Geir Håøy

Geir Håøy is a prominent Norwegian business executive who has served as the President and Chief Executive Officer of the major defense and technology conglomerate Kongsberg Gruppen since 2015. Under his leadership, the company has significantly expanded its global footprint, particularly in the domains of naval defense, aerospace, and digital solutions. Håøy is widely recognized for steering the corporation through a period of substantial growth and internationalization, solidifying its position as a key player within the Norwegian defense industry and the broader European defence sector.

Early life and education

Geir Håøy was born in 1962 in Norway. He pursued a higher education in engineering, graduating with a Master of Science degree from the Norwegian University of Science and Technology in Trondheim. His academic background provided a strong technical foundation for his subsequent career in advanced technology industries. Following his studies, Håøy began his professional journey within the Norwegian industrial sector, where he quickly developed expertise in complex systems and project management.

Career at Kongsberg Gruppen

Håøy joined Kongsberg Gruppen in 1991, initially working within the company's Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace division. He held various engineering and managerial positions, contributing to major projects for the Royal Norwegian Navy and international clients. His early career involved work on sophisticated systems like the Naval Strike Missile and the Joint Strike Missile program. Håøy's responsibilities expanded over the years, and he played a significant role in the development and export of the Protector remote weapon station, a product line that achieved considerable success in markets like the United States Armed Forces.

Leadership at Kongsberg Gruppen

Appointed President and CEO in 2015, succeeding Walter Qvam, Geir Håøy has overseen a transformative era for Kongsberg Gruppen. His tenure has been marked by strategic acquisitions, such as the purchase of Rolls-Royce Commercial Marine, which was integrated to form Kongsberg Maritime. He has also driven the expansion of the company's space and surveillance activities, including investments in Kongsberg Satellite Services and the development of new satellite constellations. A key achievement has been the securing of major international contracts, notably the multi-billion dollar deal to supply the NASAMS air defense system to the Ukrainian Armed Forces and several NATO members. Under his guidance, the company's collaboration with partners like General Dynamics and BAE Systems has deepened, and its stock listing on the Oslo Stock Exchange has seen significant appreciation.

Other roles and affiliations

Beyond his executive duties, Geir Håøy holds several important positions in Norwegian and international industry organizations. He serves as a board member of NHO, the Confederation of Norwegian Enterprise, and is involved with Innovation Norway. Håøy is also a member of the European Round Table for Industry and contributes to advisory councils for institutions like the Norwegian University of Science and Technology. His insights on defense policy, technology innovation, and industrial strategy are frequently sought by forums such as the Oslo Business Forum and publications like the Financial Times.

Personal life

Geir Håøy maintains a relatively private personal life. He is married and resides in Norway. An avid outdoorsman, he enjoys activities such as skiing and hiking in the Norwegian countryside. Håøy is also known to have an interest in history and technology, passions that align closely with his professional work at the intersection of engineering and national security.

Category:Norwegian businesspeople Category:Norwegian chief executives Category:1962 births Category:Living people