Hanne Finnestrand

Hanne Finnestrand is an Associate Professor at the Department of Industrial Economics and Technology Management, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU). She holds a PhD in Organizational Development and Action Research (2011) and a Master’s in Organizational Sociology (2003). Prior to NTNU, she worked as a researcher and senior researcher at SINTEF Technology and Society (2003-2016).

Her research focuses on action research, sociotechnical systems theory (STS), and organizational design, with an emphasis on workplace democracy and learning organizations. She serves as Editor-in-Chief of Systemic Practice and Action Research (Springer) and contributes to peer-reviewed journals like Information Systems Journal and European Journal of Workplace Innovation.

Key projects include establishing the STS Competence Network (2020) and collaborations with international networks like the Global Network for SMARt Organization Design. She has led or co-managed over 20 projects since 2003, addressing topics like lean management, public sector innovation, and workforce inclusion.

Her recent work explores AI’s impact on organizational design, sustainable workplace practices in the environmental sector, and institutional complexity in Nordic work models. She has authored/co-authored over 50 publications, including peer-reviewed articles and book chapters on action research methodologies and organizational development.

Professional affiliations include board memberships with Scandinavian Academy of Industrial Engineering and Management, LOS Norway, and Lean Forum Norway. Her research integrates theoretical frameworks with practical applications in diverse industries, emphasizing participatory approaches and cross-sector collaboration.