SWIFT People
Portrait of the month
NAME: Thomas Janelid
ROLE: Chief Product Officer, CPO
AGE: 47
LIVE: Stockholm, Sweden
![Thomas article](https://swiftlifts.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Thomas-article-663x800.jpg)
What did you want to become when you were little?
I wanted to be an army officer or attorney. But somehow, I ended up as the CPO of SWIFT home lifts…
How did that happen, can you tell us a bit about that journey?
Well, it all started with my Master of Science degree in mechanical engineering from KTH. From there, I worked on consolidating production factories and then moved to Gothenburg working as a consultant and then found myself in the purchasing world at Volvo. But it was a stroke of luck that led me to Aritco when Tommy (former CEO at Aritco, nowadays CEO of SWIFT) offered me the job as the purchasing manager and look, here I am CPO at SWIFT, where I feel right at home.
What do you love most about what you do at SWIFT?
It’s simple – being part of this fabulous and fun team. We know how to work hard and have a good time doing it.
West coast or East coast?
I would say the east coast because thats where I grew up. But after living in Gothenburg for five years the west coast also has a special place in my heart. It’s a tough choice, they both have their positive sides!
On land or in water?
Despite my sailing background, I prefer to keep my feet on solid ground.
Sailing or motorboat?
Now, that’s a tough one. Whichever one has the most space, that’s my pick!
What do you think is the most important in your work at SWIFT?
It’s all about helping the team focus on the bigger picture , not just the margins. We’re here to make a difference.
Tea or Coffee?
Definitely coffee. It’s the fuel that keeps me going.
Your 3 daily routines?
Curling up my kids, working hard , and squeezing in some exercise if I’m lucky.
Gym or running?
I’ll go with the gym. Gotta keep those muscles strong.
Playing or watching football?
Watching all the way. Leave the playing to the pros.
Best investment so far?
Without a doubt, SWIFT Home Lifts… hehe!
As a tourist (and CPO), do you negotiate for a good deal on markets?
You bet! I always try to make things better, or at least give it a shot.
So, your best advice for negotiating a good deal?
Put yourself in the other party’s shoes and use any external factors to your advantage.
What’s the most unique or unusual item you’ve ever had to source for a project?
Hmm… How about a turning knob for AHL? Or the complete logistical supply for installations in Stockholm’s bypass highway tunnels. Those were quite unique.
If you could give one piece of advice to someone starting their career as a purchasing manager, what would it be?
Get the basic data right first, focus on the other persons agenda and situation and make a long-term plan.
Your motto in life?
Never give up and always stay true to yourself.
What’s your most precious thing in your life?
My kids.
Your ultimate life hack?
Be a great father. #dadoftheyear
What does home mean to you?
A place where I can truly relax.
What do you like the most about the SWIFT home lift?
The sound of silence. SWIFT is the quietest home lift on the market, and our state-of-the-art electronic system truly sets us apart.
Moment at work when you feel most proud of yourself?
When our team negotiates a price and quality ratio that is very hard to match anywhere else.
Guilty pleasures?
Playing computer games and indulging in politics and society podcasts a bit too much.
Future dreams?
Oh, I’ve got plenty! First and foremost, I want to see SWIFT Home Lifts thrive and succeed beyond imagination. And on a personal note, I dream of designing and building my very own house (with a SWIFT as a centerpiece of course ).