Fredrik Nilsson, VP, Americas, Axis Communications: Best Advice

Today in the Best Advice Q&A series, we check in with Fredrik Nilsson, vice president, Americas, of Axis Communications. He shares the best advice he’s ever gotten, what he tells young security industry workers and who helps him understand the ever-changing sector even better.

Security Sales & Integration: What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?

Fredrik Nilsson: Think big. That was my father’s advice, something he lived by. He was a university professor, and later a management consultant, who came from humble beginnings in the Swedish countryside. He had a poster in his office that simply said, “Think Big,” and fittingly, his nickname was also “Big” because of both his height and his big personality.

That mindset always stayed with me: never limit what you can do and always dare to take on new challenges. It was especially helpful advice when I moved to the U.S. more than 20 years ago—not knowing anyone in the security industry and with Axis still a marginal player with a great invention, the IP camera.

Funny enough, “Think Big” is one of Axis’ core values.

SSI: What advice would you give to those looking to achieve success in the security industry?

Nilsson: Network. The security industry is incredibly welcoming, with a clear purpose and strong collaboration between technology and channel companies. Remember that face-to-face meetings build real relationships.

There are also many active and meaningful industry associations—so get involved! Join a local ASIS chapter. Become active in the Security Industry Association (SIA); it has many working committees and strongly supports both women in security as well as young professionals.

Go to trade shows and events. Build trust. Be curious and keep learning, there are many experienced professionals in this industry who are happy to share their knowledge. And network and be friendly with competitors; you can learn a lot by understanding how others approach similar challenges.

At the end of the day, we are all here for same purpose—to innovate for a smarter safer world.

SSI: If you could point to one person in the security industry and tell up-and-comers, “Make sure to listen to what they have to say,” whom would you pick and why? 

Nilsson: I’m fortunate to work in an industry full of truly talented people, which makes this a tough question—but one name does stand out for me: Dan Moceri, co-founder and executive chairman of Convergint Technologies.

Dan has been a business partner and friend for 20 years. The way he built a multi-billion-dollar global systems integration company based on a clear set of core values, known as the company’s “values and beliefs,” is nothing short of amazing.

What sets Dan apart is his unwavering dedication. More than 25 years after founding the company, he’s still deeply involved—building meaningful relationships with partners, end customers and his own team. He leads with humility, invests in people, and stays true to the culture he created. There’s a lot to learn just by watching how Dan operates: with passion, pride, and purpose.

Click here to check out the entire Best Advice series!

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