In this interview, we delve into the remarkable story of how Mikael Hoier, the CEO of LOWENCO A/S, embarked on his path to success in the world of technical sales and business leadership. Join us as Mikael shares his experiences, notable accomplishments, leadership style, and the values that have guided him along the way. Discover what sets LOWENCO A/S apart from other companies, how Mikael navigated the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, and his aspirations for the future. Get ready to be inspired by Mikael’s journey as a CEO and his relentless pursuit of excellence in the field of technical sales and solutions.
Personal Journey as a Business Leader
Mikael’s journey as a business leader began with a technical background as an Electronic Technician, followed by an Academy Profession Degree in Leadership and Management. Over the past 22 years, he has been involved in technical sales, leveraging his expertise to connect with clients effectively. His motivation stems from a desire to contribute to the growth and development of both the companies he works for and the people around him. He firmly believes in setting clear goals and ambitions, and his relentless pursuit of achieving these milestones has been the driving force behind his successful career.
Significant Accomplishments and Success Stories
One of Mikael’s most significant accomplishments was during his tenure as Sales Manager (General Manager) at his previous company. He took charge of the sales subsidiaries in Denmark, which had experienced five years of declining turnover. Mikael analyzed the markets, identified trends, and assessed the internal staff. He then devised a strategy to reverse the declining trend and managed to achieve four consecutive years of year-on-year growth. By building a motivated and skilled team, he instilled a culture of ownership and support, which ultimately contributed to the company’s turnaround.
Leadership Style and Approach to Driving Growth and Success
As a leader, Mikael describes his style as open, honest, and business-oriented. He places a strong focus on meeting clients’ needs and expectations while fostering a development-oriented environment for both his team and the company. His approach is characterized by availability and support, and he believes in getting the optimal output from each team member, empowering them to become self-reliant and independent.
Unique Strategies and Initiatives for Market Differentiation
LOWENCO A/S stands out in the market due to its unique and disruptive product solutions that cater to critical equipment needs in the pharmaceutical industry. Mikael’s sales strategy, which he formulated upon joining the company in 2017, played a pivotal role in expanding the company’s awareness and success. The strategy has been integrated into LOWENCO’s long-term business plan, guiding their growth and differentiation in the market.
Navigating Challenging Situations as a Business Leader
One of the most challenging situations Mikael faced as a business leader was the COVID-19 pandemic. As a company providing crucial equipment to the pharmaceutical industry, they were directly affected by travel restrictions and supply chain disruptions. Despite the obstacles, Mikael and his team stayed focused and worked diligently to deliver projects on time. The spirit, willingness, and diligence of his staff during this difficult time were invaluable to overcoming the challenges posed by the pandemic.
Guiding Values and Principles in Decision-Making
To stay informed about the latest industry trends and developments, Mikael maintains close contact with clients and sales teams, attends exhibitions, and seeks feedback from the market. Being informed about market trends is crucial for a business leader’s success, as it allows them to make informed decisions and adapt their strategies to the evolving landscape.
Key Factors Contributing to Success as a Business Leader
Looking ahead, Mikael’s future aspirations as a business leader involve further developing LOWENCO A/S into an even stronger and more prominent company. He envisions executing the growth strategy to expand their business, increase market share, enter new markets, and enhance their workforce to better serve their global clientele.
Personal Accolades, Awards, and Industry Recognition
Mikael’s contributions to the field have earned him numerous accolades and industry recognition, including being named among the “10 most Admired CEOs in 2021” by Inc Magazine, one of the “World’s 10 most influential Business Leaders making a difference in 2021” by World leaders, and one of the “10 most successful CEOs making a difference in 2021” by CIO Views, among others.
In conclusion, Mikael’s relentless pursuit of excellence, combined with his strategic leadership and commitment to people development, has played a significant role in his success as a business leader. With his clear vision and goals, Mikael Hoier continues to inspire and make a difference in the field of technical sales and business leadership.
