Barbro Renkel has been appointed as the new CEO of eXpression Umeå as of 1 January 2021. Barbro has previously worked as a senior business developer within the organisation and has experience of the innovation system and the creative sector at regional, national and international level. The former CEO of the business incubator, Marlene Johansson, is moving on to a research position at RISE.
- It feels both inspiring and fun to further develop what Marlene has initiated during eXpression Umeå's last three years. The creative sector in Umeå has never been more interesting and exciting. These are entrepreneurs who are constantly at the forefront, developing new business models and taking responsibility for sustainable development in a natural way. As an incubator for these progressive industries, it is therefore particularly important to continue to develop and challenge ourselves. I look forward to leading this work. Barbro Renkel.
Currently, eXpression Umeå's activities involve around 90 companies at various stages and is surrounded by a strong network of both local creators and partners from all sectors of society. The incubator has experienced rapid growth and has recently taken its place as a strong national player in the industry.
- Under Marlene's leadership, eXpression Umeå has become one of Sweden's leading incubators for the artistic, cultural and creative industries. The internal appointment of Barbro Renkel as the new CEO creates good opportunities to maintain continuity in the business while working on the company's long-term development plan and direction. It is exciting to continue working with Barbro and the strong team of employees," says Roland Carlsson, Chairman of the Board, eXpression Umeå.
Marlene Johansson is moving on to a research position at RISE where she will work on research related to the creative sector and take on the role of project manager for a future European Knowledge and Innovation Programme (KIC) for the cultural and creative industries.
- Barbro is the right person to lead eXpression Umeå to new successes. She has extensive experience in the innovation system and has been involved in building the business from the start. For me, this has been a dream job, to develop the incubator together with great people and be part of the creative and inclusive environment that eXpression Umeå is. I really want to congratulate Barbro and the whole team. I look forward to us continuing to contribute to Umeå's and the region's creative sector together. Together we are strong, says Marlene Johansson, current CEO of eXpression Umeå.
Photographer: Maria Persson
