What motivated you to apply for the Novonesis Graduate Programme, and what stood out to you about the company during the application process?
First of all, I was looking for a graduate programme because I wasn’t sure what kind of work would motivate me most. I wanted something flexible that would allow me to explore different areas and figure out where I could grow and contribute. The programme at Novonesis stood out because you can shape it yourself based on your own interests and development goals. On top of that, I’ve always wanted to work for a company that’s making a real difference in the world. Novonesis caught my attention as a purpose-driven company with a strong focus on sustainability and innovation—things I value.
Throughout the application process, the people I met confirmed that this was the right place for me. They were genuinely inspiring and clearly shared the same values I do. Their openness, passion, and authenticity made me feel like this is a place where I can grow and make a meaningful contribution.
How would you describe the culture at Novonesis, and what has surprised you most since joining?
What surprised me most since joining Novonesis is how much trust you’re given right from the start. You’re encouraged to take ownership, speak up, and get involved in decisions—even as a new graduate. The culture really supports exploring new ideas, which makes every day feel different and exciting.
There’s a lot of collaboration across teams and levels, which keeps the work dynamic and interesting. You get to learn from people with all kinds of backgrounds, and that helps you grow quickly. At the same time, there’s always support when you need it—managers and colleagues are happy to guide you, but they also give you the space to take initiative and find your own way.
Can you share a project or experience that has had a big impact on your learning or professional growth so far?
I’ve been exploring a lot of different areas in the company, and it’s helped me learn so much. I started in Corporate Finance during the annual report period, then moved into Business Finance in one of the commercial areas. That helped me understand how one of our key business areas works—how it’s managed, how the numbers are tracked, and how finance supports decision-making.
After that, I joined the Ventures and External Innovation team, which was a completely different experience—more focused on future ideas and exploring new opportunities. And now I’m in the US, getting hands-on experience with how operations are managed and improved.
The biggest learning for me has been how important it is to stay open and adaptable. Each area felt like stepping into something totally new, and sometimes I felt like a beginner again. But that’s exactly what helped me grow. It’s pushed me to learn quickly, ask questions, and get comfortable with being outside my comfort zone.
Novonesis focuses heavily on sustainability and innovation – how have you seen those values reflected in your work or team?
At Novonesis, sustainability and innovation are part of everyday life. The company is always working to improve sustainable efficiency, and that mindset shows up in everything we do. People here are driven by curiosity and care—you can really feel it. We’re always encouraged to explore new areas, improve how we work, and think about long-term impact.
The biggest learning for me has been how important it is to stay open and adaptable.
What has it been like working in a science-driven company with a strong global presence?
It’s been really cool! I’ve always been driven by a global perspective, so it was important for me to not work in a company that’s only focused on Denmark. Working in a global company makes decision-making more complex, because you have to consider different markets, cultures, and norms. I enjoy that part—it pushes you to connect, adapt, and think beyond your own background. Plus, being exposed to how things work across the world is super interesting and gives you a much broader perspective. Now I’m in the US—that’s not an opportunity you get everywhere, and I really appreciate it.
How has the graduate programme supported your personal and professional development, both through training and mentorship?
The graduate programme has supported my development in so many ways. You get both a mentor and a buddy, which is great for having someone to guide you and someone to talk to more informally. On top of that, you rotate across different departments, so you get to work with lots of different people. Everyone I’ve met has been more than willing to help—whether it’s giving advice, taking time for a coffee chat, or training you in their area. That openness and support have made it easier to learn and grow, both professionally and personally.
What has been the biggest challenge in transitioning from student life to working life at Novonesis, and how did you handle it?
It’s just a different rhythm compared to student life, but Novonesis is a very flexible company. That’s made the transition much easier. As long as you get your work done, there’s room to maintain your social life and personal routines. I’ve found that balance really valuable—it helps you stay motivated and enjoy both work and life outside of it.
What advice would you give to future graduates who want to join Novonesis and make the most of the programme?
Go for it—and say yes to every challenge that comes your way. Even if it feels like too much at times, there’s always support available. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. The key is to keep seeking out opportunities—that’s what really drives your growth and shapes your journey in the programme.
