With a solid background as former Secretary General of the Norwegian Press Association, chair of the government’s Freedom of Expression Commission, and current Chairman of the Board of Schibsted Media, she has deep insight into how freedom of expression and critical thinking can strengthen board work.
Unheard! What can we learn from Kjersti Løken Stavrum’s book?
In the book ‘Unheard! The fear of the free word’, Løken Stavrum explores how freedom of expression should ensure a diversity of opinions and counter-opinions – and what happens when these are not given space. In her talk for the Executive Board Forum, she will discuss the dangers of suppressing critical voices in order to maintain consensus and harmony in the boardroom.
She warns against what she calls ‘the problem-industrial complex’ and explains how we often allow ourselves to be ruled by our dramatic instincts. The result? Important critical perspectives are overlooked, which can lead to poor decisions.
Why critical voices are crucial to board success
An effective board isn’t just about making quick decisions, it’s about ensuring that the decisions made are well-founded and quality assured. This is where the critical voices play a crucial role.
By opening up for free and honest discussions, boards can avoid pitfalls such as group thinking. However, this requires the courage to create a culture where the ‘demanding voices’ are not ignored or marginalized. Løken Stavrum emphasizes that diversity of opinion is not a threat to collaboration – it’s a strength.
How to improve your board’s decision-making processes
In the Executive Board Forum, Stavrum will share concrete advice from her book that can strengthen the work in the boardroom:
• Be open to dissent: Create a culture where all voices are heard – including those that challenge the status quo.
• Avoid group thinking: Introduce processes that actively promote different perspectives.
• Focus on facts, not emotions: Practice identifying and avoiding instinctive, dramatic reactions.
Your Leadership Matters
At Scandinavian Executive Institute, we believe that strong leadership in the boardroom makes a difference. Our mantra ‘Your Leadership Matters’ emphasizes the importance of conscious and responsible leadership
Kjersti Løken Stavrum’s message of freedom of expression and critical dialogue aligns perfectly with our mission. By applying the insights and principles from ‘Unheard!’, boards can strengthen their work and make better decisions – decisions that really matter.
Meet Kjersti Løkke Stavrum at the Executive Board Forum in Oslo
Do you want to improve your board work and be inspired by one of the Nordic region’s most experienced leaders in freedom of expression? Then Executive Board Forum in Oslo on Tuesday 11 February 2025 is the perfect place for you.
Join us for a day filled with insight, inspiration and practical tools that can boost both your leadership and board effectiveness. Sign up here.
Your leadership makes a difference
Attending the Executive Board Forum is an investment in your own development as a leader and in the future success of your board. Together, let’s create a culture where critical thinking, diversity and courageous decisions take center stage.
Sign up now and join us in making a difference in the boardroom.
