For many companies, ESG reporting can feel like an exercise in documentation. For us, it has been an opportunity to understand where we stand today and where we should focus our efforts tomorrow. 

“The most important outcome isn’t the report itself. It’s the fact that we now have a much clearer picture of where we are and where we need to improve,” says Christian Aarup, Sales Director at RIVAL. 

From insights to action

We have always prioritised running a responsible business. Since RIVAL was founded more than 60 years ago, it has been part of our DNA. Whether it involves our customers, employees or suppliers.  

As Christian Aarup explains, the difference today is that we now have a clear overview of our data to guide future decisions: 

“We’ve spent the past year mapping our data. Now the real work begins as we use that knowledge to make informed decisions and drive meaningful improvements over time” 

LPM-RIVAL strengthens its role in the defence industry

Excitement on the way to the airport

It was a group of excited colleagues who rolled off in the bus on Wednesday after work, heading for the airport.

A few cozy days in the snow

This year, the trip went to the Austrian Alps in Obertauern. We were spoiled with what people in the alpine regions call Kaiserwetter – blue skies and bright sunshine.

A day of tours and inspiration

On Friday morning, there was a lively buzz in Svejstrup as our colleagues from Ølgod stopped by the factory for a visit.

The day offered a guided tour, great conversations, and plenty of inspiration for the shared journey ahead.

“You can tell people are passionate about what they do”

“You can really feel that the colleagues in Svejstrup are passionate about their work – and that they’re open, welcoming, and appreciative,” says Production Manager Flemming Tranberg from Ølgod.

He highlights the conversations with the new colleagues as one of the most valuable parts of the day:

“We had some great talks about everything from software and processes to ways of collaborating – and, most importantly, how we can use each other’s experience to build one strong organisation.”

Cycling race starting and finishing at FÆNGSLET in Horsens

It has become an annual tradition for LPM-RIVAL to take part in the mountain bike race in Horsens – and this year was no exception. A group of energetic colleagues showed up with big smiles, dressed in tight lycra, ready to race.

The race covers 50 kilometers, and everyone gave it their all – but, of course, with respect for ensuring that everyone could take part. After 2 hours and 46 minutes, the riders crossed the finish line wearing their stylish RIVAL cycling gear.

Full of determination and empathy

When you step into the office of Christian Aarup, CCO at LPM-RIVAL, you meet a leader with both energy and warmth. “I hate stagnation,” he says firmly. And that drive shapes his work every single day.

Behind the determined look lies a strong sense of empathy. His door is always open, and no one should hesitate to drop by for a talk.

But you won’t always find him at his desk. For Christian, it’s important to spend time on the shop floor, talking to colleagues at the machines and making sure everything runs smoothly. As he puts it:

“What motivates me the most is when the team works, when people grow, and when we create results together.”

And then there’s the courage. Christian doesn’t hesitate to challenge the status quo: “I like to challenge the thinking of ‘this is how we’ve always done it,’” he says. For him, that’s a prerequisite for progress and development.

Roots and drive

Outside of work, Christian lives on an old farm with horses and dogs, where family life plays a big role. He also enjoys hunting and spending time with those closest to him.

As a child, he had no clear career dreams: “I didn’t really know what I wanted to be. I just dreamed of working hard and earning money, and it’s a bit by chance that I ended up where I am today.”

Today, he feels fortunate to be part of LPM-RIVAL. First and foremost because of the people behind the machines, who are a daily source of inspiration – but also because he finds the role of CCO both professionally challenging and personally meaningful. “It’s the perfect match for me,” he says.

Leadership built on trust and direction

Christian describes his leadership style as involving and trust-based. In his view, the leader’s role is above all about setting direction:

“My responsibility as a leader is to provide a good football pitch, so the players have the best conditions to succeed – they are the ones who create the results.”

He emphasizes humility and understanding: “I like to put myself in other people’s shoes – to understand their world. What works, what doesn’t?”

At the same time, he sees it as a strength to be surrounded by skilled people: “I don’t believe in dictating; it rarely leads to anything good. I’m constantly learning from the people I work with.”