So long Sheriff

You have been a part of KTH since 1990 and Head of Administration at the SCI School since 2009. How was that journey?

33 years at KTH is a long time, actually more than half my life. I've had the opportunity to work in various positions and have been privileged to work with inspiring Heads of SCI School and a fantastic team, characterised by excellence, dedication and passion for research and education! Our administrative staff are exceptional problem solvers and passionate about supporting and contributing to the faculty. It's full steam ahead at SCI Admin!

What do you remember as particularly challenging or fun?

My first real challenge, a little over 20 years ago, was becoming head of a programme office of about 12 people. I had been an informal leader for some time, and taking formal responsibility was a huge step. I remember that before the first enrolment of programme students, I planned for all possible scenarios, even having friends step in if the entire staff became ill.

Even the pandemic was a tough period that we managed remotely. When we returned to the office, the focus was on rebuilding a good working environment, intending to make working in the office as attractive as working remotely, and I think we succeeded.

One of many happy memories was the last SCI administrative conference before the pandemic broke out. We had the pleasure of visiting our colleagues at Mälardalens University for an interesting and insightful exchange. In the evening we had a group activity with a Viking theme. We had to dress up as Vikings (mostly women) and were challenged to various "Viking competitions" and then went down to a basement vault to have a Viking dinner. The starter was pea soup on a wooden plate with a wooden spoon... you can imagine the rest. I dare say that everyone who attended the conference will remember that evening with great delight!

Anything you are particularly proud of?

I am incredibly proud of the administrative staff at SCI, especially the team leaders and functional managers. Their commitment and skills are crucial to the effectiveness of our workplace. They are energetic, funny, solve all problems, are never sick, and (mostly) do what they are told. They also up to all the various craziness that I come up with... like singing "Christmas Carols" during the visit of KTH's president, even though none of us can sing.

I am also proud of the SCI school's "tenta team", a fantastic group of people who always solve any problem and are there for you, 24 hours a day if necessary!

You are described as a leader who is open and straightforward in her expectations. Problems need to be solved, while there is a lot of laughter in the school office. How has your leadership style affected the working culture?

My leadership style suits those who have a great sense of humour, can communicate quickly and directly, and are prepared to improvise a little. I hope and believe that I have created a secure environment, commitment and a workplace where people are happy. Efficiency comes from proper routines and daring to think outside the box. It's always better to have forgiveness than permission, that's my motto. As a good administrator, you have to be aware of the rules and their potential flexibility.

You are known for your cowboy boots and are called Sheriff. How has your personal style been reflected in your professional role?

Hahaha... well, they say I shoot from the hip. My style has hopefully positively influenced my team by creating a supportive environment. I have always had the staff's back, even when they make mistakes, which we all do sometimes.

You are taking on a role in the University Administration, which is undergoing significant transformation. What do you want to achieve in your new position?

My ambition for my final years at KTH is to contribute valuable work that leads to concrete improvements and cost savings in administration. My strongest commitment is in the field of education, and I see myself as a pragmatic and hands-on person who effectively initiates and carries out projects.

A recent example of this is the Exam Pilot project. After its completion in December, I will conduct a comprehensive report that will reflect on the project but also suggest development opportunities, particularly in the area of examinations. This has now become even more important in light of the increased number of students coming from Kista and Södertälje. We need to plan and restructure to be able to welcome more students to our main campus, both for teaching and for examinations. I look forward to being fully involved in both the planning process and the operational work that will be required to meet these new challenges. 

What advice would you give to the person taking over your role?

Due to the reorganisation, the role of the Head of Administration will change. My advice is to be very responsive to the faculty, aware of regulations, relieve pressure, solve problems and provide unpretentious support!

What will you miss most at SCI?

SCI-ALG, my administrative management team. We have regular meetings during working hours and irregular ones in the evenings, down in the basement. Hysterical and fun!

Of course, I will miss our Head of School, Sandra Di Rocco, whom I have met almost every day for the last 4 years. We have laughed, discussed, disagreed, compromised and pursued various issues. Intense and Italian, I will miss that!

Reported by: Marta Marko-Tisch