Exploring the concept of a high-performance culture rooted in values has been a recent focus of mine. I’ve been seeking a philosophy that prioritizes progress and activation as essential aspects of our humanity, forming the basis for a culture that embraces both collectivism and individualism. I refer to this as the “Viking Code,” drawing inspiration from the remarkable individuals and accomplishments of my homeland, Norway, across various fields like sports, education, politics, and business. Despite its origins in Norway, the Viking Code has the potential to become a universal guiding principle.
One memorable autumn day in Paris, I had the privilege of addressing a group of prominent CEOs and politicians at the Royal Norwegian Embassy—La Norvège en France. The conversations held that day were far from mundane business talks; they were infused with a profound sense of purpose and dedication to causes larger than profitability, with Nicolai Tangen, the head of the world’s largest sovereign wealth fund, leading the discussions.
Listening to Tangen, I couldn’t help but notice his deep connection to Norwegian culture. He seamlessly blends personal success with a strong commitment to the common good, embodying a new paradigm of achievement and success.
Months later, amidst the snowy streets of Davos during the World Economic Forum, I encountered Tangen again. Despite his bustling schedule and Norwegian backpack in tow, he exuded a sense of unhurried presence, making time for meaningful conversations. There’s a certain magic in individuals who appear to effortlessly manage their time, remain fully engaged, and achieve remarkable feats.
Modern leadership
Tangen, with his unique Norwegian-English accent and perpetual motion, symbolizes the modern Viking archetype: ever active, always in motion, and constantly engaged. Hailing from the unassuming Kristiansand, his background belies the extraordinary position he holds as the head of Norges Bank Investment Management, overseeing the Norwegian sovereign wealth fund established in 1990. This fund, vital to the Norwegian economy, aims to invest current revenues from oil and gas production for long-term sustainability beyond the oil era.
Under Tangen’s leadership, the fund has flourished. Since assuming his role in September 2020, the fund has grown steadily from $1.1 trillion to $1.7 trillion, defying global challenges. Tangen’s initiatives, such as enhancing transparency by publishing voting decisions ahead of annual meetings, have bolstered the fund’s influence on corporate governance and climate protection efforts. This success has not only strengthened public trust in the fund but also exemplified Tangen’s dynamic leadership approach.
Traditionally, the CEO of the sovereign wealth fund operated discreetly, but Tangen has redefined this role by stepping into the public eye. Through his podcast “In Good Company” on platforms like YouTube and Spotify, Tangen shares insights on corporate affairs, entrepreneurship, climate, and sustainability while engaging in conversations with prominent figures from various sectors. His accessible yet focused demeanor resonates with a diverse audience, positioning him as a modern influencer advocating for a new performance ethic.
Tangen’s ability to balance personal branding with a collective ethos is remarkable. Companies in which the fund invests recognize the impact of any missteps on reputation due to Tangen’s vocal stance on issues like climate and ethics. His recent public dispute with Elon Musk over salary demands further underscores his commitment to values over profit, showcasing the transformative power of redefining success within a corporate context.
Elon Musk dispute
Despite his success, Tangen remains grounded, emphasizing the importance of hard work, dedication, and the accumulation of small moments that contribute to larger achievements. Upholding the ideals of the Viking Code, Tangen exemplifies how individual drive and community spirit can coalesce to drive positive change.
Tangen’s approach blends traditional Norwegian wisdom with a global perspective, emphasizing that true leadership extends beyond financial gains to encompass ecological responsibility and ethical integrity. As a beacon of modern leadership, Tangen inspires not only profitability within his companies but also a positive contribution to society and the environment.
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