The future of leadership: Mikael Augustinson

What requirements do you see for interim managers' skills right now?
The most important thing is to have a genuine helicopter perspective. As an interim consultant, you need to be able to quickly understand the challenges facing the business, both in the short and long term. This requires a deep knowledge and understanding of the different types of transformations that need to be implemented in different industries. You also need to have a clear understanding of how AI affects different companies and industries, as it is now an integral part of almost all business development. It's not enough to just identify the problems; you need to have the ability to both design and implement concrete solutions that will last over time.

How do you systematically keep your skills relevant?
I put a lot of focus on business intelligence. It's about keeping a close eye on trends, threats and technological developments in each industry. I follow the research closely and attend relevant events. In a world that moves as fast as it does now, continuous updates on security and market trends are absolutely crucial to be able to give the right advice to your clients.

What skills are most important to maximize your impact in today's fast-paced world?
You have to dare to go against the grain and question wrong decisions. As an interim, you are in a unique position to look at the business with fresh eyes. By focusing hard on what the business actually needs to succeed, rather than just managing the status quo, you create real impact. It takes courage, but it's also where the greatest value lies.

What kind of in-depth training do you see as most valuable for an interim manager?
In-depth knowledge of business intelligence and specific business processes such as M&A, i.e. acquisitions and spin-offs, is extremely valuable. But also a deeper understanding of security and how global threats affect the local business. Understanding the big drivers allows you to navigate complex change projects more confidently.

What is your best advice to stay competitive going forward?
Get as much industry experience as possible and dare to think outside the proverbial box. Always make your own clear plan for how the assignment will be carried out and make sure to get it anchored with the client directly. Then don't be afraid to roll up your sleeves and work operationally when needed - it increases understanding of the business. And don't forget to have fun along the way and see the opportunities in every cultural challenge!

About Mikael Augustinson

Mikael Augustinson is a versatile interim manager with over 30 years of experience from several different industries and complex change journeys in international environments. The last 10 years with a focus in Interim Management and Change Management. He is known for his ability to combine strategic analysis with operational action, often in roles where clear leadership is required to implement sustainable change. With a particular focus on business value and a courageous approach, he helps organizations navigate correctly in times of uncertainty and growth. Mikael has held roles as CIO, CTO, COO, Strategic Architect, Program Manager, Strategic Advisor and more.

Do you want to get better at managing in complex structures?

As Mikael points out, a holistic approach and the ability to translate analysis into practical action are crucial for success. On May 18-22, the Interim Management Professional Program in Gothenburg. The programme gives you the academic depth and the tools you need to challenge ingrained patterns and create lasting results in modern organizations.

Read more and sign up here.