Meet the People of Axelent - Jonas Stillman, Managing Director Japan

Jonas Stillman has been part of Axelent for two and a half years and today leads the team in Japan. With a strong passion for people, cultural understanding and continuous improvement, he works to build an environment where individuals feel empowered to grow, both personally and together as a team. His experience in both Sweden and Japan has given him a unique perspective on leadership, collaboration and what it means to drive change across very different cultures.

What motivates you personally as a leader?

My passion lies in people and change. I’m motivated by inspiring and encouraging others to take a chance, to be brave, take ownership, and believe in their ability to succeed.

As a leader, I want to create an environment built on trust, freedom, and responsibility, where everyone can drive progress and collaborate as both individuals and as a team. Growth happens when people are supported and inspired to take initiative and share knowledge openly. Seeing someone take that step, try something new, and make it work is what truly drives me.

“Growth happens when people feel supported, inspired and brave enough to take initiative.”

Jonas Stillman, Managing Director of Axelent Japan

What’s the difference between working in Sweden compared to the Japan?

Besides the obvious differences such as language and the three alphabets' Kanji, Katakana, and Hiragana, there are also deep cultural contrasts. Attention to detail in Japan often means decisions take longer; for me, patience is still a work in progress.
There are similarities, but also clear differences. The key is to stay open-minded the way of thinking may be similar, but the approach and timing can differ.

In Japan, work culture centres around harmony 和 (Wa) and collective progress, while in Sweden it focuses more on balance between work, life, and independence. Both perspectives have great strengths, and these differences also serve as an opportunity, combining the best of both cultures helps us build on the growth we’ve started and move forward stronger together.

One big difference is the loyalty and dedication to work; the challenge is to remind people to rest. Introducing fika has been a great cultural exchange.

“Combining the best of both cultures helps us build on the growth we’ve started and move forward stronger together”.

Can you share a challenge that taught you something important?

Driving change in Japan means adapting to a slower decision-making pace, not a drawback, but a key to success and a reminder I need often. Everyone learns differently, and pushing too fast doesn’t build clarity, alignment, or confidence. When I listened more and gave ownership, engagement grew and results improved. Leadership isn’t about speed alone; it’s about moving forward together. And yes, just do it!

What do you want employees and customers to feel when they think of Axelent?

I want our team to feel proud, inclusive and motivated every day. Axelent’s purpose is clear: Safety First, making workplaces safer and better for everyone.
I aim for customers to recognise that our goal is to be their first choice by listening to their challenges and delivering lasting value.

What’s the best part of working at Axelent?

The strong foundation built by the management team in Sweden gives us global advantages and solid support to build on. Combined with close collaboration and shared goals, the “One Axelent” spirit makes it possible for everyone to grow, contribute, and succeed together.

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