Former Venstre leader and Defense Minister Jakob Ellemann-Jensen returns to the public spotlight—this time outside Christiansborg. On January 1, 2025, he will assume a new role as Deputy Director at Dansk Erhverv. In this position, he will oversee areas such as digitalization and technology, international relations, media, finance, and defense and emergency preparedness.
Ellemann-Jensen announced the news in a LinkedIn post, expressing his excitement for this new chapter.
“I am looking forward to working for some of Denmark’s most important and innovative companies. I will do so alongside talented, professional, and principled people at Dansk Erhverv,” he wrote.
Strategic position
In his new role, Ellemann-Jensen will play a key part in strengthening the competitiveness of Danish businesses, particularly in technology and digitalization—two fields already critical to the growth of many companies. His prior experience in defense and emergency preparedness will also be an asset, as the business sector faces increasing demands for security and resilience.
Brian Mikkelsen, CEO of Dansk Erhverv and a former political colleague of Ellemann-Jensen, reportedly played a central role in recruiting him. Ellemann-Jensen highlighted Mikkelsen’s optimism and leadership as major inspirations.
“Brian and I know each other from politics. He is the most optimistic colleague I have ever worked with,” Ellemann-Jensen noted.
Time for reflection
Ellemann-Jensen left politics over a year ago following an extended medical leave and a turbulent tenure as party leader. Since then, he has spent time with his family and reflected on his next steps. He shared that he had “drunk an absurd amount of coffee” with wise individuals to figure out what his future should hold.
“I want to work on something with a purpose,” he wrote, emphasizing that his new role allows him to contribute to a secure future and a better society.
Promises to be good
For Ellemann-Jensen, this role marks a return to a prominent platform where his political and personal values can be applied once again. He concluded his announcement with a promise:
“I will do everything to be a good colleague, a good leader, and a helpful resource for all members of Dansk Erhverv.”
