My passion for well-being and good structure is my driving force and my focus.
Ulrika Strand, Office Manager at Skeppsholmsgruppen
Skeppsholmsgruppen is a renowned destination in the heart of Stockholm that offers a unique experience to its visitors. Today we have spoken to one of the key people behind this destination, namely our Office Manager Ulrika. We will get an insight into her journey, working day and view on the future of Skeppsholmsgruppen.
What made you choose Skeppsholmsgruppen and how has your journey here been so far? Describe your role and what a working day looks like!
– I have been working here for just over a year. I know Elin, who is one of the founders and owners of the Skeppsholmen Group, and it was through her that I became interested in working here. After seeing several times fantastic pictures, which she shared on social media, from various events at Skeppsholmen, I did not hesitate for a second when the role of Office Manger became relevant. I contacted Elin and it felt right from the first moment. What a team they are and imagine working with them in this unique environment. Today I am very proud and happy to be part of the Skeppsholmen group.
My role as Office Manager involves managing and staffing the office administration. A typical day includes invoicing, being the first line of contact by phone and email to help customers and visitors, updating our calendar, managing purchases, acting as coordinator for our cultural events, managing the customer register, assisting with requests for photography and filming, and designing signs, quotes and printed materials. I’ve also been entrusted with decorating our beautiful new office, which we moved into six months ago. An important part of the experience for both visitors and our team.
Can you share some of the most memorable moments or events you have experienced during your time at Skeppsholmsgruppen?
We organized an event with some of our partners Öppet hav, Briggen Tre Kronor and Lustholmen Catering. What an experience to get the combination, full speed with RIB boats through the archipelago, docking the Brig to sail at sunset and enjoying fantastic food. We really create unforgettable memories for our customers.
Another strong memory is that during my first week, I had the opportunity to sit up in the VIP stand and watch a Candlelight concert, it was truly magical. It’s amazing to see how one place can be transformed into a concert hall, a spectacular corporate event or a beautiful and dignified memorial service – all depending on the client’s needs and wishes. I am always impressed by what my colleagues have created.
What qualities and skills do you consider most valuable to succeed in your role at Skeppsholmsgruppen?
Creating a good structure and efficient workflows is crucial to success and I work with that daily to contribute to the whole and a good working environment. I am really passionate about the well-being factor and making everyday life easier for my colleagues. I have previous experience from roles as an assistant and designer in an advertising agency which has helped me develop these skills. Being able to adapt to different tasks and challenges is also important, as my role here at Skeppsholmsgruppen involves variation between practical and administrative tasks.
Can you share a story where you and your team managed to exceed customer expectations?
We were very involved during Culture Night, where the whole of Skeppsholmen was buzzing with activity. The Eric Ericsson Hall was the stage for concerts, choirs and jazz together with a DJ who really set the mood. It was magical!
Another occasion was when one of our clients had very high expectations for the event and we were keen to make it memorable and meet all the client’s wishes. By working together as a team, we even managed to exceed the client’s expectations. After the event, we received a lot of positive feedback and the client was very happy with the experience we delivered and it was a great feeling for us as a team.
How do you see the future of the Skeppsholm Group? What trends and changes in the tourism industry do you think will affect your work most in the future?
– I am optimistic about the future of the Skeppsholmen Group. We aim to put Destination Skeppsholmen on the map and create an oasis in the heart of Stockholm. Working together to offer unique experiences is our goal. In terms of trends in the hospitality industry, I believe that sustainability and digitalization will be crucial factors. We will need to adapt and innovate to meet the expectations and needs of our visitors in the future.
