Insights – Per Jonsson
Per Jonsson has more than 20 years of executive management experience and a stellar track record in transforming and growing businesses.
He has been CEO of two publicly traded companies in the UK as well as holding the top post at enterprise platform software business, Cordys.
In the last six months, Per has taken on his first non-executive roles – as NED at Intelligent Mobile Ltd and NEC at Massive Analytic Ltd. He is also currently working with Better Capital LLP in a COO role.
We talk to Per about the challenges and rewards of his new non-executive appointments.
You took on your first NED role in July after almost 6 years of holding CEO positions – what made you take a Non-Executive post?
I saw it as a way for me to multiply myself. By becoming an NED, I can contribute to several companies, rather than applying my experience to one business at a time.
What attracted you to the Non-Executive positions you have taken on?
First and foremost, that I had the domain knowledge. I believe that, if an NED is to be effective, they must have had experience of the field the company is operating in. I think that Boards/CEOs need to look beyond general legal or accounting qualifications when it comes to appointing NEDs and find the people with sector knowledge who can add real value to the business.
What have been the key challenges so far?
I have always been a “hands-on” CEO, so the hardest part has been trying not to take over and run the company. Luckily, the businesses I’m working with seem to appreciate the input but, ultimately, an NED is a coach, not an executive!
What have you found most rewarding?
I am loving being involved in both businesses.
Intelligent Mobile is an established, profitable company with good brand recognition that needs to hire both programmers and sales people to go on a dash for growth. Being part of that is great fun.
Massive Analytic is an enterprise software startup with a fascinating product concept and roadmap. It will be big.
You have encountered a range of sectors during your career, what do you feel most passionate about?
I am attracted to high gross margin businesses and there is nothing higher than software. So, I guess I have found the sector equivalent of Mount Everest!
What ambitions/plans for the future do you have yet to fulfill?
I do want to take on a new CEO job in order to keep me fully occupied and happy…and, of course, to pay the bills (four children at school/university cost a lot)!
Finally, any advice for other executives thinking about making the transition?
I think, for most CEOs, it makes sense to become an NED. It is a great way to use the experience you have gained and contribute to more than one business at a time. So, it is definitely worthwhile…just remember that you are not an executive!