The Lehmkuhl Lecture is an annual event at NHH in honour of the school's "founding father" Kristofer Lehmkuhl. This year's lecture is given by Torstein Hagen, Chairman and Founder of cruise line Viking Holdings.
Torstein Hagen is Chairman and Founder of cruise line Viking Holdings. The company was listed on the New York Stock Exchange on 1 May, in one of the largest IPOs of 2024 and is valued at approximately NOK 150 billion. This makes Viking the largest Norwegian-controlled shipping company in the world. Viking operates a global fleet of 80 river ships, 10 ocean-going cruise ships, 2 expedition ships, and has a significant newbuilding program.
Hagen grew up in Nittedal, before embarking on a long career, leading up to the founding of Viking in 1997. Like Kristofer Lehmkuhl, Torstein Hagen also led Det Bergenske Dampskibsselskab, which he saved from bankruptcy in the late 1970s. His career includes senior roles at McKinsey, Nedlloyd, Holland America Line, DNO, and Royal Viking Line.
During the Lehmkuhl Lecture, Hagen shares his insights into what it takes to build successful organizations and companies, and what drives him, even at the age of 81, to continually push boundaries and live by the motto "onwards."
Statsråd (Cabinet Minister) Kristofer Lehmkuhl (1855-1949) was an untiring champion for NHH. Perhaps more than anyone else he had the honour of ensuring that NHH became established, and right up to his death he followed the activity of the school with a never weakening interest. He is therefore rightfully called the 'Father of the school'.
NHH has honoured Kristofer Lehmkuhl's memory by holding an annual lecture in his name for students, academic staff and invited guests. The lecture is held as close as possible to Kristofer Lehmkuhl's birthday, 26 September.
A statue stands to the memory of Statsråd Lehmkuhl in front of the main building of the school, looking over the sea towards the harbour of Bergen where the sailing training vessel bearing his name is based.
LEHKMUHL LECTUREs 1958-2018
(the main part of the lectures were held in Norwegian)
Lehmkuhl Lectures from 2019 and onward on NHH's Youtube channel