You have to be brave and address the things that irritate

Madeleine Edvinsson started at Gnosjö Automatsvarvning in 1990. Her first job was simple sorting work in the warehouse. Since then, the company has grown by a further 50 or so employees, 30 lathes, and 5,000 square metres. Now she’s head of that same warehouse and is responsible for a team of some 13 employees.
“I have a fantastic team. Everyone pitches in and helps each other. If, for example, 30 pallets need to be packed before the weekend and we’re running short on time, we solve the problem together,” says Madde, as everyone calls her.
For Madde, collaboration is essential for a pleasant and efficient work environment. If given the choice, she’d rather jump in and help with the work in the warehouse than sit in meetings, which she has to do more of now that she’s a warehouse manager.
“Yes, it seems that there are only more and more meetings,” Madde laughs and continues: “But as a manager I think the most important thing is to be helpful to my colleagues. If an extra hand is needed to solve something, they should be able to ask me. And since I’ve been in the warehouse for so long, I can jump in anywhere.”
In her work as a manager, she emphasises the importance of daily management, giving each other feedback, and being responsive and addressing the things that might feel a little uncomfortable. Here, being caring and showing sensitivity are two important qualities. As is having the tenacity to put your foot down.
“I work with the day-to-day management of a small group, so that everyone knows what needs to be done. Then the whole team meets every Monday. In these meetings, I like us to look at the things that are irritating us and that don’t feel right. There are those who say a lot, while others are less comfortable. You have to be aware of that and pay attention to how people react.”
Part of Madde’s development as a manager is the coaching offered by the company. In 2022, Madde, together with two managerial colleagues, worked with leadership coach Jonna Alfredsson. This has helped Madde to develop as a manager and person.
“Jonna’s way of working suits me as she’s very open, which strengthens me as a person. She’s helped me to see my strengths and understand my value.”