Strategy at Nordfyns Municipality

The municipality has written a strategy and development plan for 2020-2022 named “We create the future of Nordfyn – together”. The strategy is centered around creating sustainable welfare and growth. Taking their Vision 2021 as their starting point, the municipality focuses on the following future challenges: welfare, growth, and the green transition.

What is the main challenge in your strategy realization?

Our strategic approach must be flexible and dynamic. Our strategic work has to be able to encompass the complex relationship between what is new and what is well-known as well as other dilemmas. We must be able to move between domains and change positions. For instance, if our finances start to slide, then we need to be able to adjust our plans. Previously, I have been sitting in a closed room, while trying to think big thoughts. It did not work. You need to work in an engaging way where it is clear which role each employee has. The strategy must be visible in the daily life of your organization.

How do you understand the term "strategy"?

Working strategically is being reflective and setting a course that can be adjusted along the way. You have to see the bigger picture and look two-three years ahead. And you have to follow up! Previously, we were not systematic enough when following up on our strategy. Nowadays, we define indicators and perform systematic follow-ups. It must be equally natural for you to follow up on your strategy as it is to follow up on your budget process.

How do you manage the strategy realization?

Our strategy must belong to the entire organization and not only to top management. We want to strengthen the cohesion of our organization, and to do so we must present a clear-cut strategic direction that corresponds to the great welfare challenges that we are faced with. Strategy is a matter of having a united approach when performing tasks, which is why it is important to make practical work a part of one’s strategic mindset. Our strategy is the principle of our entire organization.

All levels of our organization must cohere, and these days we pay way more attention to our organization as a whole. This creates a greater sense of commitment towards the community.