Anders Pettersson

Meet Anders, born in Brazil he came to Sweden to study at SSE and returned to his home country, residing in São Paulo since 1991. Anders' career started as a Regional Controller, then CEO for different companies including foreign subsidiaries and family controlled companies and he is now acting on a few boards, has a consulting company in Corporate Governance, is a small business owner, and President of the Brazilian Ski Federation

What made you move your career abroad? Did SSE play a role in this decision? If so, how?

I had decided early that as long as the right opportunity came up, to return "home" since I was born in Brazil and lived here my first 17 years before moving to Sweden and starting at SSE.

What were your expectations and did they turn out that way?

To be honest, my expectations were quite high, I aimed in becoming a General Manager for a company! I must say that I was lucky to be the right person at the right place at the right time and achieved my goal at age of 32. I am grateful to my boss and my colleagues at the time; without a strong team, you cannot do much. My hiring philosophy has been always have better talents around you.

What are the challenges of living and working abroad (in your specific country)?

In Brazil there is a saying that you have to kill a lion every day. The country is very challenging but at the same time an excellent school for future leaders. Challenges include an ever-changing environment and difficulty in finding the right employees and building a competent organization. Remember that Brazil's population is 210 million and the area is the size of Europe. Regional differences are strong and there is a lot of room for development.

What are the professional benefits of knowing (at least) two different cultures? Any examples of when this has come in handy?

Both cultures have their pluses and minuses; someone who thinks that the Swedish or European culture is more "advanced or better" than the Brazilian or South American culture is only fooling themselves. I believe that being able to combine the positives of both cultures has helped me in my career.

What do you bring from your Swedish culture to your workplace that has proven beneficial?

Work ethic and discipline has proven beneficial. Also the respect for all employees and the willingness to share knowledge around the team.

What are the biggest professional drawbacks of working in a different country?

In my mind, no doubt the positives outweigh the drawbacks which could be losing contacts with Sweden and difficulty in returning home.

Do you have any advice to students or alumni who want to make an international career? What should you think about? How do you prepare for it?

You have to be open-minded and be prepared to "bjuda på dig själv" and give everything you have. Obviously learning the language is a big plus and visiting the country before is recommended. Respect the local habits, listen more than you speak and do not have pre-established concepts. Each country is unique and certainly with positive characteristics. Use the opportunity to learn for life.