In Memoriam: Bengt B:son Sjögren
We are saddened to share the news of the passing of Bengt B:son Sjögren, who in addition to being one of our longest active members, served as Chair of the AmCham Board of Directors from 2007 – 2010, and Vice Chair from 2010 – 2013. Following this time, Bengt continued to serve on the Board of Directors and as a mentor, actively providing advice and direction for the Communications Working Committee, as well as various initiatives such as our Almedalen platform, for the benefit of our organization in a myriad of ways.
Perceptive, visionary and characterized by an immense capacity for ideation, Bengt was a well-traveled global business developer and marketer, serial entrepreneur and speaker. He was the epitome of a hands-on leader, and an innovative, cohesive force in orchestrating initiatives, bridging cultural gaps and galvanizing teams to build businesses.
Born and raised in Sweden, Bengt’s upbringing led to a strong sense of civic life, an affinity for history, and an appreciation for the different cultures of the world. Educated in Stockholm, he trained at the Swedish Foreign Office in diplomacy before launching the Korean subsidiary of Tetra Pak in 1979.
Drawn to the practice of leadership, Bengt expanded the firm’s presence in the Asian marketplace before taking executive turns in Switzerland and the U.S. before joining Slack Barshinger to develop their strategic operation. With great entrepreneurial flair, he subsequently launched Interverbum Group in 2002.
Bengt was known across the AmCham Sweden network as an experienced, inspirational leader who excelled in developing talent. “People need to look at their failures from a growth perspective,” Bengt was quoted as saying, “Then they can learn, take responsibility and push forward.”
Always looking to the future, Bengt invested in his teams, catering to their strengths, and providing a constant source of stability during periods of growth and turbulence. Leveraging professional relationships by emphasizing human values was a hallmark of his leadership style.
A “Celebration of Life” to honor Bengt will be announced in Svenska Dagbladet in June, to take place following the summer. Donations in his name may be made to the Swedish American Museum in Chicago, Läkare Utan Gränser or Stadsmissionen.