STRONG EMOTIONS AS PRESIDENT IS RE-ELECTED

While holding back the tears, the President of Finansforbundet (Financial Services Union Denmark), Kent Petersen, thanked everyone for his re-election at the National Congress today, on Wednesday 30 September. There were no other candidates, so the election was not surprising, but the vice-president’s motivation for re-election provoked strong emotions. The two vice-presidents also faced an uncontested election.

“I could speak of Kent's dynamic personality and his fantastic capacity to work. However, I want to talk of his vulnerability and the limitations it implies. Because it reflects our working life and that of many of our members.”

As Vice-President, Michael Budolfsen motivated the election of Kent Petersen by emphasising the president’s courage to step forward and expose his own vulnerability. One and a half years ago, Kent Petersen was sick for three months with stress, and he has been open about what he went through and how he decided to reorganise his work routines to avoid a repeat. He also sought help from his presidency colleagues, among others.

“It takes a strong person to be weak once in a while,” stated Michael Budolfsen, concluding that Kent Petersen achieves results and is a ‘magnificent President of Finansforbundet”.

Those present at the digital National Congress – Executive Committee members and a small group of employees from Finansforbundet’s secretariat – gave a standing ovation for the President.

Immediately thereafter, he had to motivate the re-election of both vice-presidents, and he was so moved that he had to collect himself a bit before he could start.

Kent Petersen said of Michael Budolfsen that he is very gifted, always well-prepared and has great overview that has taken Finansforbundet's international level to new heights – Michael Budolfsen is President of both UNI Europa Finance and NFU, Nordic Financial Unions.

Steen Lund Olsen is the newest member of the trio, and he has only held the position for three years.

“Today, he also holds the presidency of FTFa, where he uses his well-developed diplomatic abilities. He has also spearheaded the big projects involving digitalisation and branding, which he handled excellently.”

Therefore, Kent Petersen was happy to see that both were re-elected:

“I am incredibly happy about those two vice-presidents. Each have their own set of competences, and together we are a great team.”