The Board of NSD – Norwegian Centre for Research Data, CESSDA’s Norwegian service provider, offered Acting Director, Vigdis Kvalheim, the position of Director of NSD, which she accepted. Kvalheim took on the position on 1 May 2020 for a fixed term of three years.

“We are very pleased that Kvalheim has accepted the offer, and we are very satisfied with her performance as Acting Director since August 2018. She has both the expertise and the leadership skills that NSD needs, as well as the ability to set a clear course for NSD in a period of uncertainty for the organisation,” states NSD chairperson Petter Aasen.

NSD is a state-owned limited company under the jurisdiction of the Norwegian Ministry of Education and Research (Kunnskapsdepartementet). NSD’s organisational structure and affiliation are currently being assessed, as part of the Ministry’s ongoing work in reorganising the sector. NSD’s Board is currently awaiting a decision from the Ministry, expected in the autumn.

Kvalheim was previously appointed Acting Director of NSD on 15 August 2018 for a period of two years, when the previous Director, Bjørn Henrichsen, retired. At the Board meeting of 2 April 2020, NSD's Board decided to offer Kvalheim the position of Director for a fixed term of three years.

“This will give NSD a clear leadership with a strong mandate to confer the organisation stability, predictability and a clear direction for the future,” says Aasen.

“Vigdis’ expertise in data services and her commitment to the sector at an international level make her a diligent and persuasive leader. I am happy for NSD that there is continuation of leadership and look forward to continue the existing and fruitful cooperation with NSD as an important ally for CESSDA,” states Ron Dekker, Director of CESSDA.

More information:

• NSD news story (in Norwegian)
• Photo credits: Bjarne Øymyr, NSD.