.svg){kind=logo}
.svg){kind=logo}
Visma's strategy and leadership philosophy. These are two strong themes in the Norwegian-owned group's Visma Management Academy training package. A total of 55 participants from different parts of Europe - and from companies that are part of Visma's large numerical cluster - have the privilege of attending this educational program. He notes that the first session in Oslo was very rewarding.
- Yes, I would say that it was two very interesting and intense days. There was a lot of information and many impressions, says Lars after returning from the Norwegian capital.
As we mentioned, it is especially nominated employees who have been admitted to the Academy. With that trust comes the responsibility to prepare properly and perform tasks in advance that form the cornerstones and starting points of the gatherings.
Before this introductory seminar, participants had to create, among other things, a business case with good relevance and with a likely positive effect for a company.
More precisely, it was about how to present an idea you have to a board, or internally for that matter. Perhaps you want to justify why more jobs are needed or secure financial resources to implement a certain project," Lars explains and continues:
- The case was then presented on site to the whole group. They then received feedback on how the model would hold up, what to think about and tips on improvements. I think it was good input and a useful experience. These are thoughts worth taking to heart and which we at our company can use when we carry out business cases.
Lars adds:
- What was discussed was big and small. Everything from large investments in terms of money to becoming more efficient with existing resources. Improvements don't necessarily have to be counted in dollars. Sometimes it's enough to work in a smarter way. 
Conversations in a friendly atmosphere
Among the audience judging the proposed projects was Yvette Hoogewerf, Visma's director of the medium-sized enterprise segment. She was also one of the speakers on the second day, elaborating on various facts and thoughts under the heading "Creative strategy that works".
Three other senior executives also addressed the participants.
Merete Hverven, Visma's Chief Executive Officer, gave an insight into the group's strategy and leadership philosophy.
Sindre Talleraas Holen, M&A Director, focused on "Future Growth".
Steffen Torp, Head of Communications, talked about Visma's development and success journey.
Lars considers the lectures very interesting. He also liked the warmth that was conveyed. Visma has become a group with a large international presence, but the genuine family feeling is still maintained. "Best friends" is a motto that is often used. This is how Visma wants the socializing to be between group colleagues. Friendship is something you care about.
Valuable networking
Gatherings such as Visma Management Adacemy, which will take place in a total of three stages, are imbued with an inviting spirit. With representatives from eight countries in one and the same forum, an exciting dynamic arises.
- Yes, what I think is the most fun, and what gives me the most when you are out on courses in general, is networking with people in other companies in similar roles. It gives the opportunity to exchange different thoughts and ideas. What do you do in a particular situation? Have you found interesting solutions to share?
Lars feels that it is a valuable contact point:
- Especially in this context where you meet many companies from other countries. I am convinced that it is possible to find collaborations within the group and take advantage of methods and approaches used elsewhere instead of creating and building everything yourself. It was two days of important networking too. An exchange that will continue when the next session is held sometime in 2025.
Captions:
Visma Management Academy gathered for its first two-day training in Oslo. The second picture shows Visma's CEO Merete Hverven giving an inspiring lecture on the group's strategy and leadership philosophy.
Photo: INGAR JOHANSEN
