Every year since 2009, E24 has highlighted the next generation of leaders in Norwegian business and industry.
The nomination for E24's Young Leader of the Year 2026 is now open, and together with E24, we at MeyerHaugen are proud to contribute to the work of finding young leaders who achieve results, build culture, and help those around them to grow.
For many, this award isn't just about a place on a list.
This is an acknowledgement of people who have chosen to take responsibility early, face demanding decisions and create results through others.
LAST YEAR'S WINNER: Thea Witzø Johannessen from IKEA won first place and the title Leader Talent of the Year in E24's ranking in 2025.
One of Norway's most important leadership awards
E24's "Young Leader of the Year" award highlights the next generation of top leaders in Norwegian business. The candidates are leaders under 35 years of age who have demonstrated the ability to achieve results, drive development, and demonstrate leadership that makes a difference.
It's not necessarily about titles or the size of the organisation. Many of the most exciting candidates are people who create direction, influence others, and build strong environments through expertise, culture, and execution ability.
We are looking for candidates from all over the country, across industries, companies and roles.
How do we find Norway's greatest leadership talents?
In this special episode of our podcast, Petter Meyer and Sverre Haugen talk about what the jury looks for, how the process works, and why good leadership matters more than ever.
As Petter Meyer says in this year's podcast episode about the ranking:
«Just being nominated is a big recognition.»
Do you know a leadership talent? Nominate the person here
What are the jury looking for?
To be nominated, the candidate must:
- be 35 years old or younger
- result, personnel and/or decision-making responsibility
- work in Norwegian business
But good leadership qualities are about more than titles and CVs.
The jury is looking for fearless individuals who have chosen to take on leadership challenges early. People who combine demanding responsibility with human warmth. Who create results, but also make those around them grow.
We are looking for candidates from all over the country, across industries, companies and roles.
More subject categories
In addition to the main award, prizes are also presented in several subject areas:
- Economy star of the year
- Tech-mind of the year
- Company-Builder of the year
- Organizational Developer of the year
- Sustainability of the year
- Commercial Head of the Year
Therefore we get involved
At MeyerHaugen, we work every day to identify, assess, and develop leaders. That's why we also find this award important.
We believe Norway needs more good leaders, and that young people who take responsibility and drive development deserve to be showcased.
Do you need leaders who foster development?
Through the work with E24 Young Leader of the Year, we meet some of the most exciting leadership profiles in Norwegian working life each year.
In our daily work, we help companies with the recruitment of managers and key personnel, as well as interim management when needs arise quickly.
👉 Read more about our recruitment services interim management
