From Graduate to Director | 19 questions to Halvor Lukerstuen, HXM Director

What motivated you to join the Graduate program? 

I was actually headhunted. But it seemed like a good opportunity to work with tech and business at the same time, building and delivering HR systems and processes for businesses. I talked with different people in the company, and it seemed like a great working culture and environment – and the people I met was very nice.

What advice would you give yourself on your first day as a Graduate? 

Do exactly the same. I’ve had a great career here, so I wouldn’t do it any other way, other than to reiterate to come in with a positive attitude, curiosity, excitement, and a willingness to learn. The best recipe for success here.

What is a proud moment in your career so far? 

When I transitioned to the role as Human Experience Management (HXM) Director. It has always been a goal for me from the very beginning.

Was there as person or moment that helped shape your career path? 

The most important change was shifting to my current manager, who’s been my manager for almost seven years now. We have worked very close and tremendously well together, and she has helped me as my mentor.

Why did you move from the Norwegian office to the Swedish office? 

My move from the Norway office to the Sweden office was part of NTT DATA’s ambition to grow the HXM department in Stockholm, just as we have done successfully in other countries. It was a welcome change to be able to move from Oslo to Stockholm with NTT DATA. A new experience in a wonderful city with good restaurants and beautiful architecture. And I’ve met a lot of nice people in here.

The most “Swedish” thing you have done since moving?

I have been to a lot of Eurovision watch parties.

What is the most surprising part of becoming Director?

I’ve discovered that people in leadership positions don’t have all the answers. You look up to them as an employee and you think they got all the answers and everything is structured and perfect. But it is still human beings figuring things out – just on a different level. And as a Director, you are expected to have a structured approach to making informed decisions and to be well-reasoned. But essentially, we are all people.

What pushed you out of your comfort zone? 

I had a project that grew complex due to a mismatch in expectations. It challenged me to take ownership in a high-pressure environment and align internal teams while managing the client’s expectations and concerns at the same time. It is the kind of challenge that makes you grow as a consultant. But, going out of my comfort zone can also be enjoyable, like going out on stage and speaking in front of a lot of people. One of the biggest moments was when I travelled to Dubai to speak at HR Connect at The Four Seasons Hotel for 500 people. I listened to Vivaldi’s The Four Seasons before I went on stage. It helps me get ready.

Name a sound or smell that takes you straight back to childhood 

Freshly made waffles. When I was little and stayed with my grandparents, they would always make waffles. They are very sweet and almost like a little cake.

What is your favorite thing about working across countries?

It’s enriching having different cultural influences on our work. You notice how we think differently. It opens up for international customers, to work with equally large or multicultural customers. It also adds a lot of value to the work we’re delivering, but also to my experience in the workplace. I love having my life enriched with other ideas, thoughts, and methods, and I get very bored when things are the same.