Helge Thorbjørnsen (49) is NHHs New Rector
The rector’s chain has finally changed hands. «In a world undergoing major changes, NHH’s role is more important than ever. I intend to be a clear and unifying rector,» says Helge Thorbjørnsen.
Flowers were abundant. Smiles were everywhere. It had been known for a while, but on Friday, Helge Thorbjørnsen officially took over the rector’s office from Øystein Thøgersen, who steps down after eight years in the role.
«NHH is getting a brilliant new rector. Handing over the baton to someone who knows NHH inside and out is reassuring,» said Thøgersen during Friday’s key handover. At the same time, Thorbjørnsen felt the weight of the rector’s chain for the first time.
«I’m taking over a ‘shop’ that is very well run. Øystein has done an absolutely outstanding job as rector of NHH, so I have big shoes to fill,» says Thorbjørnsen, who showed up on his first day in deep red sneakers with rubber studs.
Forward-Looking
The world is shaking, predictability feels passé, and the technology train is speeding ahead. The key handover happened on the same day it was announced that Donald Trump’s USA is imposing a 15% tariff on all Norwegian goods. In a world of rapid change and new uncertainty, NHH’s role is becoming increasingly important, Thorbjørnsen believes.
«Future leaders must understand economics. They need to be analytically strong, but also speak the language of technology. We will ensure that we educate economists and leaders with deep understanding of value creation, technology, sustainability, and change management. At the same time, we will contribute with excellent and relevant research that businesses and society depend on.»
Recently, the autumn admissions and grade requirements were published. Once again, NHH’s programs proved to be among the most sought-after by high-performing students. The new program Bachelor in Business, Economics and Data Science (BEDS) is on the top 5 list of the most competitive programs in Norway, according to the national admissions service.
Outgoing rector Øystein Thøgersen was a driving force behind the development of the BEDS program. Helge Thorbjørnsen also promises to stay ahead—in his red shoes.
«NHH’s greatest competitive advantage is the quality of our students and staff. Together, we can achieve a lot. Developing new, relevant, and internationally oriented study programs and research centers motivates me,» he says.
…A Bit Impatient
«Moreover: What kind of rector do you want to be?»
«I hope to be a clear and unifying rector — but perhaps also a bit impatient,» he adds.
Joining Helge Thorbjørnsen in the rectorate are three new pro-rectors:
- Katrine V. Løken (42) becomes the new Pro-Rector for Research. She is a professor at the Department of Economics and leads the Centre of Excellence FAIR.
- Steffen Juranek (43) becomes Pro-Rector for Education. He is a professor at the Department of Business and Management Science and has extensive experience in program development and teaching at both master’s and executive levels.
- Kurt Richard Brekke (56) becomes the new Pro-Rector for Academic Resources. He is a professor and head of the Department of Economics.
«I’m excited to get started with a star team of new pro-rectors,» says Thorbjørnsen.
Øystein Thøgersen will spend the autumn on a research stay in Oslo before returning to NHH as a researcher, lecturer, and supervisor. He believes that seasoned veteran Helge Thorbjørnsen doesn’t need any advice as NHH’s new rector. Still, as he walks out the door, he leaves his successor with this reminder:
«There’s a lot of work. But make sure to have fun along the way!»