Inquisitive and resourceful — these are commendable attributes for anyone pursuing a career as a project manager at Swedish Hydro Solutions, according to Erik Tholén.

– Courage is also required. Often, we embark on ventures about which we may not possess extensive knowledge. However, we consistently provide substantial mutual support.

What does a typical workday entail?

– I have two types of workdays. Office days involve interacting with clients, creating quotations and invoicing documents, conducting risk analyses, and documentation. As we are deeply engaged in product development, I collaborate with suppliers to explore ideas for addressing various issues. Frequently, the items we procure require modifications to align with our operations, as the technology and equipment are often new.

– The other typical workday involves fieldwork, averaging about one day a week, although this can vary significantly. There are occasions when I might spend an entire week outdoors if there are multiple ongoing projects that require attention, says Erik.

As a project manager, I'm involved in both the establishment and dismantling phases and conduct site visits in between. The establishment phase typically takes around two days. In extensive projects, ongoing supervision is often handled by the client's personnel, who require training in Swedish Hydro Solutions' specific water treatment technology. This responsibility falls under the project manager's purview.

During site visits, we ensure that everything is functioning as it should. Adjusting water treatment dosages, adding chemicals, or replacing parts that might have malfunctioned could be necessary. A substantial aspect involves managing unforeseen situations; it's quite common for projects to evolve over time, Erik explains.

– Suddenly, there might be a much larger volume of water than anticipated that requires treatment, necessitating expansion. Alternatively, the entire water treatment system may need relocation since that specific area is needed for another purpose on the construction site.

– You get to learn a lot of new things and challenge yourself, which I enjoy. We work with new technology, and getting it right doesn't always happen the first time, or even the second, third, or fourth. However, it's an encouraging workplace where it's easy to ask each other questions, and we collaborate.

– It is also a workplace that prioritizes the well-being and enjoyment of its employees. We engage in various activities together, including weekly group exercise sessions for those interested.

What does the future hold?

– We have a full agenda for today, and undoubtedly, we will expand geographically, possibly into other business areas. Personally, I find it exciting to work on water-related issues for the UN, such as water treatment in refugee camps. In such settings, our technology could have a life-changing impact. We are currently involved in an ongoing EU project and aim to contribute to long-term sustainable development.