In an era marked by rapid technological advancements, transforming a traditional heavy industrial company into a fast-paced technology-driven entity requires a bold approach that encompasses strategic acquisitions, effective change management, and the cultivation of a dynamic corporate culture.

We were delighted to welcome Helena Hedblom​, President and CEO of Epiroc Group​, as our guest at the Swedish Chambers APAC CEO Talk on 28 February. Ms Hedblom talked about the transformation journey of Eprioc and how to move a heavy industrial company to become more of a fast-paced technology company. The success lies in the strategic blend of acquisitions, change management, and cultural evolution. By embracing innovation at every level and fostering a dynamic organisational culture, companies can position themselves at the forefront of technological progress, ensuring long-term sustainability and competitiveness in the global market.

The discussion was facilitated by Petra Andrén, who is an innovation leader, experienced board member, accomplished investor, and business builder with a track record spanning over 25 years in international markets and advanced technology sectors.

View the recording of the event here

View presentation slides here

Speaker:

Helena Hedblom, President and CEO of Epiroc AB

Current positions
• President and CEO of Epiroc AB
• Member of the Board of Stora Enso Oy and Wallenberg Investments AB, and member of the Royal
Swedish Academy of Engineering Sciences

Previous positions
• Senior Executive Vice President Mining and Infrastructure and a member of Epiroc Group
Management
• President of the Mining and Rock Excavation business area, Atlas Copco
• President of the Rock Drilling Tools division, Atlas Copco

Education
• M.Sc. in Material Technology from the Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, Sweden

Epiroc AB is a Swedish manufacturer of mining and infrastructure equipment. It is headquartered in Stockholm, Sweden and has manufacturing facilities in Sweden, the United States, Canada, Australia, China, India, Japan, and Germany. Epiroc’s history began in 1873 when the company – then called Atlas – was founded in Stockholm, Sweden. Epiroc and Atlas Copco shared their history until June 18, 2018, when Epiroc was distributed to Atlas Copco’s shareholders and became a stand-alone listed company. In December 2022, the company had 16,999 employees and a revenue of 49,604 MSEK.

Facilitator:

Petra Andrén

Petra is an innovation leader, experienced board member, accomplished investor, and business builder with a track record spanning over 25 years in international markets and advanced technology sectors. Her diverse skill set has been honed through CEO and executive roles in global corporations, commercialisation, venture capital, and government. In her most recent role, Petra led the NSW government’s initiatives on Innovation Districts, strategically fostering collaboration to drive innovation. Prior to this, she played a pivotal role in identifying and managing early-stage health and tech investments for Minderoo & Tattarang, Australia’s largest private investment group. Preceding these roles, Petra served as the CEO and creator of Cicada Innovations, where her visionary leadership earned global acclaim in 2018 when Cicada was recognized as the “Best Incubator in the World” by inBIA, thanks to innovative models for commercialization and seed investment. Beyond her professional roles, Petra is an angel investor, a dedicated startup business mentor, a frequent conference speaker, and an educator teaching entrepreneurship and innovation at Australia’s leading universities.

Previous guests at Swedish Chambers APAC CEO Series:

Micael Johansson, President & CEO Saab Group

Göran Björkman, President & CEO, Alleima

Jesper Brodin, CEO, Ingka Group

Mats Ramström, President & CEO, Atlas Copco Group

Christian Levin, President & CEO, Scania Group

Jonas Samuelson, CEO, Electrolux AB

On Friday 7 February, the Melbourne Chapter of SACC, organised their first After Work Networking event for the year.

We are introducing regular After Work networking in Melbourne and the first one took place 7 February at the Morris House Rooftop: Melbourne CBD’s Newest Rooftop Bar. This was an informal catch up with about 25 people attending.

Look out for the next AW – A great opportunity to build connections and meet fellow members and friends from the Swedish-Australian business network!

SACC Melbourne Chapter