People by PostNord 1 2023 English

Service with a smile

After 42 years of delivering parcels, Kristoffer is a neigborhood celebrity.

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SNEAK PEEK!

Keep your eyes peeled, because they’ll be here soon – our brand-new uniforms.

You’ll probably notice the new colours first, but there are plenty more improvements too. With both increased visibility and a higher level of comfort than before, the new gear’s focus is on staff and sustainability.

Together we make difficult things easier

A GREAT PLACE TO WORK

Together with Rune & Berg Design, PostNord Finland has won a prestigious award at Rakli’s Work Environment Design of the Year competition. The prize was awarded for the head office project carried out in 2021, when PostNord Finland decided to leave the old office for a new one. The involvement of employees, space planning and flexible use of space were all key factors in this project.

WHAT’S

THE

BEST thing about your workplace? How come you’ve stayed there so long? The most common response from people who enjoy being at work is usually ‘my colleagues’. “I have such nice colleagues – we have fun together!” I’ve only been here at PostNord for a little over six months, but I can already give you the same answer.

Over the past year, major changes have taken place at PostNord, changes than none of us can avoid being impacted by. In many ways, it’s been a challenging period, but together, we’ve managed to perform well in spite of this, a fact that should make us feel proud. I think that caring for each other and solving things together is what helps us maintain our energy levels and keep on going.

PostNord is a fantastic place to work, with a wide variety of professions and people from all over the world. What unites us is that we love parcels and letters just as much as we care about the environment and people. And that we like to have fun at work.

In this issue, we’ll take you on a journey around the Nordic region to 101 of our colleagues who also seem to have found that feeling of togetherness that makes working life enjoyable. In my old hometown of Örebro, Ami and her crew keep an eye on the traffic from the Control Tower (kontrolltornet). In an environment where rapid decisions are made one after the other, teamwork and good relationships are the key to success. A picture is worth a thousand words, and this is certainly the case for this article. It’s hard not to feel happy when looking at the pictures in it.

Making a difference in society also brings a sense of pride and joy. In Finland, PostNord sponsors men’s and women’s basketball at the highest level. For some time now, we’ve also been providing financial support to young players from less privileged families. Katja is justifiably proud of what we as a company deliver – both on and off the basketball court.

Each fall, Norwegians come together to support Norway’s biggest telethon that aims to create a better world. PostNord is the event’s proud logistics partner. Ellen talks about the huge amount of positive feedback we get for our efforts. A number of recipients call and email us to thank us and tell us about our friendly drivers and our fast and excellent service.

Dedicated leadership and positive dialogue have turned the once troubled Odense parcel operation into a model workplace. Kenneth says he never dreamed they would get this far in just a few months. Collaboration has been the key to success in this HC Andersen fairy tale.

No workplace is perfect and there are many ways in which we can improve. Caring about your colleagues and helping each other succeed makes it more enjoyable, even when times are tough. And there are many fine examples of this in this issue of People by PostNord.

PEOPLE BY POSTNORD

Editor in Chief: Björn Bergman Editor: Sofia Lundgren Project manager: Jessica Somers Layout Artist: Martin Isaksson Other

Contributors: Josephine Carr, Grethe- Birgitte Friis Jakobsen, Eeva Jousi, Maria Korban, Katja Luotola, Rebecka Mathers, Hannah Myrhed, Haakon Nikolai Olsen and Helen Ridger. Cover image: Oskar Omne Production: OTW Print: V-TAB E-mail: peopleby@postnord.com

The content of the magazine is based on the prevailing circumstances at the time of writing the texts.

BJÖRN BERGMAN Editor in Chief, People by PostNord

In this issue, meet...

Sahar, for whom the job is more than just a job.

Ami, who always listens and never quits.

The team in Årstaberg, where everyone – veterans, temps, newbies and guests – are treated the same.

Adriana, who pays it forward.

Edgars, former officer and shot put champion.

Eeva, who knows how to carry a tune.

56

Wolfpack, who jump through hoops with PostNord.

60 Kristoffer, who is a celebrity in Tyresö.

“I decided I wouldn’t be afraid anymore”

“I’VE ALWAYS LIKED to sing, but I haven’t always been a performer (unless you count a lip sync show I did at school with a classmate – which I don’t). I was always a little too shy to perform, but about three years ago, I decided I wouldn’t be afraid anymore. I took singing lessons and revived my childhood dream of being a singer.

WHEN THE PANDEMIC hit, I suddenly had time to learn how to write and produce my own music. That Christmas, my family got me a good microphone, speakers and the software I needed. I’d never studied music theory and at first, I struggled to create even a single bar of music. The learning curve was quite steep, but now my boyfriend and I have a recording studio in our living room.

I USUALLY START off by singing a melody and then hit the software that I use and look for the chords, and maybe sing nonsensical lyrics. I use virtual instruments, but I like to

add other sounds too. I want to give the listener some ear candy in the production, not just a combination of guitar, bass and drums. My songs are mostly pop and R&B, but I don’t want to be tied to just one genre. Now that I’ve learned how to produce music, I think I could work with other artists if the song I’ve written doesn’t match my style.

I’M TAKING THE first steps in building my artist brand under the name Eva Arco, in honor of my Spanish father. My dream is to be able to write my own music and become a recording and performing artist.”

We want to know more about you, your colleagues and your workplace! E-mail us at peopleby@postnord.com

Eeva’s first single “Venga Vamos” is available on Spotify!

BY POSTNORD

Espoo, Finland

Eeva Jousi, alias Eva Arco

Age: 33. Position: Communications Specialist, Tripla, Finland. Closest colleagues: Katja Luotola and Sari Eronen. At PostNord since: September 2022.

Code of return

RETURNS ARE A necessary evil of ecommerce. Things that look great on a screen may not seem so perfect when you try them on, resulting in a return. Even though the need is as old as e-commerce itself, the way we do returns has pretty much remained the same. You need to print a return shipping document, or the document is provided in the parcel, and then somehow fasten this onto your returned item. Think of all those times you’re happy with your purchase though, and you don’t want to return your order – that piece of paper becomes trash. That entails a huge number of unwanted and unused documents being sent all around the world. In response, PostNord is trying to replace this method by using QR codes instead.

WITH THIS NEW simple and safe solution, the customer simply registers the return and is provided with a QR code. They then bring the QR code and the parcel they wish to return to a service point where the shipping document is printed. Easy and effective.

The QR code has become popular among PostNord customers already and the solution is used by companies such as Decathlon, Sellpy and PROCare.dk. They especially like how it saves time and that they no longer need to print shipping documents for every parcel.

THE END CUSTOMERS seem to like this new solution too. Previously, they needed to visit the service point to return their parcel, so now it’s easier for them to just have the necessary documents printed there. The environmental impact is also reduced with no unnecessary documents being printed and shipped to all customers. A classic win-winwin situation.

Three facts you didn’t know about QR codes

1The design is supposed to look like the black and white pieces on a Go board, the popular Asian game.

2 There is a Dutch coin with a QR code. It is linked to a webpage about the history and design of the coin.

3In 2008, a Japanese company started selling headstones with QR codes on them, linked to a virtual grave site for the deceased.

A QR code is changing the way we process returns and getting rid of the need to own a printer. Unnecessary shipping documents are a thing of the past.

TEXT: RICKARD LINDHOLM

BETWEEN APRIL 2021 and November 2022, PostNord Norway has invested more than one billion Norwegian krone in expanded capacity. Brand new terminals have been built in Bergen, Drammen and Langhus, and in Kristiansand all activity is gathered under the same roof. Former accounting manager Tronn Flittie transferred to the property department last year to strengthen the team in hectic times.

“Both in accounting and property, it is important to have insight into quality and attention to detail. There is also a lot of

finance in property on the accounting and legal side,” he says.

Tronn works closely with property director Ronny Grøtvedt. In fact, the two make up the entire property department in PostNord Norway.

“I am happy to work in a company where you are given opportunities to develop in many different fields. My learning curve has been steep because I entered a new area. Being able to take part of Ronny´s knowledge has been fantastic. Ronny has a unique expertise and knows PostNord better than most,” Tronn states.

New pastures

In April last year I transferred to the property department after ten years as accounting manager. I always want to expand my horizons, and I am incredibly lucky to have started working with property at a time when PostNord is greatly expanding its capacity. It’s a once in a lifetime opportunity.

36%

Farm life

45% 19%

20 years ago, my wife and I bought an 18th century farm in Gudbrandsdalen which we have gradually restored. Today we have 115 cows of the French Charolais breed. We also offer accommodation for tourists and have a small farm bakery. My to do list is never completed, but that's just the way I like it.

Man U/Lesja IL

Football is the subject of many good discussions both at work and in private. My closest colleague is a Liverpool fan, and my three sons respectively support Manchester United, Liverpool and Barcelona. Fortunately, all three of them plays football at the local team Lesja IL, where I have been team manager for many years.

Tronn Flittie

Age: 44.

Position: Project Manager

Property, Alfaset, Norway.

Closest colleagues: Property Director Ronny Grøtvedt, CFO

Runar Steen, Accounting Manager Nina Sætrang and Director Legal & Compliance

Sonia Seyersted.

At PostNord since: 2011.

TEXT: SISSEL FANTOFT PHOTO: LEIKNY HAVIK SKJAERSETH PICKING A BRAIN / TRONN FLITTIE

“A once in a lifetime opportunity”

Joakim Friberg

Production Manager Malmö

Lina Claréus Group Manager Malmö

“No more burnout”

How to turn a cost into a moneymaker –isn’t that the dream? And when the win is not only financial but environmental too, you know you had a truly bright idea.

EVERY day, thousands of pallets pass through PostNord’s terminals, carrying food and electronics – and sometimes even antique furniture. Some of these pallets are forwarded to the end customers but many of them have served their purpose and reached their final destination when they arrive at the terminal. At least that’s how it used to be, until Per Adolfsson, Soft Facility Management Specialist at PostNord Group Real Estate, learned about a new trend.

“A couple of years ago I became aware that some of our partners were interested in pallets in different shapes and condition. The idea is to increase the pallets’ lifespan and not waste any resources,” he says.

PREVIOUSLY, USED AND damaged pallets were treated as waste, crushed, and sent to destruction. But rising costs, the war in Ukraine and a more circular approach to resources have forced a rethink. Instead of paying someone to handle the waste, companies are now eager to get hold of the used pallets, even repairing damaged ones. What was once a loss, has turned into a profit.

“Both the economic and the environmental gains are substantial. A lot of the companies working with this are new, but I see a possibility to grow with them. We have the pallets, and they have the contacts and skills to give these pallets a new life,” says Per.

AT GROUP LEVEL, Per works together with the terminals to see how their waste management can be more cost-effective and

environmentally friendly. Today, not all the terminals have the possibility to handle pallets with partners, due to various circumstances. But in general, more and more terminals are starting to recycle pallets one way or another. One terminal that has enjoyed great success is Malmö.

“Pallets come in all shapes and forms. We get a lot of different types from Europe, and at the beginning, our partner Erico was only interested in the most common ones. But the selection is constantly growing,” says Joakim Friberg, Production Manager in Malmö.

AT THE MALMÖ terminal, a trailer is parked where pallets are gathered. Every month, around 7,000 pallets are sold to Erico, who repair and then sell them on. In a good month they can make around SEK 300,000, compared to some SEK 25,000 they used to have to pay for the destruction of the pallets. PostNord co-workers have really welcomed this new initiative.

“Every month we get feedback on how many pallets we have recycled and how much money we have made. I think it’s great that we’re making a profit and an environmental impact,” says Lina Claréus, Group Manager in Malmö.

Pallets in short

Number of pallets sold in 2022 in total (until September):

144,000

Profit: 1,722,205 SEK

Per Adolfsson Soft Facility Management Specialist

Number of trees saved: 2,572

TEXT: RICKARD LINDHOLM PHOTO: JOHAN BÄVMAN

Green Corridors

The idea behind green corridors is rather simple, yet very effective: by ensuring fossil-free deliveries between the biggest cities in each country, a significant number of parcels can be included, all the way from the retailer to the end-consumer. This results in 3,175 tons lower carbon dioxide emissions.

Sweden

“We often say that we strive to be climateleaders, and this concept is really easy to understand for everyone. This is exactly how we want to work, focusing on the projects with the biggest impact. With green corridors we concentrate on where the parcels are going. Thus, 40 percent of all parcels to customers are included – that was 3,9 million Swedish parcels in August 2022 alone,” says Axel Scheutz Godin, Green Technology Lead. Apart from PostNord’s goal to be fossilfree by 2030, the green corridors are also a result of the company listening to customers’ wishes. Today, many e-commerce retailers demand sustainable logistics to help them reach their own goals.

“This is just the beginning. In 2023, we’re probably adding one or two more cities to the corridor system. We’re also looking into creating green corridors for letters too, where a large proportion of our volumes are already transported by train between our terminals,” says Donny Ringius, Head of Transformation.

They may not be visible at all, but the newly launched green corridors are a pretty big deal and make a powerful impact. Today, thanks to these green corridors, around 40 percent of all parcels to Swedish recipients are delivered fossil-free. And that’s just the beginning.

TEXT: SOFIA LUNDGREN

Donny Ringius, Head of Transformation, Production in PostNord Sweden

Axel Scheutz Godin, Green Technology Lead, PostNord Group

Norway

In Norway, a green corridor has been opened between Alfaset and Larvik with biogas cars, which also have collections at Kunde in Larvik. PostNord will also try out green corridors with electric container cars on scheduled services between the largest terminals, such as Alfaset, Langhus, and Drammen, from June 2023. There are already established green corridors in Oslo and the surrounding area. This means that MyPack Collect has become a more sustainable product, which both customers and consumers greatly appreciate.

Denmark

In Denmark, PostNord is focusing more on more on fossil-free last mile transport i.e. ‘green last miles’. That’s what customers are demanding right now, so that’s where both money and HVO are spent. In 2023, the plan is to have implemented green last miles in the four biggest cities in Denmark – Copenhagen, Århus, Odense and Aalborg – both by using electric vehicles and HVO fuel. What PostNord does must be long-term solutions, not temporary quick fixes.

Finland

PostNord Finland is moving rapidly towards electrification in the last mile, with a primary focus on the so-called triangle area, consisting of the Helsinki capital area, Tampere, and Turku. Simultaneously, linehauls and mainly delivery trucks will be switched from diesel to HVOs in this area. The first green corridors will be in place in 2023, and fully implemented in the triangle area for all services by the end of 2025.

Anders Rickardsson is a welcome guest.

Ibrahim Shahein wants to grow within PostNord.

Mikael Kivikunnas is a true veteran. Felix Norman is up and coming.

WE CARE FOR OUR PEOPLE

We believe that everyone working with PostNord should have a good and safe workplace, where they work under safe conditions.

And by ‘everyone’ we do mean everyone – in the Årstaberg terminal, this means veteran worker Micke, newly employed Felix and contracter Ibrahim. Even Anders, who’s just passing by to load and unload goods.

Why do we

So, how do we do it?

Already in 2021, we made a detailed analysis of our operations from a human right perspective, a so-called Human Rights Due Diligence. The outcome: three highlighted areas that have the greatest impact on PostNorders and the people close to us, i.e. all those who work with, or for, PostNord.

OK, which areas are these?

1. Occupational health and safety (OHS), both at our terminals and during parcel deliveries.

2. Working conditions for drivers of contracted transport providers.

3. Working conditions for employees of other suppliers.

Ok but wait, this is not only for PostNord employees?

No, we have committed to a systematic approach at PostNord to ensure safe workplaces for our own employees, as well as contracted staff, plus fair conditions for truck drivers at external transport companies and employees at our suppliers. Because we truly care about our people!

That first part makes sense, but why do we include truck drivers at external transport companies and employees at our suppliers?

Yes! In short, PostNord aims to improve working conditions for the approximately 740,000 truck drivers in Europe. We are participating in the Responsible Trucking initiative together with manufacturers and users in our value chain, such as IKEA Supply AG, H&M Group, Scania Group, Volvo Group, Raben Group, MAN, BMW Group, and Maersk, to name some of the big global stakeholders.

Why is that?

As a leading logistics company, we have a great responsibility both for our operations and our supply chain. Due to increasing competition, price pressure in the sector and complex cross-border legislation, the logistics sector faces many social challenges. They stem from drivers’ working conditions, including difficulties in finding workers, breaches of human rights, non-compliance with legislation, major fraud issues, and road safety violations. We want to change all that.

What say does PostNord have in this matter?

We purchase goods and services to a value of approximately SEK 20 billion, from around 15,000 suppliers every year. By setting requirements for the health and safety and working conditions of their employees, we have an impact on the entire industry.

Ok, how is that done?

The Responsible Trucking initiative has developed the Truck Transport Social Guidelines to improve working conditions

When we say ‘We care for our people’, it’s not empty words. Rather the opposite: it’s one of three commitments in our sustainability agenda, and it is clearly linked to the UN’s Sustainable Development goals.

TEXT: SOFIA LUNDGREN PHOTO: OSKAR OMNE

care?

of truck drivers. Issues range from ensuring enough rest time and that driving shifts are not too long, to protecting drivers' health and safety and make sure they are fairly paid for their work.

What does that mean in concrete terms for an average PostNord terminal?

PostNord has committed to implement the Truck Transport Social Guidelines and the work began during 2022. Among other things, this means that all drivers, no matter

where they’re employed, will be offered access to clean water, toilets, and weather protection when loading and off loading at PostNord’s terminals.

Why are fair conditions such an important issue for PostNord?

Everyone who works for PostNord is entitled to fair working conditions. Access to water and sanitation are basic human rights. It’s the least we can do.

By setting requirements for the working conditions of their employees, we have an impact on the entire industry.

“I liked it, so I ended up staying”

BACK in the 80s, Mikael Kivikunnas was an adventurous 20-year-old who wanted a temporary job to save up money for travel. He ended up working at what was then called “Posten”. That was his first foot in the door of the company that subsequently transformed into PostNord. After his travels, Mikael got a full-time job at Posten as a terminal worker and truck driver at the general cargo terminal (SGT).

“I liked it, so I ended up staying”, he says with a big smile.

In 2015 Mikael celebrated 25 years at the company and was honored with a gold watch. Today, he has 32 years of experience working for what now is PostNord.

“It’s fantastic here. I like how we work together as a team, and I like our sense of community. We always help each other out and have fun at work. That’s at the heart of everything!”

For his first 14 years, Mikael worked at the Segeltorp parcel terminal, followed by more than ten years at Tomteboda and two years at Stockholm Klara.

A few years ago, he transferred to Årstaberg. One of the advantages of working for a big corporation is that it offers different workplaces and a variety of challenges. Even though the job as a terminal worker is pretty much the same everywhere, Mikael enjoys the change of scenery.

“I think it’s a good thing, changing your environment. A new workplace and new colleagues give you new energy,” he says.

Mikael also appreciates that PostNord always gives people the opportunity to acquire new skills and grow within the company, like when he learned how to drive a counterbalance forklift truck. For now, he is happy with his current role.

“I think it’s great here. The communication with our team leaders is excellent and they keep us well informed. We also have one-onone meetings with our production manager twice a year.”

Should he have anything on his mind, Mikael knows that the door to his manager’s office is always open.

“It’s just a few steps away if I want to talk,” he says.

Mikael turned 59 last year, and retirement isn’t too far away. PostNord has been his only employer throughout his career, but Mikael is happy where he is and has no plans to move on.

“My plan is to work here until my retirement.”

After many years at different postal terminals, veteran Mikael Kivikunnas knows what needs to get done. He has been working at PostNord for over 30 years – and still enjoys going to work every day.

TEXT: SOFIA ZETTERMAN PHOTO: OSKAR OMNE

My plan is to work here until my retirement.

Mikael Kivikunnas

Age: 59.

Position: Terminal Worker, Årstaberg, Sweden.

Closest colleagues: Magnus Sundström, Celal Köyluoglu, Michiele Fessha, Rickard Myrdahl and Nabil Rabaa.

At PostNord since: 1990.

Felix Norman

Age: 26.

Position: Terminal Worker, Årstaberg, Sweden.

Closest colleagues: Mikael Kivikunnas, Ludvik Lundmark and Tobias Leijon.

At PostNord since: 2020.

DURING the pandemic in 2020, Felix Norman, who was at that time a student, got tired of school where he was studying aerospace and aeronautical engineering – and yes, that is basically rocket science. He wanted a break from his studies and started to work a few hours now and then at PostNord’s Årstaberg terminal.

“They called when they needed me. But in 2021 I worked 50 percent and since October last year, I’ve been working full time,” Felix explains.

In the short time since Felix first came on board, he has learned most of the tasks that need to get done at the terminal. His special skills make him a great asset at PostNord.

“We help each other when we need to”

PHOTO:

“PostNord has given me the chance to try almost everything you can do here at the terminal. I learned how to drive a truck, and I’m also trained in how to handle dangerous goods, like corrosives and flammable stuff. It’s not like we have nuclear goods or anything, but I’m now one of the four people who know how to deal with dangerous goods,” Felix says.

He likes the more challenging tasks and has also learned how to process goods bound for Norway that need to go through customs.

“I’m backup for the guy handling goods for customs, which must be approved by the customs administrator.”

Felix prefers it when his days are busy.

“Breaks are boring. I just sit there and wait for the break to end. I want something to do to make the day go faster.”

Good leadership is important for wellbeing at work, and Felix gets on well with the management at the terminal.

“My colleagues and I can always talk to the managers, and the atmosphere at work is good. We help each other when we need to, and we chat to kill time when there is less to do. Since I work most shifts, I know almost everyone here,” he says.

What the future holds for Felix is still written in the stars. Maybe he will pick up his studies again, but first, he wants to work for a few years.

“There are always opportunities to transfer to something new at PostNord. I’d like to work with something like IT support.”

For now, the dream is to keep his full-time job so he can move out of his parents’ home and get his own apartment.

In a really short time, Felix has learned how to drive a truck and handle dangerous goods. So, despite being fairly new at PostNord, he has already become a key player at the Årstaberg terminal.

TEXT: SOFIA ZETTERMAN

OSKAR OMNE

“There’s no hassle here”

After 35 years at Clas Ohlson’s customer service in Insjön, Anders Rickardsson became a truck driver. Today, he drives Clas Ohlson goods for PostNord and the terminals in Årstaberg, Sundsvall and Veddesta have become a second home.

ANDERS RICKARDSSON is happy behind the wheel of a big truck. He works mostly nights and being on the road with only local radio for company is a big change from working in customer service.

“I think it’s a pleasant job. I’m on my own a lot, but I still get to meet people from different parts of Sweden. It broadens my horizons to see Clas Ohlson. And I always meet new people when I arrive at the terminals – it’s nice,” Anders says.

Anders visits Årstaberg twice a week while he’s out on the road in his truck. Despite admitting to being lousy at remembering people’s names, he feels at home when he comes to PostNord Årstaberg.

“People here are nice in general, and everybody is really helpful. I’ve never encountered any controversies,” Anders says.

When his truck arrives, he quickly gets assigned to a loading bay to reload his truck with goods to be returned to Clas Ohlson. Normally, he stays about an hour at the terminal before taking off again – just enough time to reload the truck, use the men’s room and take a short walk to stretch his legs.

“Of course, there are different company cultures at different workplaces. But there’s no hassle here. If I need, say a forklift, upon arrival – WOOSH – I get it in no time. Someone always comes by to ask if I need any help. There’s a good atmosphere here,” Anders says before leaving for Insjön again.

TEXT: SOFIA ZETTERMAN PHOTO: OSKAR OMNE

Anders Rickardsson Age: 60.

Lives: Insjön. Position: Truck Driver.

FOCUS

Ibrahim’s dream job

driver Ibrahim Shahein. He fled from his home country, Syria, during the war and made it through nine other countries before finally arriving in Sweden. Without his family, without speaking the language, without a place to call home and without a job. But with a big dream:

terminal

“As a little boy I got to ride in a big truck with my uncle who had a trucking company, and since then it’s been my dream to one day drive a really big truck myself,” Ibrahim says with a smile.

Two years ago, he fulfilled his childhood dream: he got his truck driving license and was hired as a driver by the staffing agency Rekryteringsgruppen. From day one, Ibrahim was outsourced to the PostNord terminal in Årstaberg and finally got to take on his own delivery route, driving his very own truck. Today he delivers goods to companies such as H&M and Clas Ohlsson.

Before becoming a truck driver, Ibrahim worked several other jobs to get by, and he learned the hard way the importance of a decent workplace and fair and supportive management.

“I worked a lot of different jobs in restaurants, and I also delivered fruit and vegetables ... but those jobs were too stressful,” says Ibrahim, summing it up.

Driving a really big truck has been Ibrahim’s dream since he was a boy in Syria. Little did he know that he would make the dream come true 20 years later – on the other side of the world – working for PostNord.

TEXT: SOFIA ZETTERMAN PHOTO: OSKAR OMNE

IT’S BEEN A long journey to the PostNord

in Årstaberg for truck

Ibrahim Shahein

Age: 27.

Position: Truck Driver, Årstaberg, Sweden.

Closest colleagues: Deniz Erdal, Yogesh Patel, Ange-Desiree Obrou and Naveed Afzal.

At PostNord since: Outsourced to PostNord for 18 months.

And this 27-year-old refugee has had enough stress to last him a lifetime already. He also had a bad experience working for an employer who made him work extra hours –without getting paid.

Today Ibrahim is happy at work and does what he always wanted to do.

“PostNord is a great employer. It’s better here than all the other places I’ve worked at. What I like best is that they never stress us out or put pressure on us drivers – we just drive safely and calmly and take our breaks on time. PostNord also truly cares about making customers happy, and that’s important too. It feels great to work here!”

Delivering goods to different customers in the inner city can be stressful, with traffic jams, rush hour traffic and parking problems, not to mention maneuvering a 12-meter truck on the narrow streets of the city. But Ibrahim loves it. And he already has experience of driving all over the Swedish capital and has learned the tricks of the trade.

“I’ve been to Östermalm, Södermalm, Lidingö ... everywhere.”

He is grateful for his traffic manager planning skills. Great planning makes all the difference for drivers. At Årstaberg the drivers only cover one area of Stockholm per shift, which not only makes planning the route that much easier, but it’s also more environmentally friendly – a crucial point.

“I like the fact that we think about the environment – it’s good to only drive to one part of the city,” Ibrahim says.

GREAT LEADERSHIP IS crucial to creating a great work environment. Ibrahim, who works different shifts, knows all the managers at the terminal.

“My managers are great, too. They keep me informed and let me drive different routes and try to teach me everything at PostNord. It’s good to get the chance to learn as much as possible.”

He is happy with the working conditions at PostNord, and just like everybody else we meet at Årstaberg Terminal, he is especially grateful for his lovely co-workers.

“Lunch breaks are a chance to meet colleagues every day and sit and talk. It’s always nice, no matter what shift I work. Since I sometimes work during the day and sometimes late evenings, I meet different people all the time – but everybody is friendly,” Ibrahim says.

Now Ibrahim is dreaming of a bright future at PostNord and is eager to grow within the company:

“I want to get my CE license so I can drive with a trailer – that means an even bigger truck of at least 22 meters.”

For now, he has a residence permit, but he can’t wait to apply for his Swedish citizenship. The cold country that welcomed him seven years ago has become his home.

Now he hopes to get hired by PostNord directly.

“I want to grow with PostNord. They give me the feeling that I belong here, and that I’m part of the PostNord community,” Ibrahim says.

What I like best is that they never stress us out or put pressure on us drivers – we just drive safely and calmly and take our breaks on time.

Ibrahims’ dream of becoming a truck driver came true. Now he hopes for a future within PostNord.

I like the fact that we think about the environment – it’s good to only drive to one part of the city.

A good workplace – for everyone

Play table tennis at work? Sure! It’s fun and keeps the co-workers active during their breaks.

Sedat Yayla

Age: 34.

Position: Production Manager, Årstaberg, Sweden. Closest colleagues: Eva Appelqvist, Muhammed Gömlek and Oskar Braf. At PostNord since: 2013.

SINCE TERMINAL MANAGER Eva Appelqvist initiated a major reorganization at Årstaberg a year ago, things have improved for all employees. Production manager Sedat Yayla now manages both the truck drivers and the terminal employees during his shifts, giving him a better overview.

“Regardless of what department we work for, we all work for the good of PostNord and help each other out. If there’s a staff shortage somewhere, we move someone from another department to where the need is the greatest. Nobody only works for distribution or general cargo handling – we all work for the terminal,” Sedat says and continues:

“We also do things together to strengthen our sense of community. This summer 60 of us went out for dinner and a fun night together at Gröna Lund amusement park. We also have an annual Christmas dinner that is greatly appreciated.”

SAFETY IS ALWAYS top of mind, and as part of the Responsible Trucking Initiative, PostNord treats every employee or contractor that enters the terminal as part of the family,

regardless of whether they work for a staffing agency, as external drivers or are PostNorders.

“Everybody who comes to our terminal has the same rights and benefits as our own drivers and coworkers. Employees who work for other companies who come here are welcome to use all our facilities – toilets, lunchroom and staff recreation areas. The same goes for our drivers – if they go to Nynäshamn, they take their breaks at the nearest post office or mail terminal there.”

DESPITE THE LACK of space, the management in Årstaberg has tried to create areas where staff can get together and enjoy their breaks. The employees themselves are very active in coming up with new suggestions on how to improve their terminal, which so far has resulted in a new table for table tennis and a popular pool table that gets the staff moving, along with a library shelf where employees exchange books, Sadat explains.

“We listen to our coworkers and try to create the best workplace possible for them, according to their wishes. The work to improve our workplace is never-ending!”.

Cooperation is the key to creating a great workplace, according to Sedat, Production Manager at the Årstaberg Terminal. And every employee or contractor – whether external, hired, extra or full-time – is treated as part of the PostNord family.

TEXT: SOFIA ZETTERMAN PHOTO: OSKAR OMNE

6,161 Age distribution: –29 30–50 51–

1,584 20% 43% 37%

Gender

18,251

POSTNORD

69%

representation all employees: Men Women

14%

IN THE BEGINNING / EDGARS DAMBITIS

Edgars Dambitis

Age: 36.

Position: Traffic Manager and Group Leader, Veddesta, Sweden.

Closest colleagues: Olle Pettersson, Christian Pettersson – and more than 100 drivers.

At PostNord since: 2012.

“I like to str tch my limits”

FORTY-THREE minutes – on a good day. Fifty if the weather is bad. That’s how long it takes traffic manager and group leader Edgars Dambitis to cycle the 20 kilometers to work in the morning. He also hits the PostNord gym – a place he refers to as his “meditation room” – during every lunch break.

Staying in shape, physically as well as mentally, is in this ex-athlete’s DNA. For two years in a row, he was the junior shot put champion in his home country, Latvia, and he also has a background as a professional military officer.

“It runs in the family. My dad was a police officer, my uncle the president’s bodyguard. I like the discipline and the hierarchy – structure is necessary to get results,” says Edgars.

But when his partner Kristine was offered a job in Sweden in 2012, Edgars didn’t

hesitate to leave his military career and tag along with her. So he sees stepping out of his comfort zone as more of a calling than an issue. The Latvian officer ended up working in the forests of Dalarna before moving to Stockholm, where he studied Swedish and took a job as a bread truck driver, getting to know the streets of the city.

“You have to try new things! I like to stretch my limits and juggle several tasks at once,” he says, smiling.

AND SO HIS career in the delivery business took off. Today he has eight years at PostNord behind him and big plans to improve the future efficiency, structure and work ethic in his department. In his first year, he worked at Tomteboda as a distribution driver and learned how to navigate the narrow streets of Östermalm, as well as the runway at Arlanda Airport, in a 15 meter-long truck. When Tomteboda closed, he was transferred to Veddesta terminal as a reinforcement driver,

Edgars Dambitis has never been afraid of stepping out of his comfort zone and trying new things. As a former military officer and shot put champion, aiming for the top has always been in his DNA.

Now, the Latvian-born PostNord employee is taking on a new challenge – as a production manager.

TEXT: SOFIA ZETTERMAN

PHOTO: PETER KNUTSON

"In a way, I’m like a dad to my drivers. We’re all on the same team," Edgars says.

It’s all about priorities. To grow we need to devote our time and energy to the right things.

with no set schedule and thousands of new addresses and customers to keep track of.

The qualified engineer and career officer had just the right attitude to grow within PostNord. After seven years as a driver, Edgars was handpicked for a group leader position.

“My boss liked how I talked to and supported other drivers. You have to find solutions quickly and try to avoid conflict when everybody is under pressure,” he says.

AND PRESSURE IS what this driven, systematic problem-solver thrives on. Edgars gets the job done. And he does so with a smile.

“I’m trained to read and interpret my team quickly. When I see someone on the edge of a breakdown, I take them for a coffee or a walk to discuss how we can improve their day. We’re all human. In a way, I’m like a dad to my drivers. We’re all on the same team!”

He describes his leadership as “50 percent dictator, 50 percent delegator”. As an officer he trained soldiers in telecommunications, and he studied psychology and pedagogy to learn how to do so more efficiently. These skills come in handy in his role as traffic manager for about 100 drivers.

“I delegate responsibility while overseeing that things get done. If you’re controlling employees and telling them what to do all the time, they don’t grow. Every single person here needs to feel that they’re an important link in the chain.”

Despite claiming to be a semi-dictator, it’s easy to tell that Edgars is well-liked among his co-workers.

There is a constant exchange of smiles and jokes in the Veddesta hallways, and the dynamic nature of the job makes him prepared get on his bike at 4:45 every morning, despite being an evening person.

“One day it’s quiet, the next it’s like a action movie – all sorts of things can happen. Last Monday, two cars broke down, a driver started vomiting on the highway and one engine failed completely. My biggest challenge then is to make the right decision at the right

time. If we encounter a problem, I need to think on my feet: “What should we do, how do we fix it? In what order? Which resources are needed?”

The disciplined ex-officer excels in logical thinking and thrives on challenges. His motto is to always give it a try. No matter what.

“Sometimes you have to take on a challenge that is greater than your skills and experience. Just try – don’t be afraid to fail. You can always go back to the old way of doing things.”

Now Edgars has his sights set on a production manager position – and is full of ideas for how to improve efficiency. His solution-oriented attitude was a great asset during the management training course he attended. And he is eager to make a difference.

“The first thing I want to do is optimize and fine-tune our production so that it works more efficiently,” he says.

STILL, HIS PRIORITY will always be to take care of his co-workers – as they are PostNord’s greatest asset.

“I try to help and spread joy and motivation every day. It doesn’t cost anything to have fun at work. The job isn’t just about making money – we spend a lot of time here, so feeling good at work is the key to delivering quality, efficiency and a great work ethic.”

Edgars tips for future leaders

1 Know yourself – your strengths and your weaknesses.

2 Listen to your team. Making them enjoy their work is the key to success.

3 Have fun at work! Include everyone, communicate and help each other.

4 Dare to try new things! If something doesn’t work, you can always go back to the old way of doing it.

We want to know what you think about People by PostNord! Just scan the code and answer some questions.

Every single person here needs to feel that they’re an important link in the chain.

Edgar’s sense of discipline goes beyond work and into the gym.

Dedicated leadership anda good dialogue were key factorsin Odense’s transformation froma troublesome workplace intoa model one.

Veikka and Rosa are the

brave faces of PostNord Finland.

G

THE GUIDE

It’s easy as 1,2,3

addition to the TPL teaminMarkaryd

ABC – is there anyone working at PostNord who doesn’t know what this stands for? Probably not, but being and acting Accountable, Brave and Committed can feel like it´s easier said than done. Don't worry, here’s some inspiration for you.

Taking our well-being seriously

Negative moods turned to high job satisfaction at record breaking speed at PostNord Strålfors Norway.

IN 2021 , the annual employee survey, PostNord FOCUS, showed a notable drop in results at the production department PostNord Strålfors in Norway.

“Well-being was at 64, and the assessment of the immediate manager at 70; both a significant decrease from previous year. Several areas were assessed below 60, an obviously low score,” explains Lena Valen, Head of HR.

“The production unit handles physical mail and had been through several rounds of downsizing. It's no secret that people send fewer and fewer letters to each other, and production has endured the consequences of this over several years,” she adds.

Measures were immediately taken after HR noticed the drastic drop all over the FOCUS results from the production unit in 2021.

“We initiated a more comprehensive follow-up process than what was previously done. Together with the managers, it was agreed on that HR conducted the first two meetings alone with each team. This was done to enable the employees to give honest feedback, also about the manager, which sometimes can be difficult in a group setting led by the manager,” Lena says.

CREATING A BOND

Lone Nummedal is one of the those working in production who have noticed a big difference in the workplace. They have gone from uncertainty and dissatisfaction to newfound motivation and job satisfaction.

“Today we get a lot more information about what is going on, both at meetings

and by email. That is a big improvement. I am happy to work in a company that takes our well-being seriously,” she says.

In addition, regular social activities contribute to an even more pleasant work environment.

“For me, the colleagues are the best thing about the job, and meeting outside the workplace from time to time makes us bond even stronger,” she says.

HONEST FEEDBACK

While PostNord Strålfors previously was located at Haraldrudveien in Oslo, in 2020, production moved to Langhus a few miles further south.

“A move is a big transition – and on top this one took place in the middle of a pandemic. It naturally takes some time before changes turn into new habits and routines,” Lena says.

Production was previously characterized by constant downsizing; new people are now being hired instead.

“That also contributes to the well-being – the job feels safer now,” Lone points out.

APPROVED BY THE EMPLOYEES

Three meetings were held with each department to examine the background for the results and discuss measures. It turned out the pandemic itself was not the cause of the drop, but surrounding circumstances affected the uncertainty, such as redundancies, downsizing, distance from and communication with the manager and department.

“On an overall level, the communication had not been good enough in a time of great uncertainty. We were too busy talking about COVID and infection prevention rules that

we forgot about other events,” Lena admits.

The managers attended the meetings later on, mainly discussing focus areas and measures going forward.

“The action plan presented to the team by the manager, was based on feedback given in the first meetings, communicated to the managers by HR –approved by the employees,” she adds.

HISTORIC RESULTS

Based on the response, several changes were made.

“Having regular touchpoints – not only concerning challenges, but also about things that are going well, is extremely important. That’s why we have introduced monthly general meetings, where the agenda is based on input from the employees. In addition, we send out two newsletters each month with big and small news,” Lena explains.

The result:

“For the first time in history, in 2022 we got a production with no red numbers –and mostly green ones. Well-being has increased to 71, up 18 points, and loyalty to 79, up 26 points,” she says.

How did this happen? By listening carefully to everyone of Lone and her colleagues.

TEXT: SISSEL FANTOFT

PHOTO:

LEIKNY HAVIK SKJÆRSETH

Lone Nummedal Age: 35. Position: Production Worker, PostNord Strålfors, Norway. At PostNord since: 2011.

Lena Valen Age: 31.

Position: Head of HR, PostNord Strålfors, Norway. At PostNord since: 2017.

This works for PostNord Strålfors

1 Monthly town-hall meeting/status meetings with the whole company.

2 Greater focus on positive things that happen in the company.

3 Two newsletters a month.

4 Regular social activities.

5 Low hanging fruits: Simple measures such as fruit baskets, information screens, upgrading the coffee machines etc.

Development over the last years

The PostNord FOCUS results for 2022 show a general improvement across the whole of PostNord Strålfors Norway.

Veikka and Rosa’s

Instagram take ver

IN EARLY October, followers of @PostNordSuomi were treated to a surprise video in the company’s Instagram stories, as Rosa Larsson’s smiling face and a happy wave welcomed viewers to follow the company’s customer service week on the app. She did it first in Finnish and then in English, with her cats making a cameo appearance.

“I’ve been working as a customer service agent for a little more than a year, and I’m here to tell you about my workday,” she said.

The response was positive, so when the communication department asked her if she was interested in doing the same in 2022, she didn’t hesitate.

“I was much more careful last year, but this time I decided to get out of my comfort zone,” she adds.

“The idea was for us to talk about our work at customer service. I know I have a tendency to be overly formal, so I made an effort to keep it light. I improvised a lot,” she says.

IN HER NEXT story, she performed an amusing rap for customers.

At PostNord, ABC leadership (accountable, brave and committed) is encouraged, and opening up about your job can certainly be considered brave. Rosa and Veikka Liski downplay their courage – which is probably the clearest indication that they actually are brave.

“I think most of the followers are my colleagues but sure, I think I’m pretty brave, but it’s something I’ve learned over the

years through experience,” Rosa says.

“Instagram is an official PostNord channel, but we were given pretty free rein. I liked it. The freedom kept the stories fresh, real and casual, which is pretty much the PostNord way of doing things in general. At PostNord everyone is allowed to be exactly who they are,” she says.

On Tuesday, it was Veikka’s turn. And if Rosa’s posts had been serene, Veikka kicked things off with a bang, by posting a video of his screen, with electronic music blasting and a ‘GOTTA GO FAST’ slogan pasted at the top of the page.

“I wanted to talk about my work and our department, because it doesn’t get a lot of attention,” says Veikka who, as technical support, often works in the background.

JUST LIKE ROSA, Veikka wanted to keep it light and bring his own personality into the stories, including losing at Skribblio, a drawing and guessing game. He also posted photos from his home office and encouraged people to ask questions.

“The fact that I worked from home that day was also a choice – I wanted to show how we work in a home office environment,” he says.

“I was surprised by how many questions I got. All in all, the response was overwhelmingly positive,” he adds.

Rosa, too, added interactive parts to her stories, including questions and an emojimeter.

“I guess people liked the content, because everybody pushed the meter all the way to the right. I think they appreciated the fact that I showed another side of myself,” she says.

Tips and tricks for social media

1

If you’re considering posting something workrelated, have a look at PostNord’s social media guidelines first!

2 It’s called social media Keep it interactive. It makes content creation easier, too.

3 Be aware of trends and adapt to them.

4 Don’t only use text.

5 Video is engaging, but don’t forget the subtitles!

6 Don’t listen to comments, everything is OK as long as you don’t harm others.

Customer service agents are used to hearing from disgruntled customers. Inviting further comments by taking over the company’s Instagram stories – and even posting videos of yourself – is probably not for the faint of heart.

TEXT: RISTO PAKARINEN

PHOTO: RONI REKOMAA

See Veikka and Rosa's takeover at @postnordsuomi

Age: 29.

Position: Customer Service Agent, Sales Excellence Specialist, Helsinki, Finland.

Closest colleagues: Josefina Honkanen. At PostNord since: 2021.

Age: 26.

Position: Technical Support, Helsinki, Finland.

Closest colleagues: Nico Miettinen, Marika Ilvonen, Sami Martikainen, Wilma Vainionpää and Katya Cankaya. At PostNord since: 2019.

Veikka Liski

Rosa Larsson

We unleash the power of

diversity

work peaks, such as Black Friday and Christmas. And to fill those spots, TPL Ljungby needed to look beyond their own county.

That’s when neighboring municipality Markaryd stepped in and introduced a solution to help support both newly arrived residents and TPL. Markaryd created a brand-new program for newly arrived immigrants who often have a hard time getting a foot in the door of the Swedish labor market.

THE SEED for the successful collaboration between Markaryd Municipality and PostNord TPL Ljungby was an article in the local paper about TPL Ljungbys’ big new e-commerce customer. Onboarding the new client meant that TPL was looking to hire up to 200 new co-workers to handle upcoming

During the four-week-long training program, 20 people were given the unique opportunity to both study Swedish and learn how the Swedish labor market works. The trainees learned about labor laws and regulations, maternity leave, and sick days, as well as how to write a CV and behave in a job interview. Things that may be taken for granted by someone born and raised here, like the fact that “eight o’clock” means “eight o’clock sharp”, were also covered.

The language barrier was the main obstacle for most applicants as basic Swedish communication skills are required for employment. Nonetheless, after four weeks of training, TPL hired five of the applicants.

In a successful collaboration between Markaryd Municipality and TPL Ljungby, five new employees have been hired and integrated into the Swedish labor market. For Sahar Hassani from Afghanistan, the new job was a real game changer.

TEXT: SOFIA ZETTERMAN PHOTO: MAGDALENA BÄCKMAN

”If we had a good general feeling about the person, we wanted to give them a chance, even if their Swedish skills needed improvement. When given the opportunity to work with us, many have proven to be very professional and they do a fantastic job,” says Johan Nyman, Team Leader at TPL Ljungby.

He emphasizes the value of diversity:

“We live in a multicultural society, and our staff must reflect that. We are a multicultural company and aim for equal gender distribution. In Ljungby we are almost 50 percent men and 50 percent women.”

However, diversity comes with its own challenges. One is understanding each other despite different cultural backgrounds and upbringings. Still, Johan only sees advantages with a more diverse work team.

“It means we must rethink things and do

better as an employer. We must develop our training programs and our communication for new employees, and use more visual training aids like videos, to make it easier for new employees to get into our work processes.”

ONE OF THE newly integrated members of the TPL family is 22-year-old Sahar Hassani from Afghanistan. She arrived here three years ago and testifies that integrating into Swedish society is difficult.

”It was hard in the beginning. Hard to understand both the language and how the Swedish society works,” Sahar explains.

Eager to establish a new life here, she started learning Swedish at home through YouTube.

“But I knew I needed to get out of my apartment and find a job to get to know people,” she says.

The job changed

We live in a multicultural society, and our staff must reflect that. We are a multicultural company and aim for equal gender distribution.

Sahar's life and helped her integrate into the Swedish society.

”A diverse work force makes us a better employer”, says Team Leader Johan Nyman.

Sahar, who is a midwife, looked for jobs everywhere. She was determined to make it in her new country – a country where women have the opportunity to be part of the labor market and to be equal to men.

May 9, 2022 was a big turning point for Sahar. That’s when she was employed by PostNord TPL and really started to integrate in the Swedish society.

“When I started learning Swedish and got to know people, everything felt better. It was great to study and work at the same time. It’s hard to make friends in Sweden, but now I have my colleagues in Markaryd,” Sahar says.

To Sahar, the job also means being independent, making her own money, and becoming a part of the labor market. It has changed her life.

“Thank God I got the job! Everything is great, my colleagues, the work environment, my salary. I’m very social and I like talking to everyone. We all come from different countries, but everyone here is my friend.”

She feels safe in her new home country.

“In Afghanistan, women are not allowed to study or work, we couldn’t go to the gym, ride a bike, or go bowling. It was really difficult,” Sahar explains.

Working and living here has opened new doors. Now she plans to move into her own apartment closer to work and is counting the days until her husband can also come to Sweden. Currently, she is also teaching a new Swedish employee how things work at TPL.

Team Leader Johan Nyman is pleased to have Sahar on his team.

“I have a great work team and I’m happy to see them develop and grow. We hope that we can continue to collaborate with the municipalities and integrate more people into the labor market,” he concludes.

Sahar Hassini

Age: 22.

Position: Terminal Worker, PostNord TPL Ljungby, Sweden. Closest colleagues: Camilla Lennartsson, Fatlinda Rustemi, Vesna Bogeva, Smezama Stamenkovic and Haifaa Bazzara. At PostNord TPL since: May 2022.

When I started learning Swedish and got to know people, everything felt better. It was great to study and work at the same time. It’s hard to make friends in Sweden, but now I have my colleagues in Markaryd.

The job means financial independence for Sahar from Afghanistan, but it also means being part of the TPL community.

Remember the Hans Christian Andersen fairy tale, where the ugly duckling grows into a beautiful swan? That’s one way of describing the rapid transformation Parcel Operations in Odense has undergone.

TEXT: LISE HANNIBAL PHOTO: SIMONE DUPONT

DEDICATED leadership and a good dialogue have turned the once troublesome Parcels Operations in Odense into a model workplace. “I wouldn’t have dreamed we could get this far in a matter of months,” says Kenneth Christensen, Director of Parcel Operations, Region Southern Jutland and Funen.

In early 2022, Parcel Operations in Odense was not doing so well, Paw Nielsen, postal worker and trade union representative recalls. “Odense was battling low productivity, low satisfaction, too much overtime and too many sick days,” he says.

PAW BELIEVES THAT constructive communication between the management and employees has been crucial to bringing about change.

“Former leaders have tried solving the problems using more ‘stick’ than ‘carrot’. But the stick doesn’t change the culture. Finding the source of the problems and coming up with realistic solutions together does,” he says.

Working together is the key to Odense’s success. “If you don’t succeed at work, you don’t thrive,” says Kenneth. “So we reorganized people into teams of three or more, where everyone is responsible for finishing each day’s tasks. This means that nobody gets to leave early and nobody has to work overtime,” he explains.

EQUAL TERMS AND shared responsibility have had a tremendous effect on productivity and the social climate at work. “A culture

Paw Nielsen

Age: 46.

Position: Postal Worker and Trade Union Representative, Odense, Denmark. Closest colleagues: Fellow Union Representative Steen Andersen and everybody else in the team. At PostNord since: 1995.

Tips from Kenneth, Paw and Anke

1

of ‘every person for themselves’ has been replaced by a sense of fair play and working for a common cause,” says Paw Nielsen.

Using input from workers and behavioral psychologists, Kenneth and his team have taken many steps to make it easier for employees to do their work correctly and harder to make mistakes – whether it be through easier scanning, more efficient transportation, or standard procedures for parcel delivery.

“When things go wrong, I look at myself first,” says Kenneth. “Have I, as a leader, been good enough at planning your work so that you can be as efficient as possible? When we take responsibility for our mistakes, we can use them to establish better practices.”

THE POSITIVE CHANGE in Odense means productivity has gone up, while the number of sick days has decreased. “Others now come to Odense to learn from our experiences. It makes everyone proud,” says Kenneth.

Parcel deliverer Anke Wagner Sørensen can feel the difference at work, too.

“It’s the sum of many things. But the fact that our union and our leaders are working together instead of against each other is the most important aspect. Everyone is now working towards the same goal,” she says. “It sets a good example. And good examples inspire others to do better.”

Make leadership and trade union representatives work together.

2 Don’t expect immediate results. You can’t turn a supertanker around in five minutes – especially if it has run aground. Change takes time – be patient.

3 Be a positive example – walk the talk and practice what you preach.

4 Trust your employees to be responsible and watch them grow.

5 Be polite and say hello to everyone every day.

Kenneth Christensen

Age: 41.

Position: Director of Parcel Operations, Southern Jutland and Funen, Denmark. Closest colleagues: The other three regional directors and Palle Olsen, who runs our parcels business. At PostNord since: I was at PostNord from 2002–2015 and rejoined in 2019.

Anke WagnerSørensen

Age: 47.

Position: Parcel Deliverer, Odense, Denmark.

Closest colleagues: Jørgen Pedersen, Lone Lund and Søren Gerner. At PostNord since: December 1999.

The fact that our union and our leaders are working together instead of against each other is the most important aspect.

BORED of working as a manager at a local clothing store, Ami Dow quit her full-time job to apply for a temporary role at PostNord over Christmas. She was hired almost ten years ago by the parcel terminal in Örebro and was impressed by the opportunities available within the company.

“I think PostNord was what I needed, to move on. I wanted to do something different, and this was perfect for me. There are so many different units, professions and work areas at PostNord, and I saw a chance for personal development and a new career,” she says.

Ami has always liked to have a lot on her plate. Outside of work she runs a Thai boxing gym with her boyfriend, offering classes to young and old. She explains that she likes being physically and mentally exhausted before the day is over.

Her first contract for three months was

n

extended, and she was encouraged by a colleague to apply for a new position as group manager. She didn’t get that job, but was instead offered a similar role, working the night shift.

“No matter what I do, I want to be the best at it. When I was sorting parcels at the terminal, I wanted to exceed expectations. When I started as manager, I had to focus less on my own performance and more on teamwork,” she says.

With her background in retail management, Ami was already used to leading a team.

“I’ve always tried to use a ‘let’s do this together’ approach, instead of an authoritarian style or doing it all by myself. When I’m part of a team, I want my team to succeed.”

AFTER WORKING THE night shift for two years, she heard about a new service being launched at PostNord called Kontrolltornet. Back then they only had one customer, Linas Matkasse, a company delivering step-bystep recipes and prepacked ingredients straight to the door. Ami was looking for a

Ami doesn’t back down from a challenge. Her perfect working day at Kontrolltornet involves making decisions “with a gun to her head”. “It’s when I perform best,” she says.

TEXT: RICKARD LINDHOLM PHOTO: ALBIN HELLSTEN

Ami Dow

Age: 34.

Position: Transport Manager, Örebro, Sweden.

Closest colleagues: Magnus Gustafsson, Alexander Hellman, Conny Andersson and Abed Balhawan.

At PostNord since: 2013.

new challenge and building a new service from the ground up sounded like a perfect fit. She was the third person in, hired by the unit as a transport manager.

“We planned the routes for all Linas Matkasse deliveries. At that time, there were no real systems in place, so my more technical colleagues had to build new software for us to use.”

Kontrolltornet grew to what it is today by successively adding new clients and handling logistics from the warehouse to the end

customer. Every day, Ami and her colleagues work with some of PostNord’s biggest clients, like Amazon, Zalando and H&M.

“We get a lot of praise, and I’m happy that we can meet our clients’ demands. There isn’t a manual for how to do this, because everything depends on the volume on any given day. Some days it feels like I work with a gun to my head from the morning until I leave, but I like that. I perform best when I have ten things to do that should have been done an hour ago,” she smiles.

In her role you have to make quick decisions and act on unforeseen events, which takes knowledge and self-management. Ami delivers and is never boring to work with.

Ami telling Amir Fejzulani one of her best jokes.

Abed

Ami's desk is supervised by this holday gift from a colleague.

How to improve teamwork

1

Be responsive. Listen to your colleagues when they’re sharing their expertise. 2

Ask for help If someone is struggling, a colleague might have the answer. 3

Dare to make mistakes. Being right is best, but the worst thing you can do is nothing.

ACCORDING TO AMI, the key to success is teamwork. Kontrolltornet’s team comprises five transport managers, including Ami herself, and one team manager. They collaborate closely with transport management and those working with cross-border transportation.

“We get an enormous amount of help from our colleagues,” Ami says. “Most of the transportation is based on fixed timetables, and we generally just have to deal with delays and other issues that arise. Situations also arise when our customers launch a campaign and suddenly need more transportation.”

One of Ami’s colleagues who has worked with her right from the start is team manager Natalie Collin.

“What I appreciate most about Ami is her

commitment and courage. She has great energy and is very loyal. She is always ready to go the extra mile when needed. In her role you have to make quick decisions and act on unforeseen events, which takes knowledge and self-management. Ami delivers and is never boring to work with,” says Natalie.

One such incident occurred when a major fire broke out in Hässleholm, in the south of Sweden. All northbound train traffic from Malmö stopped running, and Ami was asked to join the transport management team to help resolve the situation. They managed it by switching all train transportation to trucks instead.

“Working on a major issue like that is like eating an elephant. You just have to do it one bite at a time,” Ami laughs.

Trading

Robert really missed the nitty-gritty of machine work in his role as a technology and maintenance manager. One job swap later, he now travels around Sweden helping terminals get the most out of their technology.

Robert Öhlin

Age: 51.

Position: Machine Administrator, PostNord Group, Sweden.

Closest colleagues: Mikael Magnusson, Kenth Hansson, Håkan Petersson and Magnus Lundin.

At PostNord since: 2020.

TEXT: RICKARD LINDHOLM PHOTO: ALBIN HELLSTEN

places

ACOUPLE OF months ago, Robert Öhlin would have started his day at the parcel terminal in Örebro, or the letter terminal in Hallsberg, planning the day and managing personnel. Today, his working day often starts on the road – on his way to a machine inspection or to meet a supplier to discuss new investments or repairs. Robert is on loan from Region Mitt, where he works as a technology and maintenance manager, to Machines & Maintenance at Group level.

“I heard that a position I was interested in was vacant and talked to my manager. Even though she had to make several staffing changes to make it work, she thought it was a great idea for me to try this new position.”

MORE THAN A promotion, the job swap is a chance for him to work more with technology and machines and less with planning and personnel.

“I really liked my work and all my colleagues, but I missed learning more about how different machines work and how to run them in the optimal way. I have a background as a service technician and I enjoy visiting new workplaces, trying to find the best solution for them.”

MACHINES & MAINTENANCE are responsible for contact with suppliers when ordering new machines or deciding if an old machine is to be repaired or replaced. More minor tasks include working with a terminal to come up with a recommendation for how to run a certain machine.

“It’s also our job to keep an ear to the ground, enabling us to learn and to implement new solutions for the future. I have huge respect for my older colleagues, who know the industry like the back of their hand.”

ROBERT’S NEW POSITION also provides an outlet for his social side.

“I’m an extroverted person, and I cherish the small talk with other technicians. For me, it’s very important to take all problems seriously and really earn the trust of my colleagues,” he says.

Robert’s tips for trying something new

1 Know what opportunities are available

PostNord has a lot of different functions and possibilities for development.

2 Dare to raise your hand

Everyone was encouraging and solution-driven when I made my ambitions clear.

We want to know more about you, your colleagues and your workplace! E-mail us at peopleby@postnord.com

3 Learn from experience

When new in a position, you can learn a lot by asking your more experienced colleagues.

I have huge respect for my older colleagues, who know the industry like the back of their hand.

LENDING A HELPING HAND

As the Nordic region’s biggest logistics partner, what we do affects many others. PostNord has an important role to play in the communities where we operate, and we strive to contribute to the world around us.

That’s why we jump through hoops, raise the bog standard, collect firefighting gear and play a vital part role in an annual telethon.

The return of the bog

Hals Mose, Denmark

The Hals Mose project improves biodiversity as a habitat for rare birds such as night owls, goshawks and great spotted woodpeckers.

CARBON offsetting is hardly a new phenomenon at PostNord. For years, business customers have been able to carbon-offset parcels in the Nordic region for a small extra charge. The money went to projects that capture CO2 at a level equivalent to the emissions generated by parcels. That way, emissions were neutralized.

“Previously, we supported carbon capture projects abroad, because there weren’t any such projects in Denmark,” says Mie Munck Bielefeldt, Project Manager at Parcels & Sustainability. “But we saw an increasing demand for something more local and transparent. So we partnered with the Danish Nature Fund to establish the first actual carbon offsetting project in Denmark – the reestablishment of Hals Mose in Northern Jutland,” Mie says.

Hals Mose was originally a raised bog that was drained and used as farmland. Thanks to the project, it is now being returned to its natural state by a process that allows water to flow onto the land again. The natural area covers more than 250 hectares and spares the climate from at least 1,700 tonnes of CO2 each year. “The water in the bog captures CO2 that would otherwise go into the atmosphere,” explains Mie.

AND THAT’S NOT all. The Hals Mose project performs three tasks at once. “It captures CO2, improves biodiversity as a habitat for rare birds such as night owls, goshawks and great spotted woodpeckers, and creates a new recreational area for the local community,” Mie says. “Its all-round quality sets the standard for what we’ll be looking for in future projects.”

The fact that the offset funds are earmarked for a specific project has made it much more relatable for customers and sales teams. “It’s a very transparent project and easy to understand – you can literally go and see it for yourself,” Mie says.

THE PROJECT WILL run from 2021 to 2024, and the bog is already doing its job, capturing CO2. But it was a lengthy start-up process. “Our CEO Peter Kjær would ask, ‘So is the water back in the bog yet?’” says Mie. “It is now – and so are the birds. All that remains is to set up the recreational facilities for visitors.”

Given that PostNord was the first Danish business to carry out a local climate project, no stone was left unturned in the process.

“We did a lot of research to make sure this was a quality project,” says Mie. “Our experiences are now being used to help draft an official standard for Danish climate projects – a standard that will make it easier to identify high-quality local projects in the future.”

Since PostNord teamed up with the Danish Nature Fund, carbon offsetting has gone from complicated to comprehensible.

TEXT: LISE HANNIBAL PHOTO: JOHAN

BÄVMAN, SHUTTERSTOCK

Mie Munck

Bielefeldt

Age: 45.

Position: Project Manager, Parcels & Sustainability, Copenhagen, Denmark.

Closest colleagues: My team; my boss Malene Bjerregaard, Sustainability Specialist Giorgia Vezzani and Head of Marketing, Mette Ringsted.

At PostNord since: June 2020.

Most important shipment of the year

delivered to more than 500 committees and over 100,000 fundraisers, who knocked on doors all over Norway.

“We receive so much positive feedback for our efforts. Several of the recipients call and send emails to thank us and tell us about the nice drivers and fast and excellent service,” she says.

Being the logistics partner for the telethon helps cement PostNord’s good reputation while having a unifying effect within the organization.

TEXT: SISSEL FANTOFT PHOTO: PACOM BAGULA, POSTNORD NORGE

“It’s not very often that transport workers solely receive praise and gratitude. PostNord’s role as a logistics partner actually means that all employees contribute to the telethon,” Ellen points out.

THE Norwegian Broadcasting Corporation’s Telethon, a nationwide campaign and event that raises funds for charity, has taken place annually since 1974. This year it raised more than NOK 266 million for Doctors Without Borders. The funds will provide medical treatment to those who need it, mainly in Bangladesh, the Central African Republic, the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Sierra

Leone. For the ninth year running, PostNord ensured that all materials for the fundraising day on Sunday, October 23 reached all of Norway’s municipalities.

“Our collaboration with the telethon is incredibly rewarding. This year, around 1,000 parcels were sent out from our main warehouse to the whole country,” explains Ellen.

THE PARCELS contained all the marketing materials for the campaign and were

She refers to the distribution of the campaign material as the most important shipment of the year.

Ellen Kasin, Key Account Operations Manager, Alfaset, Norway

“I’ve been involved in organizing this for several years and feel privileged to work for a company like PostNord that steps up to help those who need it most. I’ve previously had the opportunity to visit a refugee camp in Jordan to see how the money is used, and that’s something I’ll never forget,” Ellen says.

Every autumn Norwegians join forces to support Norway’s biggest televised charity campaign and create a better world.

PostNord is the proud logistics partner of the NRK Telethon. “Why not contribute by doing what we do best,” as KAM Ellen Kasin puts it.

The telethon of 2022 years raised 206 million NOK for Doctors without Borders.

Maria Korban, Head of Communication PostNord Norway, with Vibecke Østby, leader of the NRK Telethon.

Adriana is paying it f rward

DRIANA herself came to Norway at 12 years old, as a refugee from the war in Kosovo.

A“I’ll never forget the horror. That’s why the war in Ukraine affects me so strongly – I never thought my generation would experience war up close again,” she says.

Adriana is an operations manager at PostNord in Drammen. Her sister-in-law is Ukrainian, and when the war broke out, she and her son were staying in their home country.

“My husband and a friend arranged for them to be picked up in the village and driven to the Polish border, where my brother was waiting,” she explains.

After her family members were safely back in Norway, Adriana began to think about ways she could show her gratitude. She knew about Brannsport, an arena sport for firefighters. Brannsport Norway was planning to send fire engines and other equipment to Ukraine, and Adriana asked her managers at PostNord if they would help.

“They immediately said yes. We collected several pallets and firefighting equipment from various fire stations at no cost, and then transported everything to Drammen,” Adriana says. On March 11, four fire engines and a semi-trailer fully loaded with equipment left Drammen. The convoy was driven by volunteer Norwegian firefighters. Four days later, they arrived in the small town of Rava-Ruska in western Ukraine.

“To me, this shows that PostNord is a company that really cares about its employees. I asked for help in a private capacity and was met with incredible generosity. It’s a wonderful feeling and makes me want to make that little extra effort,” she says.

There is a huge need for firefighting equipment in Ukraine. Violent Russian attacks have led to massive fires in residential areas and nuclear reactor sites. In addition to fire engines, the shipment from Norway contained everything from helmets and dust masks to first aid kits and firefighting gear.

Adriana Borg

Age: 33.

Position: Operations Manager, Drammen, Norway. Closest colleagues: Roar Steen and Helge Hoverud. At PostNord since: 2018.

After Adriana Borg’s young nephew was rescued from the war in Ukraine, she wanted to give something back and help the war-torn country. With PostNord on board, pallet upon pallet of firefighting equipment was sent to Ukraine.

TEXT: SISSEL FANTOFT PHOTO: LEIKNY HAVIK SKJÆRSETH

Katja Luotola

Age: 42.

Position: Head of People and Communications, Helsinki, Finland. Closest colleagues: Sari Eronen, Eeva Jousi, Jenni Saarela, Nadja Halkola, Sanna Järvinen-Muhonen and Mira Angelvirta.

At PostNord since: 2017.

H ps and help

The partnership between PostNord and the Wolfpack has been a good deal for both parties – not only has it been extended but also expanded.

The cooperation with the Basketball Association, which started in 2016, now deepens even more, when PostNord becomes one of the partners of the 3x3 basket WC tour to be played this summer.

WHEN PostNord came onboard as a sponsor of the Finnish men’s national team in basketball in 2016, it had only been three years since the brand entered the country.

Partnering with the popular “Wolfpack”, as the team is nicknamed, was a great way to increase awareness of a new player in the logistics market.

“PostNord and the Wolfpack was a good match; we were both challengers, even underdogs in the market, but we were ready to work hard for success, while respecting the opponents,” says Katja Luotola, Head of People and Communications.

And that’s how PostNord’s earlier slogan “We deliver” ended up on the court and boards during the EuroBasket 2017 preliminary round games in Helsinki.

THE STRATEGY WORKED. The partnership has since been extended – the current contract runs through 2025 and another EuroBasket tournament with games in Finland – so that it currently also covers the women’s national team.

“After the 2017 tournament, we wanted to deepen the partnership to include more than just advertising on the team kit and the court,” Katja says.

“It came natural for us to support the Lady Wolves too as an important step for equality, even though the women’s team hadn’t had similar success. We weren’t the main sponsor at first, but now our logo is even in the front of the women’s jerseys.”

In 2019, PostNord decided to use basketball to make a difference in the society. Together with the Finnish Basketball Association, and the Finnish Basketball Foundation, PostNord started the We Deliver Fund that gives grants and financial aid for basketball related costs to young players from less privileged families.

“Many families struggle to make sure their

children can keep on playing a game they love, and we all know how important it is for children to stay active. Basketball is also important for social contacts,” Katja explains.

“Children grow up fast and sometimes the decision whether a kid can keep on playing or not can come down to a pair of new sneakers. Or maybe the family can’t afford a trip to a tournament,” she adds.

Since its start in 2019, the We Deliver Fund has handed out aid eleven times, totaling more than 200,000 euro.

THERE HAVE BEEN ups and downs during the six years that PostNord has worked with the Finnish Basketball Association. The men’s team made history by finishing seventh in the 2022 EuroBasket, their best finish in 55 years. They then qualified for the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup for the second time – once as a host team – and as the first European country to qualify.

But there’s also been a pandemic that kept children from the indoor arenas for a long time and hit some families hard, increasing the number of We Deliver applications.

“We always wanted it to grow to include other actors, and it feels good to see that it’s not only our fund, and that something we started has now grown to something bigger,” Katja says.

“I’m proud of that.”

We Deliver Fund

A joint venture between Basketball Finland, PostNord Oy, and the Finnish Basketball Foundation.

A network of sponsors provides scholarships and financial support to cover basketball related expenses.

So far, the fund has given 726 stipends.

For six years, PostNord has been a proud sponsor of one of the most popular sports teams in Finland: the men’s basketball national team. Today, the partnership with the federation also covers the women’s team, and a special fund to help less privileged kids and young adults.

TEXT: RISTO PAKARINEN PHOTO: RONI REKOMAA

Hannah Myrhed

Age: 36.

Position: Coordinator, Group Brand & Communication, Stockholm, Sweden.

Closest colleagues: Evy Römert, Helen Ridger, Björn Bergman, Niklas Noreby and Karolina Dubowicz. At PostNord since: 2005.

The look (and sound!) of PostNord

WHAT?

“Think of Brand Terminal as a tool, making it easier to do the right thing design-wise. In it you’ll find icons, images, fonts and colors, and much more besides, that you’ll need when communicating and marketing PostNord. The purpose of Brand Terminal is to make the PostNord brand more recognizable, regardless of which market you do business in. We may be in different countries, but we’re the same brand and should look, feel and sound the same everywhere.”

WHY?

“It’s unnecessary to keep reinventing the wheel. Earlier, many of us kept downloading stuff to our hard drives, resulting in wrong or outdated versions. When using Brand Terminal, you can be sure you’re getting the latest version. It’s where you should go. If you haven’t looked at it yet, visit the Terminal and take a tour.”

In Brand Terminal there are:

285 symbolic illustrations

300 icons

26 colors

2,000 photos

WHO?

“Anyone, really! We want as many PostNorders as possible to use Brand Terminal when creating content. One of the most important reasons is that it’s really simple to work with and achieve the right look. We have guidelines for photos, icons and illustrations, for example, and also a media bank. So, if you’re wondering what we mean by ‘cinematic approach’, it’s all explained in the guide.”

WHEN?

“We started to work on shaping the embryo of Brand Terminal in spring 2020. When we launched our new brand identity in the fall of the same year, we also pressed the button and launched Brand Terminal. We felt it was important that everyone had the same guidelines and the same point of view regarding our brand. Our work didn’t end after the launch, of course. But the groundwork is there, and we keep adding new things and refining all the time. Take a look at, or rather listen to, our latest addition: our audio identity.”

“The PostNord brand is one of our main assets when communicating with different target groups. It’s easy enough to say what we do at PostNord, but how we look and sound is a tougher question to answer,” says Project Manager Hannah Myrhed. Luckily, the answer is close at hand – PostNord Brand Terminal.

Tyresö ‘Santa’ goes above and beyond

Just like the real Santa he has a long white beard, loves to make people happy and has delivered parcels for decades.

PostNord driver Kristoffer Möller has become a much-loved local celebrity in the Tyresö district outside Stockholm.

TEXT: SOFIA ZETTERMAN

PHOTO: OSKAR OMNE

Kristoffer Möller

Age: 60.

Position: Delivery Driver, Stockholm, Sweden.

Closest colleagues: Peter Solem, Therese Kjellson, Jonas Schultz and Göran Berg.

At PostNord since: 1979 – 42 years! We’re

”He is simply fantastic.”

Hanna Klaar, PostNord

”Hero!”

Patrik Berglund, PostNord

”Truly one of the best I have met during my years at PostNord! So well deserved to pay tribute to Tyresö's own parcel Santa.”

Malin Grundström, PostNord

Customer Care by Santa

1 Truly listen to the customers. Be responsive, humble, and friendly If you just listen with an open mind, most irritated customers will come around.

2 See every customer. And their kids, their pets, and their grandma. Always say hello and try to learn their names, it makes the job so much more fun!

3 Treat each parcel with care and respect. Don’t throw parcels on the ground, put them down neatly and make sure they don’t get wet in the rain.

4 Double check the address. Always double check the address. It’s your job to get it right, every time.

TYRESÖ, Bandhagen, Högdalen, Rågsved, Hagsätra, Älvsjö, Solberga, Saltsjö-Boo, Södermalm, Kungsholmen – after 42 years of delivering parcels, Kristoffer Möller is familiar with most of the Swedish capital. He has delivered just about anything from cockroaches to flu vaccines and has even rescued many forgotten door keys on his rounds.

“If they have left the key in the door, I always track down and call the customer. Once I saved a big golf bag!”

No matter what Kristoffer does, he does it with a smile and the greatest care and consideration of the customers – and the parcels.

“You have to think like it’s your own parcel and treat it accordingly,” he says.

His excellent service, which goes above and beyond his job description, has given him hundreds of fan greetings on Facebook and a big tribute article in the local paper. The fact that he had to sign autographs in a local school and received champagne and flowers from a customer when he changed district, says it all. But the tribute that meant the most to him, was when a tough, rowdy teenager once said, “You must never stop delivering here, Beardy.”

HIS SECRET? Greeting everybody with a friendly smile.

“Truly seeing people is key. I also try to learn their names, their kids’ and pets' names, what they do, and where they work. I have a lot of dogs and cats I’m friends with,” he says laughing loudly, much resembling Santa in a classic Disney movie. And yes, he wears a red Santa hat during Christmas, which is greatly appreciated by the customers’ kids.

Making time to chit-chat and learning people’s names is part of his service. This Santa calls it “customer care” – and it leads to more sales.

Kristoffer is not only loved by his customers, but also by his colleagues who he lunches with every single day. And after 42 years of delivering post, he still loves the challenge of packing the car – “It’s like Tetris” – planning his route and the freedom of cruising around in his van listening to rock music. And of course, the sport of always going that extra mile for the customers!

Ros-Marie sticks to the

KEEPING the speed limit is the key to safe driving, if you ask Ros-Marie Olsson, a driver at Norrmalm’s transporter. Her rounds are always “green” – meaning she never speeds. As many as 8 out of 10 PostNord drivers keep the speed limit, which is better than the industry average 7 out of 10.

According to Ros-Marie, a great driver needs to be calm, stress resilient, patient, flexible – and fast! On an average day she stops at 40-50 customers. But ‘fast’ is not necessarily a contradiction to keeping the speed limit.

”But sure, sometimes you have to run really fast,” she says with laugh. She loves that the job keeps her in shape.

Ros-Marie knows that rushing in traffic is not an option. Especially not when driving to and from contract customers in the inner city – with lots of different speed limits, road works causing traffic jams and heavy rush hour traffic.

“You don’t win much by speeding; you have to stop at the next red light anyway,” she says. Better safe than sorry, because as a driver she not only has to look out for other cars, but also for cyclists, electric scooters, and pedestrians.

“It’s important to be observant, focused, and stay updated about the traffic situation by listening to the radio. Often there’s a stop in traffic and then you have to rethink your route and make quick decisions about where to park.”

Just like a competitive rally driver RosMarie plans her route before take-off. But using a GPS is not necessary.

“I’m old in the game, so I’ve got the best GPS in my head,” she says laughing.

Age: 55.

Position: Delivery Driver, Stockholm, Sweden.

Closest colleagues: Stelios Alhazidis, Faouzi Garbaya and Jörgen Lundgren. At PostNord since: 1994.

Ros-Mariee’s tips for a safe drive

1 Plan your driving. You’re better off if you look at your route and your stops before you start the car, than if you take off not knowing where to go.

2 Know your customers. Just knowing the address is not enough. You have keys and access cards and need to know which elevator to use and which floor to go to.

3 Check the speed – often! That goes for both your own speed and the speed signs. Sometimes it’s hard to remember if it’s 30, 40, 50 or 60 where you are.

Safety first. That’s the objective for all PostNord drivers. After 28 years behind the wheel, Ros-Marie Olsson knows Stockholm city by heart, as well as how to safely navigate it on her way to 50 customers per day – without ever speeding!

TEXT: SOFIA ZETTERMAN PHOTO: PETER KNUTSON

Ros-Marie Olsson

FEATURED IN THIS ISSUE:

Eeva Jousi 6

Tronn Flittie 9 Lina

Claréus 10 Joakim Friberg 10

Per Adolfsson 10 Axel Scheutz

Godin 12 Donny Ringius 12 Mikael

Kivikunnas 18 Felix Norman 20

Anders Rickardsson 21 Ibrahim

Shahein 22 Sedat Yayla 26 Edgars

Dambitis 28 Lena Valen 34 Lone

Nummedal 34 Rosa Larsson 36

Veikka Liski 36 Sahar Hassani 38

Johan Nyman 38 Paw Nielsen 42

Kenneth Christensen 42 Anke

Wagner-Sørensen 42 Ami Dow 44

Robert Öhlin 48 Mie Munck

Bielefeldt 52 Ellen Kasin 54 Adriana

Borg 55 Katja Luotola 56 Hannah

Myrhed 58 Kristoffer Möller 60

Ros-Mari Olsson 62

Not only is he an officer and a gentleman, in which sport is Edgars a champion?

1. Figure skating

X. Hurdles

2. Shot put

Since working full time isn’t enough for Ami, what side business do she and her boyfriend engage in?

1. They bake wedding cakes

X. They brew artisan beer

2. They run a gym

PostNord is a proud sponsor of the Finnish national basketball team. The team is called...

1. The Brat pack

X. The Wolfpack

2. The Starter pack

Which fairy tale by H C Andersen can the PostNord team in Odense be compared to?

1. The Little Mermaid

X. Thumbelina

2. The Ugly Duckling

When making music, Eeva Jousi uses the stage name Eva Arco. Why?

1. In honour of her Spanish dad

X. She only sings in Spanish

2. Jousi means Arco in Spanish

By recycling and selling pallets instead of wasting them, we have managed to save

1. 25 trees

X. 256 trees

2. 2,562 trees

Which kind of woodpecker has benefitted from re-establishing Hals Mose?

1. Great spotted woodpecker

X. Orange backed woodpecker

Ivory billed woodpecker

Tronn is not only a Project Manager, he is a soccer dad too. Which team does he coach?

Dombås IL

X. Gjerdrum IL

IL

Did you get it right? See the correct answers on instagram @peoplebypostnord

2.

1.

2. Lesja

Get all these answers, and a whole lot more in this edition. Read on!