In today’s press release, we announce Charlotte Odenberger as Viscaria’s new COO. She joins us with an extensive background from some of Sweden’s most advanced mining operations, where she has held senior roles across production, process engineering, sustainability and strategic development. With experience from Lundin Mining, Björkdalsgruvan, Zinkgruvan and most recently WSP, she now steps into Viscaria’s leadership team at a time when the project is entering an increasingly operational phase. In this interview, Charlotte shares what drew her to Viscaria and how she views the opportunities ahead. Welcome, Charlotte!
What made you decide to take on the role of COO at Viscaria?
What attracted me most was the combination of Viscaria’s high technical ambition, the strategic importance of the project and the fantastic culture that defines the company. For several years, it has been a dream of mine to be part of starting up a new mine in Sweden. Being involved in building a workplace with high technical and environmental performance, combined with exceptional business acumen and a strong company culture, is a truly unique opportunity and challenge—one I am very much looking forward to taking on.
Which experiences from your previous career will you bring with you?
I’ve had the privilege of working broadly across mining operations, from production, process engineering, dam safety and strategic planning to water treatment, environmental permitting and social responsibility. As Acting Managing Director of Zinkgruvan, I led a complex operation with overall responsibility for both day‑to‑day production and long‑term development. Most recently at WSP, I worked at a Nordic level with strategic development issues in the industry. The combination of operational and strategic experience is something I am really looking forward to contributing here at Viscaria.
How do you view Viscaria’s role in the transition to a more electrified and sustainable Europe?
Viscaria has the potential to become a key player in both Sweden and Europe. Copper is absolutely essential for electrification, and Viscaria plans to produce ore with a copper grade significantly higher than the global average. Being able to do this responsibly, using modern technology and with high standards for environmental and water management, makes the project unique from both a Swedish and European perspective.
What will your first areas of focus be when you step into the role?
My role is first and foremost about building strong structures ahead of production start and helping ensure the project is delivered on time and on budget. This includes everything from safety culture and work processes to technical systems and operational organisation. The role is about connecting strategy with day‑to‑day execution, and I look forward to working with the team to continue developing a working environment and culture where safety, transparency, professionalism and efficiency go hand in hand.
What are you most looking forward to?
There is a strong sense of pioneering spirit here—a feeling that we are building something for the future from the ground up. I look forward to working closely with colleagues across all functions and contributing to a culture where we learn from one another, elevate each other’s expertise and build a safe, sustainable and high‑performing organisation together. As in all modern mining, success is a team effort, and that is a spirit I am truly eager to strengthen.