Hen­rik Sornn-Friese

My research examines how innovation, structural change, and global disruptions shape business behavior and long-term strategic decisions. By linking historical context with contemporary challenges, I aim to understand how industries evolve - and how they can navigate periods of uncertainty and transformation. 

A central motivation in my work is to generate insights that support more resilient, sustainable, and forward-looking business strategies. Using international shipping and ports as rich empirical settings, I investigate broader questions about how firms adapt, how industries reorganize, and how global value chains respond to geopolitical, technological, and environmental pressures – that is, navigating polycrisis. 

I contribute to society by advancing knowledge that can guide sustainable transitions, inform policy debates, and strengthen decision-making in globally connected industries. My work also explores the circular economy, green fuels, and the role of regional innovation systems in shaping sustainable economic development. 

Beyond research, I am committed to academic citizenship, interdisciplinary collaboration, and supporting the next generation of scholars working on global industry transformation.