SWIFT People
Portrait of the month
NAME: Anders Carlsson
ROLE: CIO, Chief Information Officer
AGE: 46
LIVE: Stockholm, Sweden
What did you want to become when you were little?
As a child, I dreamed of becoming a sports star. Whether it was football, tennis, table tennis, floorball, or badminton, if it just involved something that bounced, I was drawn to it like a magnet. ⚽️🎾🏸🏓
And you ended up as CIO of SWIFT, can you tell us a bit about that journey?
My career journey has been diverse, spanning roles as an employee and consultant, where I’ve served as an IT Manager, Logistics Manager, and Business Consultant. As a Business Consultant, I gained insights into various industries, learning that there’s more than one way to solve a problem. For the past 15 years, I’ve primarily held the position of CIO in senior management, where understanding the digital landscape’s potential has been key. 👨🏻💻
With three words, how would a (close) colleague describe you?
I might not be the best person to judge, but I hope my colleagues would describe me as a team player, curious, and passionate about bringing tasks to completion. ✔️
What do you love most about what you do at SWIFT?
What I love most about working at SWIFT is the diverse range of tasks and being part of a startup comprised of excellent colleagues. We have fun at work and tackle challenges together. 😅
West coast or East coast?
West coast. Despite enjoying life in Stockholm on the East Coast, my roots on the West Coast always pull me back. ⬅️
Your happy place?
Walking in the beach forests of the Swedish West Coast in spring, just as they turn green, is like balm for my soul. That’s where I recharge. 🌊🌳
Apartment or house?
House. I love our house with a garden, but sometimes I miss the convenience of an apartment, especially being close to the city’s lively vibe. 🏡
What’s the most unusual or unconventional use of a home lift you’ve come across since joining SWIFT?
Recently, I heard of a pinball machine enthusiast who installed a lift in their villa to transport their pinball machines between floors. 🎰
Thumbs up, down, or somewhere in between for AI?
Definitely thumbs up. AI holds incredible opportunities, and for SWIFT, it has led to many positive developments. However, as with any new technology, there’s always a risk of misuse, which can lead to challenges. 👍🏽
Football or floorball?
If it’s about playing, then floorball. But these days, coaching my son’s football team brings me great joy and satisfaction. ⚽️🏒
Life as a football coach and life as CIO at SWIFT – what are the similarities and differences?
In both roles, the importance of teamwork is central. Success doesn’t come from having the best players but from a team that knows how to work together effectively, making the most of each member’s strengths. 🖐🏽
Looking at what you’ve achieved so far, what are you most proud of?
To have been part of founding SWIFT. Building a company from scratch that now leads the home lift industry is something I’m very proud of. 🔨
Swedish Semla or Waffle?
Swedish semla is unbeatable in February, but for the rest of the year, waffles, especially in a ski lodge, might just take the lead. 🧇
What’s your most precious thing in your life?
Time – try to value every moment, whether at work or at leisure. But it’s easy to forget. ⌛️
What do you think is the most important in your work at SWIFT?
Maintaining a holistic view of SWIFT’s operations and identifying opportunities for digital disruption are vital for our continued success. 🔮
How does a normal workday look like?
My workday starts with a cup of coffee. In the morning, I collaborate with our colleagues in Asia and partners. The afternoon is dedicated to working with our SWIFT European team and suppliers on various projects. 🌏🌍
One thing you cannot live without at work?
I don’t really function without coffee. ☕️
What do you like the most about the SWIFT home lift?
I appreciate the SWIFT home lift’s environmental friendliness, especially its smart charging feature on the way down. 🔋
Tips from the coach to someone dreaming of working with what you do?
Remember, in IT, teamwork and human connections are key. Success comes from blending technology with business goals and building strong teams. 🎨
What’s on your bucket list?
Walk on the Great Wall of China. 🧱
Future dreams?
To own a seaside holiday home. 🏚🌊
Your favorite means of movement (besides SWIFT)?
Electric and battery-powered transport vehicles. My visit to Shanghai last fall opened my eyes to the advanced state of battery-powered transport there, inspiring hope for achieving our climate goals. (This, of course, applies to SWIFT’s home lifts as well.) 😊