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Jarl Freiesleben

Executive summary

Jarl has dedicated his extensive career to leadership. 

With over 20 years of experience as a director in various roles, most recently as the CEO of Halberg A/S's tobacco division. He has overseen operations with approximately DKK 750 million in revenue, 200 employees, and multiple international subsidiaries.

Prior to this, Jarl served as a senior consultant specializing in Factory Management and Supply Chain. His FMCG experience spans seven years in the snacks and chips industry, where he focused on technology and distribution to the grocery retail sector and boarder trade.

In recent years, Jarl has gained considerable board experience, both nationally and internationally, particularly within industrial companies. To ensure his knowledge of board governance remains current, Jarl completed CBS’ certified board leadership program in 2022 and has since been an active member of the Board Leadership Society (Bestyrelsesforeningen) and other relevant networks.

Jarl's key roles throughout his career as COO, CEO, board member, and chairman have included Leadership, Strategy, M&A, B2B Customers, Contract Manufacturing, Operations, Digitalization, and Efficiency, all within an international context.

As a Partner and Board Advisor at People, Jarl primarily conducts board evaluations for large Danish companies. In parallel, he undertakes several board assignments in the SME segment.

When not at work, Jarl enjoys spending time with his family and pursuing hobbies such as home & gardening, music, photography, and driving his motorbike. He also has 32 years of experience as a glider pilot, both as an instructor and competitive pilot.

Professional Experience
Education
  • Technology: Graduated from Lego Engineering, specializing in building complex assembly and decoration systems.
  • FMCG: Project Manager and Planning Manager at Kims A/S, responsible for production technology and supply chain, including planning and distribution to Danish retail and cross-border trade.
  • Consulting: Focused on management consulting in the manufacturing industry at Consultor A/S and Rambøll Management.
  • Industrial Manufacturing: Extensive experience in the international tobacco industry, including roles as CEO at Mac Baren Tobacco Company A/S and Ministry of Snus.
  • Board Positions: Experience in Danish and international companies, including Danish Industry. Chairman of a property company specializing in industrial properties.
  • Leadership & Strategy, Technology & Digitalization, Financial Governance & Control, M&A, Megatrends
  • Bachelor of Engineering in Manufacturing and Management from the University of Southern Denmark
  • Mannaz, Executive Management Program for Top Executives 2013-2014
  • CBS Certified Executive Board Leadership program in 2022
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Jarl Freiesleben
Partner & chairman
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