The vast majority of Danish companies have an owner manager. The owner-manager will typically take the position of CEO of the company.

An owner-manager is a central figure in the corporate world who combines the role of owner and manager of a company. This unique combination of responsibilities gives the owner-manager deep involvement in the company’s daily operations as well as strategic decisions. The role of the owner-manager is crucial for small and medium-sized companies, as they often play a decisive role in the company’s development, growth and success.


Key responsibilities and functions

Owner managers are responsible for a wide range of tasks and decisions, ranging from finance and operations to personnel management and strategic planning. Here are some of the main key responsibilities and functions that define the role of an owner manager:

  • Strategic Management: The owner-manager is responsible for determining the company’s long-term goals, developing strategies and making decisions to ensure the company’s growth and sustainability.
  • Operational Operations: Owner-managers often actively participate in the company’s day-to-day operations, including sales, marketing, production and customer service.
  • Financial Management: The owner manager is responsible for monitoring the company’s finances, budgeting, accounting and financial reporting.
  • Innovation: Owner-managers play a key role in driving innovation and developing new products, services or business models to meet customer needs and remain competitive.
  • Personnel management: Recruiting, motivating and managing employees is a significant part of the owner-manager’s responsibility. Creating a positive work culture and strengthening the team is essential for the company’s success.
  • Relationships and Network: The owner manager establishes and maintains relationships with customers, suppliers, business partners and stakeholders in order to create value and drive the business forward.

Owner Manager’s Challenges
Being an owner-manager also brings with it a number of challenges. Owner-managers are often faced with decisions with significant consequences for the company and its employees. They must balance managing day-to-day operations and developing a long-term strategy. Economic uncertainty, competition and changing market conditions are also challenges that owner-managers often face.


The owner-manager’s influence on the company’s culture
An owner-manager’s values, vision and working methods can have a profound influence on the company’s culture and direction. The owner-manager acts as a role model and inspiration for employees and can shape the company’s values, ethics and mission.


An owner manager is more than just a manager; it is a person with a deep passion for the company’s success and a strong will to drive change and innovation. Owner-managers play an indispensable role in the economy by creating jobs, driving growth and contributing to community development. Their commitment and determination is a critical factor in shaping businesses and societies in an ever-changing world.