I am a seasoned Project Manager interested in technology & ideas. Looking for and understanding the people, projects and things that break status quo.
I thrive when puzzling tasks and facing unknown domains. I approach my work with ownership and passion. I have a strong bias for action, impact, and execution but I really don't rely on prescriptive rules, policies, and procedures to drive results - navigating uncertainty while approaching complex issues sits at the heart of everything I do.
Have an exciting opportunity and want to get in touch? Contact me here or shoot me a message on LinkedIn.
I thrive at the intersection of business and IT and hold the sometimes overlooked value of being able to co-operate and interact with individuals with different backgrounds very dearly. Being an outgoing and social individual I excel in stakeholder management and hold strong communication skills in order to build and nurture relationships that facilitate decision-making at all levels and across disciplines.
Conversation sparks imagination, facilitates creativity and ignites insights. I believe in the process of sharing ideas and balancing the bigger picture while not losing sight of the details. Leading through ambiguity in an environment with many different stakeholders comes natural to me and I enjoy collaborating and communicating creatively to engage team members and colleagues in my ideas overcoming obstacles to deliver impactful solutions and drive complex projects.
Stakeholder Management
Business Development
Change Management
Strategy
PRINCE2 AGILE Practitioner
Professional Scrum Masterâ„¢ I
2024 - today
Owner & Advisor// dinstudievejledning.dk
During the past months, I worked on a project I hold very close to my heart - dinstudievejledning.dk - helping students navigating the overwhelming world of bureaucracy within academic institutions. As an independent advisor, I assist students facing challenges during their studies, provide sparring based on an open dialogue with my clients and their respective situation and finding the best solution possible within the given institutional context.
Services include mapping current situation and opportunities, defining special circumstances, assistance as co-counsel during meetings with University officials, support with collecting needed documentation for complaints, applications (e.g. extension of the stipulated time frame to complete a programme, alternative examination form, extension of examination duration, additional three examination attempts etc.) - knowing the system from within, my mission is to help the next generation to achieve their goals even if life can be overwhelming .
2022 - 2023
Implementation Lead // BAT Denmark
At BAT Denmark, I led the transformative software deployment across the Nordic region, impacting over 200 daily end-users.
2018 - 2022
Government Affairs Consultant // BAT Denmark
In my role, I navigated a highly regulated environment, collaborating with internal and external legal counsels to steer the business strategically.
2017 - 2018
Junior Consultant // Rud Pedersen Public Affairs
As a Junior Consultant, I played a pivotal role in identifying and capitalizing on new business opportunities for both new and existing clients.
2015 - 2017
Analyst // JP/Politikens Hus
In this role, I significantly contributed to product development and market strategy.
2013 - 2015
Communications Assistant // Saxo Bank
As a Communications Assistant, I supported the team in managing internal and external communication initiatives.
2009 - 2013
Professional Athlee // Self-employed
During my high school years and before starting university, I competed as a top-level equestrian at the international level. This experience was instrumental in shaping my character and work ethic.
This period of my life not only defined my personal and professional foundation but also equipped me with transferable skills such as discipline, resilience, and a strong work ethic, which continue to drive my success in all subsequent endeavors.
My peers know me best for being a structured, thoughtful and high-energy individual with a positive outlook - I balance empathy and leadership during challenging projects and have a personal investment in my team members success. I am driven by curiosity and bring a genuine interest in understanding my surroundings.
I don't mind if things move fast and don't turn out in as originally planned - certain issues require quick actions and prioritizing accordingly serves long-term goals more than sticking to prescriptive rules and policies. Being adaptable to change and getting the best out of a given situation fuels my energy and I thrive when navigating uncertainties.
During the day, I will usually have my fair share of double espressos (with whole milk or even better heavy cream!) sharing smiles and laughter at the coffee machine - former peers compliment my energy lifting theirs due to my positive mindset and outlook even when under pressure :)
I reside in Copenhagen with my dog Vivi, a 5-year-old Welsh Corgi Cardigan. As a former professional athlete, I prioritize physical and mental well-being, dedicating early mornings to weightlifting sessions at the gym.
I grew up between cultures and places - born to Danish/German & Lithuanian/Russian parents I thrive working in an international environment and I am fluent in Danish, German and English. I took Italian language classes in high school and I am now improving my French skills on a daily (thanks Duolingo!).
Additionally, I serve as a lay judge for a second consecutive four-year term at the Town Court of Frederiksberg fostering a sense of civic duty and nourishing my interest in law. I cherish traveling and value cross-cultural experiences. In addition to this, I enjoy reading philosophy, rock music, and nurturing my creative side through cooking, brewing beers, and exploring various artistic pursuits such as nail art and painting.
Moreover, I've also worked on several own ideas, ranging from a 'Tinder for dogsitting' to an app focused on pantry cooking, personal finance management, and monitoring the political landscape. These diverse interests fuel my curiosity, creativity, and resilience, fostering a well-rounded and adaptable approach to both personal and professional endeavors. Alongside these pursuits, I strive to keep up my basic coding knowledge from university aiming to better understand the technology landscape I work within.
© 2024 Andrea Appel. All rights reserved.