Leading with presence. Experiences from an international assignment
When Fredrik Östman stepped in as interim Supply Chain Manager at Hydroscand Group, he not only had to manage logistics in several countries—he also needed to build trust in an organization undergoing change. Through coaching leadership and a hands-on approach, he became an important part of the team, whether he was in the Czech Republic, Norway, or working remotely. Here, he shares his insights on cultural differences, the importance of listening, and what it takes to succeed in international assignments.
A broad mission in transition
The assignment began in the Czech Republic, where Fredrik immediately had to navigate an organization in transition—without a handover and with broad responsibilities. It was an assignment characterized by learning, flexibility, and presence.
I find motivation in the challenges that each assignment presents. In this case, the organization needed someone to lean on, and the assignment was extremely broad. It was learning by doing from day one, says Fredrik.
It didn't take long before his role expanded further. In addition to the Czech assignment, he also took on the role of Group Planner, and shortly thereafter, the focus shifted to Norway, where he became interim Supply Chain Manager for the Norwegian central warehouse.
Leadership that builds trust
Hydroscand is organized in such a way that each country makes its own decisions, which meant that Fredrik had to sell each change directly to local managers. With a coaching leadership style, he created commitment and momentum.
I included everyone and built trust by listening. We don't have all the answers ourselves, but we can find them out together.
Building strong relationships was crucial. Everyday life in Oslo meant being hands-on in meetings, attending daily stand-ups, visiting branches, and creating security through physical leadership. The weeks spent working remotely were instead focused on reporting, coordination, and dialogue with the global organization.
It was very much about being present. When I was there, I prioritized relationships, and when I was remote, I focused on what I could do best in the background.
Growing in the role – and between cultures
The assignment also became a personal journey. The broad responsibility required not only technical expertise but also the courage to trust in one's abilities—and to know when to ask for help.
I take with me the knowledge that I know more than I think. There were areas I had only touched on before, but I knew enough to know when I needed to find the right expertise.
Fredrik also emphasizes the importance of understanding cultural nuances in international assignments—even between countries as close as Sweden and Norway.
When you work with Norwegians in international teams, everything feels pretty much the same. But when you're there, you notice that there are big differences in culture and working methods. It was an eye-opener.
International Desk: the right consultant, the right place
Fredrik's assignment is a clear example of how Interim Search's International Desk works: with local understanding, global reach, and the ability to quickly match the right skills to the right context. Through a broad international network and proven processes, the team can appoint qualified interim consultants—often within 48 hours.
