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Mikkel Gladhaug
Senior Manager, Corporate Strategy at Virgin Atlantic
Professional Background
Mikkel Gladhaug is a distinguished professional with extensive experience in corporate strategy and commercial leadership across multiple sectors, including hospitality and aviation. His impressive career has been marked by a series of strategic roles at prominent organizations. Currently, he serves as the Senior Manager for Corporate Strategy at Virgin Atlantic, where he plays a pivotal role in shaping the strategic direction of the airline. Mikkel's career journey reflects a deep commitment to driving growth and innovation in the corporate sector.
Before his current position at Virgin Atlantic, Mikkel held several influential roles within the company, including Corporate Strategy Manager. His insights and strategic acumen were instrumental in developing key initiatives that enhance Virgin Atlantic's market position and operational efficiency.
Additionally, Mikkel has made significant contributions to Whitbread, a leading UK hospitality company. As the Commercial Lead for Airports, Hub & Zip, and previously as the Commercial & Strategy Manager for Premier Inn Germany, he was an integral figure in expanding the company's footprint and improving its competitive edge in the hotel market.
His prior experience also includes substantial roles within the InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG®), where he advanced through various positions such as Manager and Senior Analyst in Global Strategy. Here, Mikkel was part of a team that developed strategic frameworks to maximize IHG®'s global operational potential, focusing on customer experience and profitability. Moreover, Mikkel began his career at PwC Strategy, where he contributed to deals strategy as both an Associate and Senior Associate, gaining foundational experience in corporate analysis and strategic consulting.
Education and Achievements
Mikkel's educational background is as impressive as his professional accomplishments. He holds a Master of Philosophy (MPhil) in Management from the prestigious University of Cambridge's Judge Business School. His education at Cambridge provided him with an opportunity to delve deeply into various aspects of management theory and practice, equipping him with the analytical skills needed for high-level strategic decision-making.
Prior to earning his MPhil, Mikkel completed his Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Politics, Psychology, and Sociology at the same esteemed institution. This multidisciplinary background has allowed him to approach business challenges with a comprehensive perspective, blending insights from psychology and sociology into strategic management practices. His ability to understand consumer behavior and organizational dynamics has been a key asset throughout his career.
Notable Achievements
Mikkel's career is characterized by significant achievements that highlight his strategic prowess and leadership capabilities. At Virgin Atlantic, he led initiatives that not only improved the airline's market competitiveness but also enhanced customer engagement levels. His visionary approach in corporate strategy has made substantial contributions to the airline's long-term planning and success.
In his roles at Whitbread, Mikkel successfully spearheaded projects that expanded brand visibility and operational capacity, particularly during challenging market conditions. His strategic leadership in Premier Inn Germany set the groundwork for future expansions and operational excellence.
During his tenure at IHG®, Mikkel was a vital member of a team that orchestrated successful market entry strategies, particularly focusing on the European market. His contributions significantly influenced IHG®'s growth and the overall guest experience.
Mikkel's ability to combine analytical rigor with strategic foresight has earned him recognition as a thought leader in corporate strategy. His ongoing commitment to personal and professional development is evidenced by his academic achievements and his proactive approach to embracing industry trends and innovations.
tags':['MPhil Management', 'Politics Psychology Sociology', 'Corporate Strategy', 'Commercial Lead', 'InterContinental Hotels Group', 'PwC Strategy', 'Virgin Atlantic', 'Whitbread', 'Global Strategy', 'Hospitality Leadership'],
questions
How did Mikkel Gladhaug develop his expertise in corporate strategy over the years?
What key initiatives has Mikkel Gladhaug implemented at Virgin Atlantic that have significantly impacted the airline's success?
In what ways has Mikkel's educational background from Cambridge influenced his approach to management and strategy?
What strategies did Mikkel Gladhaug employ at Whitbread to enhance Premier Inn's market presence in Germany?
How does Mikkel Gladhaug integrate insights from psychology and sociology into his strategic decision-making process?
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