDENT, GLOBAL PRODUCT MANAGEMENT, ARLA FOODS
2010 – 2011
2016 – 2018 CHIEF TRANSFORMATION OFFICER, ARLA FOODS
CREATIVE SKILLS
SALES & OPERATIONS PLANNING RESPONSIBLE, ARLA FOODS
DID YOU KNOW?
NINA BJERRING...
ARLA FOODS...
Is the driving force behind Arla’s extensive transformation programme, Calcium, set out to deliver +400 mEUR net savings by 2021
Is the world’s largest producer of organic dairy and is entirely owned by more than 10,000 farmers
Initiated a new Sales and Operations planning process, which greatly increased collaboration and transparency in decision making across Arla
Recently announced an ambitious climate goal to be carbon net zero by 2050
Was promoted to Vice President at Arla while on maternity leave, and is a strong advocate of diversity and balancing a fast-paced career with personal goals and priorities
Is currently undergoing a major transformation set to secure Arla’s world leading position in generations to come
AARHUS SYMPOSIUM 19
NANA BULE
CEO, MICROSOFT DENMARK
CAREER
IT STRATEGY & IT PROJECT MANAGEMENT, IT UNIVERSITY OF COPENHAGEN
BORN 1978
2002
CMO & COO, MICROSOFT DENMARK
2002 – 2016
2016 – 2019
TRACK
VARIOUS POSITIONS, MICROSOFT DENMARK
BOARD MEMBER, ENERGINET
2019 – TODAY
CEO, MICROSOFT DENMARK
2018 – TODAY
CREATIVE SKILLS
2019 – TODAY
BOARD MEMBER, DANISH INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION
DID YOU KNOW?
NANA BULE...
MICROSOFT...
Is deeply passionate about the advancement of digitisation in Denmark to the benefit of our society and the economy
Has transformed from supplying Windows and Office to +1.2 billion people in the world, to becoming the platform that empowers companies in the digital era
Is an avid advocate of tech start-ups, and a familiar face in the start-up ecosystem, serving as Board Chair of AI-based Motosumo and member of Copenhagen FinTech Global Advisory Board
Is an active advocate on public policy matters like protecting consumer privacy and establishing ethical guidelines for artificial intelligence
Is a proud role model for “Women in Tech”
Is currently the world’s most valuable publicly traded company
20 AARHUS SYMPOSIUM
SUSANNE MØRCH KOCH
CEO, DANSKE SPIL
CAREER
MSC IN BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION AND MODERN LANGUAGES, COPENHAGEN BUSINESS SCHOOL
BORN 1973
1999
BID DIRECTOR, DSB
1999 – 2002
2006 – 2007
TRACKS
MANAGEMENT CONSULTANT, MCKINSEY & COMPANY
2017 – TODAY
2016 – TODAY
2008 – 2016
CEO, DANSKE SPIL
BOARD MEMBER, COOP DENMARK & SCANDIC HOTEL GROUP
VARIOUS POSITIONS, DSB
CREATIVE SKILLS
CREATIVE ORGANISATIONS
DID YOU KNOW?
SUSANNE MØRCH KOCH…
DANSKE SPIL…
Has led DSB through the groundbreaking implementation of a new digital ticketing system and Rejsekortet
Is the largest Danish betting and lottery company, co-owned by the Danish government and two sports associations
Appeared on Berlingske’s list of the top 100 most influential Danish women in 2018
Distributed more than one billion DKK of their profits to a broad range of Danish nonprofit associations in 2018 alone
Successfully led Danske Spil through a major digital transformation to achieve record earnings and increased market shares
Was awarded “Digital Company of the Year” at Danish Digital Awards in 2019, due to their successful digital transformation
AARHUS SYMPOSIUM 21
FINN POULSEN
CEO, CO-FOUNDER, & PARTNER, BESTSELLER RETAIL EUROPE
CAREER
CEO, BESTSELLER
BORN 1961
1985 – 2001
1989 – TODAY
TRACK
BOARD MEMBER, BESTSELLER
CREATIVE ORGANISATIONS
2001 – TODAY
2012 – TODAY
CEO, CO-FOUNDER, & PARTNER, BESTSELLER RETAIL EUROPE
DIRECTOR, ONLY
DID YOU KNOW?
FINN POULSEN…
BESTELLER RETAIL EUROPE…
Has been an integral part of the strategic development in BESTSELLER for the past 36 years
Was established in 1991, and is today a partnership between Anders Holch Povlsen and Finn Poulsen
Is highly active within the Danish cultural scene serving on the board of several important organisations, including the Danish Broadcasting Corporation from 2007-2015
Owns and operates 750 ONLY across Europe, and in 2018, they opened a new store every other day and continue to do so
Co-founded “Professional Cycling Denmark”, which later won Tour de France several times under the leadership of Bjarne Riis
Recently implemented a new successful strategy, which has led to record earnings and an expectation of reaching 1,000 stores by 2022
22 AARHUS SYMPOSIUM
MIKKEL GRENE
CEO, SØSTRENE GRENE
CAREER
BORN 1972
MARKETING & SALES MANAGER, SØSTRENE GRENE 1995 – 2002
COO, SØSTRENE GRENE
2002 – 2010
TRACK 2012 – TODAY
2011 – 2012
CEO, SØSTRENE GRENE
VICE PRESIDENT, SØSTRENE GRENE
CREATIVE ORGANISATIONS
DID YOU KNOW?
MIKKEL GRENE…
SØSTRENE GRENE…
Carries on his parents’ innovative business concept with his brother Cresten Grene, the Creative Director at Søstrene Grene
Was established in 1973 and sells Scandinavian design, stationery, and home accessories in its stores all around the world
Has been employed at Søstrene Grene since 1995 where he has gained valuable insight into several crucial job functions
Has in the last three years doubled their revenue, opened 138 stores, and expanded to eight new markets
Successfully led Søstrene Grene to record high growth without compromising its core values and creative spirit
Has one of the most popular Danish Facebook pages with more than 2.1 million followers
AARHUS SYMPOSIUM 23
KASPER ULRICH, CHRISTIAN AACHMANN, & CHRISTOFFER BAK CO-FOUNDERS, SHAPING NEW TOMORROW
CAREER
TRACK
CINEMATOGRAPHER, FREELANCE
CMO & CO-FOUNDER, SHAPING NEW TOMMOROW
2012 – 2015
2015 – TODAY
CEO & CO-FOUNDER, SHAPING NEW TOMORROW
CIO & CO-FOUNDER, SHAPING NEW TOMORROW
2015 – TODAY
2015 – TODAY
2018
PROFESSIONAL BACHELOR’S DEGREE IN INTERNATIONAL SALES & MARKETING, UNIVERSITY COLLEGE OF NORTHERN DENMARK 2019
MSC IN INNOVATION AND MANAGEMENT, AALBORG UNIVERSITY
CREATIVE MINDS
KASPER ULRICH
CHRISTIAN AACHMANN
CHRISTOFFER BAK
DID YOU KNOW? KASPER ULRICH, CHRISTIAN AACHMANN, & CHRISTOFFER BAK…
SHAPING NEW TOMORROW…
Are childhood friends who came up with the idea for Shaping New Tomorrow as they needed comfortable pants you could wear for all occasions
Is a Danish fashion start-up that specialises in design and sale of clothes with extraordinary comfort and fit
Secured funding and nationwide publicity after participating in the Danish entrepreneur television series, “Løvernes Hule”
Is proclaimed by renowned entrepreneur, Jesper Buch, to be among his best investments ever
Are, despite their young age, highly talented in all aspects of their business; from leadership to product design, sales, and marketing
Saw impressive growth in 2018 as they expanded to Germany and Sweden and opened their second store in the heart of Copenhagen
24 AARHUS SYMPOSIUM
PRESENTING THE MODERATORS SIMON RICHARD NIELSEN INSIGHTS EDITOR, FINANSWATCH (2019 – PRESENT)
FORMER OCCUPATIONS Anchor, TV2 NEWS (2016 – 2019) Partner, Capital Relations (2009 – 2016) Financial Editor, Børsen (2008 – 2009) Analyst, Correspondent, & Journalist, Børsen (2000 – 2008)
PERNILLE ENGGAARD HOST & PROGRAMME PLANNER, ‘MILLIONÆRKLUBBEN’, RADIO24SYV (2011 – PRESENT)
FORMER OCCUPATIONS Business Magazine Host, TV2 News (2014-2019) Communication Consultant, RelationsPeople (2002 – 2007) Business Journalist, Børsen (1999 – 2001)
NINA MUNCH-PERRIN NEWS ANCHOR, DR (2018 – PRESENT)
FORMER OCCUPATIONS Director of Communications, Finans Danmark (2015 – 2018) Chief Business Correspondent, DR (2012 – 2015) Financial Reporter, Børsen (2012 – 2012) Financial News Anchor, TV2 News (2006 – 2011)
JAKOB ILLEBORG
ANCHOR, DISCOVERY NETWORKS (2019 – PRESENT) LONDON CORRESPONDENT, DAGBLADET INFORMATION (2019-PRESENT)
FORMER OCCUPATIONS Anchor, DR KONTANT (2014 – 2018) Anchor, DR (2013 – 2014) Global Correspondent, DR (2011 – 2013)
ULRIK HAAGERRUP FOUNDER & CEO, CONSTRUCTIVE INSTITUTE (2017 – PRESENT)
FORMER OCCUPATIONS Head of News, DR (2007 – 2017) Editor-in-chief, NORDJYSKE Medier (2002 – 2007) Editor-in-chief, Jyllands-Posten (1994 – 2002)
AARHUS SYMPOSIUM 25
AARHUS SYMPOSIUM
CHALLENGE 2019
Aarhus Symposium Challenge is the students’ chance to truly engage in this year’s Aarhus Symposium and Aarhus Symposium Focus. Students can inspire and interact with the leaders of today by sharing their thoughts on one of three challenges relating to this year’s theme, “Mastering Creativity”. The essay competition was first introduced in 2013 to further Aarhus Symposium’s mission of connecting leaders of today with leaders of tomorrow and allow the participating students to let their voices be heard.
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PARTICIPATING SPEAKERS This year, three challenges were put forward by three of the speakers at Aarhus Symposium 2019: Andre Rogaczewski, Susanne Mørch Koch, and Henrik Andersen. In addition to securing their seats, the authors of the most innovative and inspiring essay contributions earn an exclusive spot in Leaders’ Forum. Here, they discuss their thoughts in depth with the speaker who put forward the challenges.
ANDRÉ ROGACZEWSKI
SUSANNE MØRCH KOCH
HENRIK ANDERSEN
CEO & CO-FOUNDER, NETCOMPANY
CEO, DANSKE SPIL
CEO, VESTAS
THE AARHUS SYMPOSIUM AWARD Each year, the author of the most outstanding essay is rewarded with the Aarhus Symposium Award on stage at Aarhus Symposium. All winners of the award have submitted truly extraordinary essays containing groundbreaking solutions to the respective challenges.
2016
2017
2018
LUKE MCGINTY
BASTIAN EMIL JØRGENSEN
SORAYA REDONDO
AARHUS SYMPOSIUM 27
STUDENTS PARTICIPATING IN AARHUS SYMPOSIUM CHALLENGE LAUNCH 2019
LEADERS’ FORUM AARHUS SYMPOSIUM CHALLENGE Leaders’ Forum is the ultimate experience of Aarhus
prepare you for the session by providing you with tools
Symposium. This is your opportunity to engage directly
which helps you to engage with the speakers. As you will
with the leader whose challenge you have addressed in
experience, these skills will indeed be useful for your ac-
your essay. Only the students behind the best essays are
ademic work as well as your future professional career.
invited to participate in this one-hour session with a key personality within their field. Furthermore, you will gain
ACCESS TO CORPORATE LOUNGE
valuable insights into how leaders seize creativity within
As a Leaders’ Forum participant, you will also gain access
the complex, connected world of today.
to the exclusive Corporate Lounge at Aarhus Symposium 2019. Here, you have the unique chance to network and
In Leaders’ Forum 2018, Soraya Redondo Mezmizi, Mas-
mingle with this year’s speakers and representatives from
ter in Law, Copenhagen University, met with Ulrik Juul
some of the biggest Danish and international companies.
Christensen, Co-Founder & Executive Chairman at Area9 Group. After the session, she stated: “During the hour,
When Soraya was asked if she would recommend it to
you engage in a stimulating tête-à-tête in which you not only
other students, she stated: “I encourage any student to come
learn from the speaker, but also from your fellow students who
to this incredible event with an open mind and to enjoy every
provided other solutions and perspectives to the challenge you
single talk, every single conversation, and every single moment
altogether addressed.“ In addition, Soraya won the Aarhus
before the day slips away too fast. Smile, engage, network, and
Symposium Award 2018 with her original and inspiring
savour it! Because Aarhus Symposium is a day to get inspired,
essay where she discussed how adaptive learning tech-
to dream about progress, and a day to remember.”
nology can help students develop soft skills. WORKSHOP WITH MCKINSEY & COMPANY The day before Aarhus Symposium, our Knowledge Partner, McKinsey & Company, will host a workshop for all Leaders’ Forum participants. Here, the consultants will
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MEET OUR PARTNERS Three of our Premium Partners invite a selected number of ambitious students to participate in their exclusive A Day At events. This year, the students behind the best essays will have the opportunity to visit either the VELUX Group, the LEGO Group, or Jyske Bank. When the best essay contributions are selected, our Premium Partners invite the students to an interesting and challenging experience at their facilities.
A DAY AT THE VELUX GROUP This year the global leader of roof window manufacturing, the VELUX Group, will welcome dedicated students for an exciting day at their facilities in Østbirk. The students will meet with passionate VELUX people, be challenged in a real life case, and get a tour in the VELUX Test Center. All this to get an inside perspective on how the VELUX Group creates better living environments by bringing daylight and fresh air into people’s homes through the roof.
A DAY AT THE LEGO GROUP For the very first time in the history of Aarhus Symposium, the LEGO Group, invites a number of ambitious students to visit their headquarters in Billund. The visit will take place shortly after Aarhus Symposium 2019 in their brand-new LEGO® Campus. The participants will experience the creativity that is deeply ingrained in the workspaces and ways of working of the LEGO Group, whose constant focus is to bring Learning-through-Play experiences to even more children around the world.
A DAY AT JYSKE BANK Once again, Jyske Bank, one of the largest financial institutions in Denmark, invites the best essay contributors to “A Day At Jyske Bank”. Shortly after Aarhus Symposium 2019, ambitious students can join Jyske Bank for an interesting day at their headquarters in Silkeborg. Here, students will get a unique insight into their job opportunities in the banking business through job shadowing and relevant workshops.
AARHUS SYMPOSIUM 31
AARHUS SYMPOSIUM
FOCUS 2019 Aarhus Symposium Focus is an enlightening event taking place on Monday evening in the week of Aarhus Symposium. The purpose of Aarhus Symposium Focus is to engage leaders of today with leaders of tomorrow in a discussion on solutions to Denmark’s most important challenges. Speakers with national and academic insights are invited to share their knowledge about this year’s theme, ”Denmark as a Creative Superpower“, offering interested students the opportunity to delve deeper into the overall theme of Aarhus Symposium, “Mastering Creativity”. Throughout the evening, the audience is encouraged to take part in the discussion and challenge the leaders of today.
FOCUS
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DENMARK AS A CREATIVE SUPERPOWER THE THEME OF AARHUS SYMPOSIUM FOCUS 2019 Denmark ranks among the topmost creative nations in the world. We have a rich history within areas such as design, architecture, and entrepreneurship. In a world of constant technological development and fierce competition, creative thinking is key for individuals, businesses, and even entire countries. To keep prospering from our creativity, it is crucial that we act on the opportunities at hand. As creativity becomes increasingly important, the labour market of tomorrow will demand people with creative minds and skill sets to a greater extent than ever before. Hence, it could prove paramount to master innovative traits to meet the demand for creativity in future work. But what specific competencies must individuals and organisations focus on to remain competitive? Is creative thinking an innate ability, or can we acquire this quality throughout our lives? For creativity to become a value driver, organisations must find themselves in an environment that encourages innovation. One example is through the exchange of ideas between universities and businesses, which could have synergistic effects on idea generation and value creation. Should the government intervene through education and subsidies targeted at the creative industries? Or should it adopt a more passive role for achieving a long-term creative advantage? At Aarhus Symposium Focus 2019, we invite you to join the discussion of Denmark as a creative hub. How can workers, organisations, and policymakers of today use creativity to thrive in the business world of tomorrow? How can we consolidate Denmark’s position as a creative superpower?
AARHUS SYMPOSIUM 33
FOUR KEY INSIGHTS INTO CREATIVITY
The Danish creative sector is defined by industries such as media, entertainment, fashion, design, and architecture. Around 145,000 people are employed in these industries.
1
2
According to the Global Creativity Index (GCI), Denmark consistently ranks among the most creative nations in the world, ranking 5th in 2015.
In 2016, the creative industries reached revenues of 327 BILLION DKK or approximately 8.3% of total private sector revenues in that year.
3
4
THE GLOBAL CREATIVITY INDEX MAP
1-10
MOST CREATIVE
20-30
30-40
40-60
80-100
Sources: 1. Richard Florida Charlotta Mellander, Karen King (2015). _The global creativity index 2015_. Martin Prosperity Institute 2. Dansk Erhverv, 2017, “Vækst i de kreative erhverv” 34 AARHUS SYMPOSIUM
100+
LEAST CREATIVE
PRESENTING THE SPEAKERS OF AARHUS SYMPOSIUM FOCUS 2019 LENE TANGGAARD PROFESSOR & VICE HEAD OF DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATION AND PSYCHOLOGY, AALBORG UNIVERSITY
FORMER OCCUPATIONS Member of the Council for Professionalism in Danish High Schools, Ministry of Education (2018) Vice Head of Department of Communication & Psychology, Aalborg University (2016 - Today) Professor, Aalborg University (2008 - Today)
BO LINNEMANN OWNER & FOUNDING PARTNER, KONTRAPUNKT
FORMER OCCUPATIONS Executive Design Director, Kontrapunkt (1985 - Today) Member of the Danish Design Council (1995 - Today) Professor, Royal Academy of Fine Arts, School of Design (1996 - 1998) Visiting Professor, Musashino Art University, Tokyo (2006 - Today)
ELISABETTA LAZZARO PROFESSOR OF CREATIVE ECONOMY, HKU UNIVERSITY OF THE ARTS UTRECHT
FORMER OCCUPATIONS External Economist, European Commission (2006-2007) Adjunct Professor & Research Fellow of Cultural Economics & Marketing, Padua University (2005-2009) Assistant Professor of Arts Management & Arts Entrepreneurship, Southern Methodist University (2009-2012)
BETINA HAGERUP DIRECTOR OF MARKETS, THE DANISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE (DANSK ERHVERV)
FORMER OCCUPATIONS Executive Vice President, KMD (2017-2019) Director, The Danish Business Authority (Erhvervsstyrelsen) (2012-2017) Member of the Board, The Danish Government’s Center for Competency Development (2011-2013)
AARHUS SYMPOSIUM 35
THE PARTNERS OF AARHUS SYMPOSIUM 2019 PREMIUM PARTNERS
SUPPORTING ORGANISATIONS
MARKETING PARTNER
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KNOWLEDGE PARTNER
DATA SCIENCE PARTNER
HR PARTNER
PRODUCT PARTNERS
F U R
FOUNDATIONS
SPONSOR
COLLABORATOR
LIVE STREAMING PARTNER
AARHUS SYMPOSIUM 37
THE ORGANISING COMMITTEE STEERING COMMITTEE
FINANCE
The Steering Committee is responsible for the overall management of Aarhus Symposium, its development, and its results. This includes recruiting organisers, facilitating intergroup collaboration, and developing the culture of the organisation.
The Finance Group manages the finances of the organisation. This includes drawing up the budget in close collaboration with each of the groups within the organisation as well as producing the annual report.
Anne Sofie Andersen Morten Holst
Kristian Højmark Jakobsen, Head of Group Anders Max, Senior Organiser David Klejs Hemmingsen
IT
UNIVERSITY ALLIANCES
The IT Group is responsible for development and maintenance of the IT systems of Aarhus Symposium. This includes managing the official website, providing general know-how about IT, and offering technical support for the organisation.
University Alliances works in close collaboration with the Marketing Group to create awareness and interest in Aarhus Symposium by initiating and sustaining partnerships with other student organisations from Scandinavian universities.
Jens Pelegrino Hansen, Head of Group Nikolaj Bjørn
Magnus Kærgaard Hansen, Head of Group Sara Amnitzbøll
BUSINESS RELATIONS
ESSENTIALS
Business Relations is responsible for generating the funding for Aarhus Symposium through corporate partnerships in order to secure the execution of the world-class events.
The Essentials Group ties everything together and is in charge of the planning and execution of Aarhus Symposium Focus and Aarhus Symposium. This also includes ensuring great product partnerships and delicious catering for our participants.
Lasse Dahlstrøm Jensen, Head of Group Emma Winterberg, Senior Organiser Oliver Nielsen, Senior Organiser Amalie Guldmann Matthew Lodahl
Daniel Astrup Hansen, Head of Group Emma Dengsøe Frederik Hother Sørensen Jacob Rohde Sørensen Line Christensen Stine Staal Axelsen
PROGRAMME
MARKETING
The Programme Group acts as the official link between organisers, speakers, and moderators. In addition, it is responsible for developing and designing the programmes of Aarhus Symposium Focus and Aarhus Symposium and for creating the most interesting topics for Aarhus Symposium Challenge.
The Marketing Group is responsible for developing and promoting the Aarhus Symposium brand by creating marketing strategies and leveraging online communication channels as well as on-campus happenings.
Emil Elholm, Head of Group Kasper Juulsgaard Kristian Brandt Sørensen Maria Buus-Andersen Nikolas Behrendt Wilki Sebastian Grube Østergaard Sune Viberg
Frederik Secher Christensen, Co-Head of Group Maja Fløjstrup, Co-Head of Group Helene Sylvester, Senior Organiser Kasper Zysek, Senior Organiser Anna Agerskov Gabedov Emil Dam Samuelsen Frederikke Bøge Stærmose
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BECOME AN ORGANISER OF AARHUS SYMPOSIUM 2020
Now is your chance to join one of Denmark’s most ambitious student-driven organisations! Do you want to join a social network of fellow dedicated students? Are you interested in developing your skills and gaining invaluable practical experience? Now is your chance to join the Organising Committee of Aarhus Symposium 2020! Aarhus Symposium is organised by a team of approximately 35 volunteer students, and various positions are available for 2020.
We do not require any experience and application is open to all students who will still be enrolled by November 2020. The job vacancy for Aarhus Symposium 2020 will be posted on Monday, November 4, on www.aarhussymposium.org and social media platforms. We look forward to receiving your application!
THE APPLICATION DEADLINE IS NOVEMBER 17
“
Aarhus Symposium has been a gateway for me to new friends, good memories, and valuable learning opportunities. It has been a professional playground in which I could develop my skills and grow as an individual. As I begin my professional career, I look back at my time in Aarhus Symposium with joy. Emil Elholm - MSc in Economics & Management, Organiser of Aarhus Symposium 2018 & 2019. AARHUS SYMPOSIUM 39
NOVEMBER 1, 2019
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WWW.AARHUS-SYMPOSIUM.ORG