Per Arne Karlsen possesses extensive experience in the energy and consulting sectors, currently serving as a Styremedlem at Norges forskningsråd since October 2018 and as a Special Adviser in Renewable Energy. Previous roles include Daglig leder at Enerviva AS, where significant leadership experience encompassed strategy, business development, and renewable energy solutions. As Regionleder Energi at Sweco Norge AS, Per Arne led a team of 100 focused on hydropower and environmental technology. Held positions such as Utviklingsdirektør at Rambøll Energi, overseeing strategic and business development, and Director of Business Development at Akershus Energi, managing initiatives in renewable energy. Earlier career included a role as Sr. Manager at Price Waterhouse Coopers. Educational qualifications include an MBA from Heriot-Watt University and a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from BI Norwegian Business School, with further executive education in management and project management.