New Leadership in Human Resources: A Shift in the Nordic Corporate Landscape
January 9, 2025, 10:27 pm
The winds of change are blowing through the Nordic corporate landscape. Two prominent companies, JM and Swedbank, have recently announced new appointments in their Human Resources departments. These changes signal a renewed focus on leadership, culture, and employee engagement in a rapidly evolving business environment.
Maria Branestam has been appointed as the new Director of Human Resources at JM, a leading developer of housing and residential areas in the Nordic region. Her journey will officially begin no later than July 4, 2025. With a background in social work, Branestam brings a wealth of experience from her previous role as Head of HR Operations at MAX Burgers AB. Her resume also includes significant positions at Martin & Servera and Nordea.
Branestam's appointment is more than just a change in personnel; it’s a strategic move. JM’s President and CEO, Mikael Åslund, believes her extensive experience will be invaluable. He emphasizes the importance of continuous improvement, a positive work environment, and being an attractive employer. These elements are crucial for JM’s success. Branestam is expected to enhance the company’s leadership and culture, steering it toward a brighter future.
In parallel, Swedbank has welcomed Jenny Garneij as its new Head of HR and Facility Management. Garneij will step into her role by early July, succeeding Carina Strand, who has held the position since 2017. Garneij’s background is equally impressive. She comes from Tele2, where she was Head of Human Resources and a member of Group Management. Her experience spans various financial institutions, including Nordea, SEB, and Nordnet.
Jens Henriksson, President and CEO of Swedbank, is optimistic about Garneij’s impact. He envisions a collaborative effort to enhance the bank’s business and employee engagement. Garneij holds a Master’s degree from the University of Gothenburg, adding academic credentials to her extensive professional experience.
Both Branestam and Garneij are stepping into their roles at a time when the corporate world is undergoing significant transformation. The COVID-19 pandemic has reshaped workplace dynamics, emphasizing the need for strong leadership and a supportive work environment. Companies are now more aware than ever of the importance of employee well-being and engagement.
Branestam’s focus on continuous improvement aligns with JM’s commitment to sustainability and community development. The company is not just about building homes; it’s about creating vibrant communities. With annual sales of approximately SEK 13 billion and around 2,000 employees, JM is a key player in the Nordic housing market. The appointment of Branestam signals a commitment to nurturing talent and fostering a positive workplace culture.
Similarly, Swedbank’s mission to empower individuals and businesses reflects a broader trend in the banking sector. The bank serves over 7 million retail customers and 550,000 corporate clients across Sweden, Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania. Garneij’s role will be pivotal in enhancing the bank’s attractiveness as an employer. The focus on employee engagement is crucial in a competitive financial landscape.
Carina Strand’s departure marks the end of an era at Swedbank. Her contributions to modernizing HR practices and developing leadership within the bank have been significant. As she steps down, the bank is poised for a new chapter under Garneij’s leadership. The transition reflects a broader trend in corporate governance, where fresh perspectives are sought to navigate the complexities of modern business.
The appointment of Branestam and Garneij is not just about filling positions; it’s about strategic alignment with corporate goals. Both companies are prioritizing their human resources as a critical component of their overall strategy. The emphasis on leadership development, employee engagement, and workplace culture is becoming a hallmark of successful organizations.
In a world where talent is the new currency, companies must invest in their people. The new HR leaders at JM and Swedbank are expected to champion this cause. They will play a crucial role in shaping the future of their organizations, ensuring that employees feel valued and engaged.
As the corporate landscape continues to evolve, the focus on human resources will only intensify. Companies that prioritize their workforce will thrive. Those that neglect this vital aspect may find themselves struggling to keep pace.
Branestam and Garneij are stepping into their roles at a pivotal moment. Their leadership will be instrumental in navigating the challenges ahead. The corporate world is watching closely as these two leaders embark on their journeys.
In conclusion, the appointments of Maria Branestam and Jenny Garneij are more than just changes in leadership. They represent a shift in how companies view their most valuable asset: their people. As JM and Swedbank move forward, the emphasis on human resources will shape their paths. The future is bright for those who invest in their workforce. The stage is set for a new era in the Nordic corporate landscape.
Maria Branestam has been appointed as the new Director of Human Resources at JM, a leading developer of housing and residential areas in the Nordic region. Her journey will officially begin no later than July 4, 2025. With a background in social work, Branestam brings a wealth of experience from her previous role as Head of HR Operations at MAX Burgers AB. Her resume also includes significant positions at Martin & Servera and Nordea.
Branestam's appointment is more than just a change in personnel; it’s a strategic move. JM’s President and CEO, Mikael Åslund, believes her extensive experience will be invaluable. He emphasizes the importance of continuous improvement, a positive work environment, and being an attractive employer. These elements are crucial for JM’s success. Branestam is expected to enhance the company’s leadership and culture, steering it toward a brighter future.
In parallel, Swedbank has welcomed Jenny Garneij as its new Head of HR and Facility Management. Garneij will step into her role by early July, succeeding Carina Strand, who has held the position since 2017. Garneij’s background is equally impressive. She comes from Tele2, where she was Head of Human Resources and a member of Group Management. Her experience spans various financial institutions, including Nordea, SEB, and Nordnet.
Jens Henriksson, President and CEO of Swedbank, is optimistic about Garneij’s impact. He envisions a collaborative effort to enhance the bank’s business and employee engagement. Garneij holds a Master’s degree from the University of Gothenburg, adding academic credentials to her extensive professional experience.
Both Branestam and Garneij are stepping into their roles at a time when the corporate world is undergoing significant transformation. The COVID-19 pandemic has reshaped workplace dynamics, emphasizing the need for strong leadership and a supportive work environment. Companies are now more aware than ever of the importance of employee well-being and engagement.
Branestam’s focus on continuous improvement aligns with JM’s commitment to sustainability and community development. The company is not just about building homes; it’s about creating vibrant communities. With annual sales of approximately SEK 13 billion and around 2,000 employees, JM is a key player in the Nordic housing market. The appointment of Branestam signals a commitment to nurturing talent and fostering a positive workplace culture.
Similarly, Swedbank’s mission to empower individuals and businesses reflects a broader trend in the banking sector. The bank serves over 7 million retail customers and 550,000 corporate clients across Sweden, Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania. Garneij’s role will be pivotal in enhancing the bank’s attractiveness as an employer. The focus on employee engagement is crucial in a competitive financial landscape.
Carina Strand’s departure marks the end of an era at Swedbank. Her contributions to modernizing HR practices and developing leadership within the bank have been significant. As she steps down, the bank is poised for a new chapter under Garneij’s leadership. The transition reflects a broader trend in corporate governance, where fresh perspectives are sought to navigate the complexities of modern business.
The appointment of Branestam and Garneij is not just about filling positions; it’s about strategic alignment with corporate goals. Both companies are prioritizing their human resources as a critical component of their overall strategy. The emphasis on leadership development, employee engagement, and workplace culture is becoming a hallmark of successful organizations.
In a world where talent is the new currency, companies must invest in their people. The new HR leaders at JM and Swedbank are expected to champion this cause. They will play a crucial role in shaping the future of their organizations, ensuring that employees feel valued and engaged.
As the corporate landscape continues to evolve, the focus on human resources will only intensify. Companies that prioritize their workforce will thrive. Those that neglect this vital aspect may find themselves struggling to keep pace.
Branestam and Garneij are stepping into their roles at a pivotal moment. Their leadership will be instrumental in navigating the challenges ahead. The corporate world is watching closely as these two leaders embark on their journeys.
In conclusion, the appointments of Maria Branestam and Jenny Garneij are more than just changes in leadership. They represent a shift in how companies view their most valuable asset: their people. As JM and Swedbank move forward, the emphasis on human resources will shape their paths. The future is bright for those who invest in their workforce. The stage is set for a new era in the Nordic corporate landscape.