Professor Ann-Marie Wennberg Larkö is a pioneer in Swedish healthcare and truly embodies the fusion of visionary leadership and compassionate care.

As the former CEO of Sahlgrenska University Hospital, she led one of Northern Europe’s largest hospitals through a transformative era—embracing digitalization, AI, and innovation while never losing sight of the human experience in care.

In this conversation, we dive into what it means to lead with heart in complex systems, the role of research and innovation in shaping tomorrow’s healthcare, and why collaboration between academia, industry, and clinical practice is the only way forward.

We also explore the importance of leadership with the right expertise, courage, and vision to implement change—especially in a system under financial and academic pressure.

Ann-Marie shares insights from her broad experience as a professor, physician, policy advisor, and changemaker—highlighting why West Sweden is a region to watch on the global health stage.