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Per Nordén’s new job is an old one – chief security officer at Lund University

Per Nordén in the Botanical garden
Being called Per or Håkan seems to be one of the eligibility requirements to become chief security officer at Lund University: the last five have been called either Per or Håkan but, for this Per, it is the second time around. Photo: Jenny Loftrup

Per Nordén is not really new to the job of chief security officer. He started working at Lund University’s security division seventeen years ago, staying until 2007, when he took a break. During his twelve-year absence, he worked in the municipality of Kävlinge and most recently at Tetra Pak.

The reason for his return is that he very much enjoyed working at Lund University. From the 26th of June he will be back.

“I really like working at Lund University, with its wonderful environments, people and history. When I was previously employed at Lund University, I always felt pride in my part in community building. I find that to be a clear expression of Lund University and I have longed to get that feeling back”, says Per Nordén.

It was also here that Nordén completed his Bachelor of Laws degree, so he has experienced the University both as a student and as an employee.

Another aspect of the position as chief security officer that appeals to him is the multifaceted work that comprises more than just physical security.

“The University takes a holistic approach to risks, buildings, insurance, etc. and works with risk management from a holistic perspective.”

Lund University is planning an investment in the field of security, with several positions. Per Nordén explains that this is a response to increased demands on public authorities to be better prepared for security issues.

“There is perhaps also a general feeling that more things happen nowadays. Incidents tend to be amplified. But the new positions are not due to an increased sense of insecurity at the University.”

However, returning to an old work environment has both advantages and disadvantages, according to Per Nordén.

“I know how the organisation works but I have not kept abreast of the changes that have taken place in my absence. It is a huge organisation and society’s demands are greater. The security field covers more and more – environments, premises and threats.”

As the new chief security officer, he sees it as one of his most important tasks to build the organisation’s confidence in the expertise of the security division.

“I believe in helping people to help themselves, and I want to offer support to the organisation in working on its risks. Crisis management is mainly based on three principles: responsibility, equality and proximity. This means that a large part of the preparedness must be based out in the organisation. We will offer training courses and drills.”

Per Nordén has many strings to his bow; in fact he spends his leisure time both playing and repairing string instruments.

“I play the guitar and enjoy repairing both guitars and tube amplifiers. Sometimes I perform in front of an audience with my band. We play rock, blues or jump blues”, smiles Per Nordén, describing the latter genre as a jazzy form of blues.

Anna Mansfeld