Let’s give Mikkel Østergaard a warm welcome 🤝
Mikkel has joined Manufactory as a new research assistant. Read more about his background, interests and experience here.
A short intro: who are you and what is your professional background?
My name is Mikkel Østergaard, and I have recently completed my Master’s degree in Technology Based Business Development at Aarhus University, following a Bachelor’s degree in Global Management and Manufacturing. Throughout my studies and professional roles at LINAK A/S, I have worked extensively with process optimisation, quality management, lean implementation, sourcing strategy, KPI management, global management system development as well as digital transformation strategies and technology implementation.
I am particularly motivated by working at the intersection of technology, operations and strategic business development, where structured analysis and data can be translated into tangible performance improvements.
What is your area of work?
At Manufactory, I work as a research assistant, junior research executive and project lead within production optimisation and technology integration in manufacturing environments. My role involves leading and coordinating industrial development projects, driving initiatives from analysis and validation to implementation. I focus on identifying improvement potential, structuring development initiatives and ensuring that new technologies are implemented in a way that strengthens operational performance and long-term competitiveness. I am especially interested in how digitalisation and data-driven decision-making can enhance governance, efficiency and transparency in production systems.
Why did you choose to work at the Department of Business Development and Technology?
I chose BTECH and Manufactory because of the strong link between research and real industrial challenges. The opportunity to work closely with companies while applying research-based knowledge in practice aligns perfectly with my professional domain and interests. I am motivated by environments where analytical rigour meets practical execution and where measurable impact is a central goal.
Would you like to share a bit about yourself, your family and your hobbies?
Outside of work, I enjoy staying active and spending time with friends and family.
Creativity also plays a big role in my life as I am a music producer and have worked with internationally charting artists such as NBA YoungBoy, Kevin Gates and Rylo Rodriguez. In addition, I run an Instagram profile with 30k followers focused on office life content, where I share relatable office humour and everyday situations from working life.