In this powerful episode of Beyond the Blend, we welcome Elisa Swanson-Parbäck, Business Development Director – Sustainable Lubricants at Perstorp Group.
From a diving instructor in Finland to the European Parliament in Brussels, Elisa’s journey blends sustainability, business acumen, and personal purpose. This conversation uncovers how curiosity, reflection, and community spirit have propelled her to the forefront of sustainable change in the lubricant industry.
Key Takeaways:
* Diving Deep (Literally and Professionally): Elisa’s early days in her family’s diving business taught her lessons in entrepreneurship, customer-centricity, and trust. Principles that still shape her leadership.
* Championing Sustainable Change: Elisa’s work today is focused on developing renewable, responsible solutions across the lubricant value chain and taking those insights to policymakers at the EU level.
* From Brussels to the Boardroom: Hear about Elisa’s role in the ATIEL & UEIL Joint Sustainability Committee and how storytelling, timing, and collaboration are critical for influencing regulation and driving awareness.
* Dyslexic Thinking as a Superpower: Elisa opens up about identifying with dyslexic thinking, how it fuels her creativity and strategic thinking, and why self-reflection is key to leading with authenticity.
* Creating Impact through Community: Whether in diving, public affairs, or corporate leadership, Elisa believes in the power of like-minded people driving shared missions—and how progress (not perfection) is what keeps her going.
* A Purpose-Driven Career: Elisa challenges listeners to ask “Am I the right person in the right place? ”a question that helped her realign her career around sustainability, value creation, and long-term vision.
Why Listen?
Elisa blends technical insight, behavioural science, and bold purpose into a conversation that is both inspiring and deeply practical. If you care about sustainability, want to lead with impact, or are figuring out how to align your work with your values, this episode is a must-listen.
Where to Connect:
* LinkedIn: Elisa Swanson-Parbäck
* Events: Find her at ELGI, Lubricant Expo, and UEIL technical meetings
* Company: Perstorp Group
Brought to you in partnership with the Lubricant Expo!
Join Lubricant Expo Europe from 16-18 September 2025 at Messe Düsseldorf, and help shape the future of lubrication together.
Lubricant Expo Europe is the must-attend annual event for professionals looking to discover or promote the latest advances in lubricant and lubrication technology. Whether you’re an engineer, executive, or industry professional, this free-to-attend exhibition and conference connects lubricant solution providers with end-user buyers and the entire chemical and equipment supply chain.
Bringing together the lubricant community and end-users from over 80 countries, Lubricant Expo Europe is a comprehensive showcase of all lubricant technologies, including finished lubricants, additives, process equipment and machinery, condition monitoring, automation systems, testing and analysis, data technologies, lubricant manufacturing equipment, end-user application systems and more.
Join Lubricant Expo Europe from 16-18 September 2025 at Messe Düsseldorf, and help shape the future of lubrication together.