Magnus Larsson has a long background as an entrepreneur, executive, and strategist. Today he is Chairman of the Board at Auxesis Pharma, contributing his experience in leading and developing companies. Since the late 1970s, Magnus has held senior roles in the IT industry, founded his own businesses, and worked in both listed and private companies. He has also held several positions of trust within the Confederation of Swedish Enterprise.
“I’ve always been passionate about small and mid-sized companies that start somewhere — especially when there are great people behind them and an interesting market.”
The start of an entrepreneurial life
When Magnus started his first company, computers were still mostly used by large enterprises — but interest in the technology grew rapidly.
“The turning point came when we invited an expert to Sweden who showed how the personal computer and spreadsheet software could change the way people work. He predicted they would soon be standard tools in offices worldwide. It sounded unthinkable at the time — people were still sending out lists on paper.”
That realization made Magnus commit wholeheartedly to IT — a field he has worked in for most of his professional life.
“I’ve had many roles over the years, but what mattered most was when you felt you contributed to something bigger.”
Magnus also served as Chairman of Junior Achievement (Ung Företagsamhet) for many years.
“That’s where it starts — when young people learn to believe in themselves while being trained to collaborate, plan, and think like entrepreneurs. It’s incredibly fun,” says Magnus.
It all comes down to people
For Magnus, it is the people behind a company who determine whether it succeeds.
“Financing, timing, and product matter — but the right people matter most.”
His view of leadership is rooted in the same conviction.
“Being inclusive is extremely important — and listening. And being clear. Those three things.”
As Chairman at Auxesis, Magnus sees the same curiosity and drive that once drew him to entrepreneurship.
“If you’re convinced your product or service can improve the world and you enjoy what you’re doing — then you just go for it.”
Today, his engagement is about helping others find that spark.
“If the people running the company succeed and feel good, then the company will do well too.”
With his experience and belief in people’s capacity, he wants to contribute to Auxesis Pharma’s continued development — from innovative idea to an established pharmaceutical player.
“In five years, I hope we’ve launched our first medicine — not only in the Nordics but internationally as well.”
Life outside the boardroom
Magnus describes the balance between work and leisure as something that comes in waves. These days, he prefers to focus on family, movement, and civic engagement.
“I have two generations of grandchildren — some who have just started school and some who are entering their teens. It’s incredibly rewarding.”
After almost five decades as an executive, entrepreneur, and mentor, the driving force remains the same: being part of building something that makes a difference — for people and for society.