Now it's time for the next chapter.

"I've had the same workplace all my life, but in many different roles. It feels both unusual and good to hand over," he says.

Olov belongs to the fourth generation of Martinsons in the family business, which developed from a local village sawmill to one of Sweden's most influential players in wood construction. When Holmen acquired Martinsons in 2020, he had overall responsibility for the entire industrial operation and played an important role in the transition and integration. He thought it was interesting to stay on as site manager in Bygdsiljum.

"For me, it was about taking responsibility for the business, the people and ensuring that the transition to Holmen was as good as possible. Now, six years later, I feel that that journey has landed well. The business has found its place in Holmen, the organisation is strong and it feels natural to hand over to the next leader.

 

The people behind the development

When Olov sums up his years in the company, it is mainly about the people.

"It's the people behind it who make the difference. Technology and investments are important, but without committed and competent employees, you won't get far.

Over the years, he has seen the business grow, modernize and develop, but also how participation and shared responsibility have been crucial to the success.

"It doesn't matter what I think if I don't get the others on board. The best results are created together.

 

"What has driven me over the years is to see opportunities where others see problems and to get people to believe in what we can accomplish together."

 

From village sawmill to the development of wood construction

Olov is particularly proud of the role Martinsons has played in the development of modern wood construction in Sweden.

"We have been involved in advancing the positions of wood as a building material. It has required a lot of innovative thinking and many skilled people along the way.

He also highlights the innovative power that exists in the business.

"When people have the opportunity to test ideas and develop solutions together, a lot happens.

 

Strong faith in the future

Despite some challenging years for the industry, confidence in the future is strong.

"Sweden has fantastic forest resources and wood is a material with great potential. I am very hopeful for the future.

And even though he is now leaving the operational role, he does not look back so much but forward.

"We are still in the middle of the journey. There is still a lot left to develop.