40

Today exactly 40 years ago, on 4 November 1984, I served my first day in Customs.

I was busy with my academic studies and my sports career, but I needed a temporary job. My cousin worked in Swedish Customs and my aunt gave me the tip to apply for a temporary summer job there, so I did. It became more than a temporary chapter, it became my life. And it is still today the only job I have ever applied for in my career. 

I found my passion for customs. I still find it the most exciting topic there is and I am learning more every day.

Customs has taken me far out in the world, to 174 countries to date. This profession has given me friends all around the world, our community of experts – the famous customs family. Once customs, always customs.

Customs is keeping our borders safe, all days of the year, all hours of the day. Customs make trade work in a safe, secure and facilitated way. Trade generates growth and prosperity. 

Over four decades I have had the fortune to work on all levels, including holding executive customs positions in International Institutions, Government and the last twelve years in Private Sector. In addition Customs has given me an academic career.

This is a landmark day for me. 40 years. And I still have some miles to go. More to learn. More to do. Learning is life, life is learning. Off towards 50. 

I still love my job, my profession – since Customs has never been more important than now, but it will be more important tomorrow.