Name: Karen Marie Klaaborg
Date of birth: 1986
Title: Senior Director in Innovation Unit
Company: Coloplast
Degree: Master’s degree in Economics and Management (Cand. Oecon)
Fun fact: Active yachtsman
Was there a specific moment/reason when you realized you wanted to pursue a leadership (or STEM) career?
I have been curious about leadership through most of my life and hence also sought it in many different situations – whether it has been as captain of the football team in my early teens, Head Ski Guide or responsible for more than 150 volunteers for events during my studies. However, I was particularly confirmed that I have the ability to create followership and take the lead on behalf of others during my studies, where I was elected as a student representative to the University Board.
What has been crucial to get you to where you are today?
There are several things that have been crucial. Choosing the right education that taught me to work under pressure and deal with complexity. Getting my first job as newly graduated in a company with a clear set of values and mission, where the focus is on talent development and the importance of good management. Succeeding in reconciling my private life and work life through a good partnership with my husband.
Tell us about a female role model and the impact this person had on you – either personally or professionally?
There are many people who have inspired me and helped me find my own path career-wise. Professor Nina Smith has been a role model throughout my studies as a strong profile with views on women and careers rooted in research. In addition, she has also been an inspiration in relation to how to create a career as a woman in boards.
What do you enjoy most about your work today?
To be at the forefront of setting the commercial direction for Coloplast’s future product innovation in the field of ostomy. In addition, I get energy from being surrounded by skilled employees and the community with colleagues in the organization.
What does good leadership mean to you?
That you manage to create an environment around you where people understand and buy into the direction, while at the same time being aware that success is a team sport. Everyone can and must contribute with what they are best at and only by challenging the status quo, trust in each other, and learning from our mistakes , we succeed. In addition, you must dare to set ambitious goals and be clear about the priorities to get there.