What if you could earn a six-figure salary and live the life of your dreams? For Kim Povlsen, president and CEO of Universal Robots, that dream is a reality. In an inspiring chat with Fortune, Kim shares insights into his life, career, and the exciting future of robotics.
The Rise of Universal Robots
Founded in 2005, Universal Robots has emerged as a leader in the robotics field, selling collaborative robots—affectionately called “cobots.” Since selling its first robot arm in 2008, the company has sold around 90,000 units worldwide. As Kim, now 42, explains, their mission is to make automation accessible to everyone.
A Vision for the Future
Kim emphasizes that robots are not here to replace humans but to work alongside them. “We’re on a mission to bring automation to anyone, anywhere,” he states. Under his leadership, Universal Robots has achieved remarkable milestones, including opening its 100th training center and partnering with tech giants like Nvidia and Siemens.
A Personal Touch in Leadership
Kim’s journey is marked by rapid growth. After graduating as a robotics engineer, he climbed the corporate ladder to become Vice President at Schneider Electric before taking the helm at Universal Robots. Despite his success, he values personal connections and hands-on experiences in his leadership style.
Coffee as a Ritual
Kim’s daily coffee routine is more than just a caffeine fix; it’s a way to connect with colleagues. At Universal Robots, he often stops by the in-house coffee stations, engaging in conversations that foster collaboration and innovation. At home, he enjoys making espresso with his prized La Marzocco machine, which he imported from Italy.
Family Life and Work Balance
Balancing work and family is crucial for Kim. His wife, a self-employed yoga instructor, has the flexibility to care for their two children, aged 10 and 12. They live in a cozy suburb near Aarhus, Denmark, where they enjoy the tranquility of nature.
The Commute and Learning
Kim typically commutes to Universal Robots’ headquarters in Odense three times a week. During the hour-and-a-half drive, he listens to audiobooks, often business-related, to stay inspired and informed. One of his favorites is “Build” by Tony Fadell, which helps him think creatively about product development.
A Practical Approach to Living
Grocery Shopping and Home Cooking
Unlike many CEOs, Kim enjoys grocery shopping at local stores, valuing the personal touch. He also subscribes to a “Customer-Farmer” program, allowing his family to pick fresh produce from local farms. While he dines out with clients twice a week, he prefers cooking at home, often whipping up pizzas and burgers for family dinners.
Fashion Choices
Kim believes in consistency when it comes to style. All his suits come from the same tailor, while his shirts are from OLYMP. He favors comfortable yet stylish pants from the Danish company Shaping New Tomorrow.
Embracing Technology and Wellness
As a tech-savvy CEO, Kim tracks his health with an Oura ring, which monitors sleep and exercise. He also prioritizes family time and enjoys physical activities like padel tennis, although he finds running to be more mentally stimulating than relaxing.
Travel Adventures
One of Kim’s most memorable experiences was a family trip to Sri Lanka, where they explored the jungle and encountered wildlife. Despite his preference for familiar destinations like Italy, he embraces his wife’s adventurous spirit, leading to unforgettable journeys.
The Future of Robotics
With Universal Robots paving the way for the future of automation, Kim is focused on continuous improvement and innovation. He believes that investing in personal growth, education, and travel is key to success.
As he puts it, “Investing in things that allow you to learn and grow as a person will pay off in the long run.”
Conclusion: A Visionary Leader
Kim Povlsen exemplifies the balance of ambition and approachability, demonstrating that success in the tech industry doesn’t have to come at the expense of personal connections and family values. As Universal Robots continues to thrive, Kim’s commitment to collaboration and innovation is sure to inspire the next generation of leaders.
I am Aparna Sahu
Investment Specialist and Financial Writer
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