CEO Leadership transition in Ekornes – Fredrik Ødegård Nilsen Appointed New Group CEO

Ekornes today announces a change in its Group Executive Management. Tine Hammernes Leopold is stepping down as Group CEO by mutual agreement with the Board, and Fredrik Ødegård Nilsen has been appointed as the new Group CEO.

The change reflects different perspectives on how to best execute the company’s strategy going forward

- On behalf of the Board, I would like to thank Tine Hammernes Leopold for a significant contribution during a period characterized by high complexity and challenging market conditions. Under Tines leadership she has developed the organization and established an important foundation for further improvement efforts. At the same time, the parties have now agreed on a change. We have great confidence that Fredrik Ødegård Nilsen will lead Ekornes forward with clear priorities and a high pace,” says Ruihai Zhao, Chair of the Board of Ekornes.

Tine Hammernes Leopold will remain available for a period to ensure a smooth and orderly transition.

- It has been a privilege to lead Ekornes. I am proud of the work that we have accomplished together with employees, management, and the Board to position the company for the future. I sincerely wish Fredrik Ødegård Nilsen and the team every success in the work ahead. My focus now is to contribute to a seamless transition, says Tine Hammernes Leopold.

Fredrik Ødegård Nilsen comes from the role of EVP & CFO and has broad insight into the company’s operations and strategic priorities.

- I am grateful for the trust and take on the role with great respect. I am assuming leadership of a company with significant potential that is well positioned for the future. My focus will be on creating clear direction, strong execution capability, and rapid impact in our most important priorities. We will strengthen operations and delivery capability, improve productivity, and ensure initiatives that make us an even better partner for our customers. Together, we will continue to build on Ekornes’ strong brands and long-term opportunities, says Fredrik Ødegård Nilsen.

For more information:

Fredrik Ødegård Nilsen, CEO Ekornes AS
Tel: +47 480 90 096
E-mail: fon@ekornes.com