Mention one of the most important things that characterizes Novozymes?
Untold potential. We have barely scratched the surface of the possible uses of enzymes. We plan on growing much bigger.
How are you going to make this happen?
The key word is partnerships. We now have the technology, processes and organization to make the most of our opportunities, but we need to know more about industries that are new to us where our products could be relevant. That's why we need partners who can tell us about their needs. In turn, we can provide them with enzymatic solutions which can benefit us both, as well as end-users.
On all your ads, your lorries, your letterhead, etc., you say that you are Unlocking the magic of nature. What does this mean?
It describes what we do. We turn to nature to help solve problems. For example, one of our detergent enzymes was originally scraped off a tree trunk in a well-known Copenhagen graveyard. We use nature's own technology to solve industrial problems, thus creating better business and better lives.
What do you mean by better lives?
We improve peoples' lives when we use enzymes to replace harsh chemicals, or to replace unhealthy fats in margarine, or to turn surplus corn into ethanol for fuel, or to lower washing-machine temperatures which saves on energy and other resources. I could go on and on; we are just getting started.
Why do you work for this company?
I've spent more than 20 years of my life working here. I can't imagine ever working for another company. This company was founded by a family with some strong values. Values that I appreciate deeply after working for year s with Mads Øvlisen (the former CEO of Novo Nordisk). Values that I will continue to support, not least in the way I work with our Board of Directors.
And I'm a believer - I believe that enzymes can solve many problems, and that we can be a profitable company and a decent corporate citizen at the same time. We have to do all three. Being a good corporate citizen is actually a requirement in today's society. Companies must act decently or, in the long run, they won't be allowed to stay in business by consumer groups, investors, the media, the Internet chat groups, or customers.