What are your first impressions after starting your new role as Country Sales Manager Norway at D&E Bearings?
My first impressions have been very good. I’ve received a warm welcome from everyone, and it’s clear that there is a lot of knowledge and experience within the company.
There has been a lot to learn, but I’ve really enjoyed the role so far. It’s exciting to be part of a well-established company while also having the opportunity to build something new in Norway.
What made you interested in D&E Bearings and in the opportunity to help build the company’s presence in Norway?
I liked the idea of being responsible for developing the Norwegian market. It’s a role with a lot of responsibility, which I find motivating.
D&E Bearings also has a wide product range and a strong position in Sweden and Finland, so I believe we have a good starting point for growing the business in Norway.
You have more than 13 years of experience in technical sales, business development and customer relationship management in the Norwegian market. What from that experience do you bring with you to D&E Bearings?
I have worked with technical sales for many years and have gained a good understanding of the Norwegian industrial market.
I think the most important thing I’ve learned is to listen to customers and understand what they actually need. It’s not always about finding the most advanced solution, but the one that works best for the customer.
I also have experience in developing new business and building long-term customer relationships, which I believe will be useful in this role.
How do you see the Norwegian market from D&E Bearings’ perspective? Where do you currently see the greatest opportunities?
I believe there is a lot of potential in Norway. We have many interesting industrial companies, particularly within marine, offshore and hydraulics, where our products are relevant.
These are the areas I’m focusing on initially, but I also see opportunities in other industries. The main challenge is to make more companies aware of D&E Bearings and what we can offer.
In what direction would you like to develop D&E Bearings’ business in Norway?
My main focus is to establish D&E Bearings as a reliable supplier to Norwegian industrial companies.
I want to build a solid customer base and develop long-term relationships. Initially, I’m focusing on industries where I believe we have the best opportunities, but over time I would like to expand into other segments as well.
What is your vision for the future of the Norwegian operation?
I would like D&E Bearings to become a well-known and trusted supplier in the Norwegian market.
The goal is to build a solid and growing business with satisfied customers who see us as a natural choice when they need bearing solutions.
D&E Bearings works closely with OEM customers, industrial companies and other partners. What do you see as the most important factors in building long-term customer relationships?
I think trust is the most important factor. Customers need to know that they can rely on you and that you deliver what you promise.
It’s also important to be available, respond quickly and take the time to understand their needs. In my experience, good relationships are built over time by doing the small things right.
Technical expertise and commercial understanding are both central to your work. How does this combination show in practice when working with customers?
For me, it’s about finding a solution that works both technically and commercially.
Of course, the product needs to meet the technical requirements, but price, availability and delivery time are often just as important.
I try to understand the customer’s priorities and work with our suppliers and technical team to find the best possible solution.
D&E Bearings aims to offer its customers more than just products. What kind of added value do you particularly want to create for customers in Norway?
I want us to be more than just a company that supplies bearings.
We have a lot of technical knowledge and a wide range of products, which means we can help customers find alternatives and solutions they might not have considered.
I also think being easy to work with, responding quickly and providing good service are important parts of what we offer.
How would you describe your own approach to sales and building customer relationships?
I would describe my approach as personal and straightforward.
I enjoy meeting customers and learning about their businesses. I think it’s important to listen to what they need and not try to sell something just for the sake of making a sale. My focus is on building relationships that last.
What are your main goals for your first year at D&E Bearings in Norway?
My main goal is to get D&E Bearings established in the Norwegian market.
A big part of that is visiting customers, introducing the company and understanding where we can offer something valuable.
I also want to develop our existing customer relationships and, of course, bring in new customers. The first year is mainly about building a good foundation for further growth.
What would you like Norwegian customers and partners to know about D&E Bearings right now?
I would like them to know that we have a broad range of bearing products and a lot of technical knowledge and experience within the company.
Even though we are now building up our presence in Norway, D&E Bearings is already an established company with a strong organisation behind it.
With a local contact in Norway and support from our colleagues in Sweden and Finland, we can offer both personal service and technical expertise.
And outside work – what is important to you, and what do you enjoy doing in your free time?
Outside work, I spend most of my time with my family.
I enjoy outdoor activities such as mountain biking, kayaking, sailing and fishing. I like being active and spending time in nature, whether it’s a short trip close to home or a longer trip during the holidays.