Leading through uncertainty – together with Max Villman

At Newsec, we believe that strong leadership doesn’t happen by chance. It’s empowered through our performance culture-program consisting of reflection, training, and the courage to look inward. That’s why we continue to invest time and resources into developing our managers — and why, during 2026, we’re partnering with leadership coach and former fighter pilot Max Villman to deliver a dedicated leadership program for a group of our Swedish managers.

“The questions we avoid are usually the ones that matter most,” says Max. “The tough conversations with yourself — about who you are, how you show up, and what responsibility you’re taking. That’s where real leadership starts.”

From cockpit to coaching

Max Villman has never really chosen the ordinary path. For nearly a decade, his workplace was a fighter jet cockpit in the Swedish Air Force. As a JAS 39 Gripen pilot, he operated in environments where preparation, trust, and split-second decisions were not just important — they were critical. Later, as both mission commander and flight instructor, leadership became the core of his role: guiding others, building strong teams, and taking responsibility when the stakes were high.

In the military, every mission is followed by reflection. What worked? What didn’t? What could we do better next time? And perhaps most importantly: who was I as a leader during that moment? That mindset has shaped everything Max has done since.

Today, his life looks different — but moves just as fast. He spends much of his weeks on the road, meeting teams, coaching leaders, and facilitating workshops across the country. Long days, early mornings, constant travel. Not because he must, but because he genuinely thrives on it. Seeing people grow, gain confidence, and realize their own potential is what drives him. Helping others find direction has become his mission.

Leadership begins with self-awareness

What Max often sees, especially among first-time managers, is how unprepared many feels. You’re promoted because you’re good at your job — and suddenly you’re expected to lead others to do it. The role changes overnight. The expectations multiply. And it can be both stressful and lonely.

Max’s approach begins not with quick fixes or management buzzwords, but with self-leadership. Understanding why situations unfold the way they do. Reflecting on your own behavior. Learning to communicate clearly. Setting expectations early instead of letting things slide. Taking responsibility not only for your team, but also for how you collaborate with your own manager and the wider business.

“Failure and mistakes will happen — they’re part of the process,” Max says. “Living a life far from ordinary comes with sacrifices and uncertainty. And sometimes my clear vision doesn’t match what others expect, which can lead to disappointment — but it’s all part of leading authentically.”

Because leadership, at its core, is relational. And clarity creates confidence — both for you and for the people around you.

Investing in our people

This philosophy aligns closely with how we at Newsec view leadership. Developing our people isn’t a side initiative — it’s a long-term investment. When our managers grow, their teams grow. When employees feel supported and engaged, we create better experiences for our clients. Strong leadership directly impacts our results.

Through the 2026 program with Max, our managers will work with practical tools, group exercises, reflection, and coaching between sessions. It’s hands-on, personal, and sometimes challenging — in the best possible way. The goal isn’t just to learn new theories, but to build real awareness and lasting change.

“We want every coworker at Newsec to have a toolkit that allows them to lead in a results-driven, fast-paced consultancy business, without losing sight of the very human aspect — because humans are our greatest resource,” says Emelie Sahlsten, Head of HR at Newsec Sweden.

A life guided by an inner compass

For Max, this work is deeply personal. He leads a life that is far from ordinary — yet it is his stable core, a grounded sense of purpose and self-awareness, that makes it possible. It’s this inner stability that allows him to guide others through uncertainty with confidence, empathy, and clarity, and to live a life that is unconventional, demanding, and deeply fulfilling.