Carrying DIG insights into SNF
After several years at NHH and the DIG reserach center, Magne Angelshaug has taken on a new challenge at SNF.
A couple of months ago, Angelshaug stepped into his new role as Managing Director of SNF. For him, the position represents an opportunity to combine his diverse background: years of experience from companies like EY and Skandiabanken, and a strong academic foundation from NHH and the DIG research center.
“What I’ve enjoyed the most throughout my career is transforming research into practice, using insights to create value and change in businesses and society. The role at SNF gives me a chance to continue doing exactly that, but with greater focus,” Angelshaug says.
Bringing a dual perspective
Angelshaug’s professional journey spans both the corporate world and academia, a combination he believes is crucial for understanding how research can be put to use outside the university environment. His years at DIG, in particular, became an important turning point.
“DIG was a valuable learning experience. It helped me develop the mindset needed to build the bridge between research and business.”
“After finishing my PhD, my work became even more hands-on. I collaborated closely with business partners and public actors and worked with the DIG leadership group on how to structure such partnerships. The last three to four years at DIG have been especially important in preparing me for SNF,” he adds.
Transition and collaboration
According to Angelshaug, DIG and SNF share a core principle: combining academic rigor with close collaboration with industry. While they operate in different environments, their ambitions are aligned. One of the most significant lessons he brings with him from DIG is the importance of working consistently with partners over time. Moving from DIG into SNF has also highlighted the differences between the two environments.
“While DIG exists within a university setting, where most people hold academic positions at NHH, SNF is more project-focused, working continuously to secure projects, deliver on them, and produce research outputs at the same time.”
Looking ahead, Angelshaug has clear ambitions for SNF. He wants SNF to develop as a strong research institution on its own, while also functioning as an effective tool and bridge between NHH and society. He emphasizes that SNF should both transform research into real value and action, and serve as a link that connects societal challenges with academic insight.
Although he is still early in his role, Angelshaug sees the transition as a positive journey with much to learn. He remains appreciative of his time at DIG and confident that the experiences he gained there will be valuable moving forward.
“I am very appreciative of DIG and the time I had there, and hope that SNF and DIG can also be good partners.”