Thomas Skovgaard
Thomas is one of LEAD’s experts in implementation, organizational development, as well as research and knowledge leadership.
In his work with clients and partners, Thomas draws on nearly 20 years of experience as a leader and senior manager in public sector organizations, consulting firms, and the NGO sector.
He has particular expertise as a leader within research institutions – primarily in the university sector – where he works daily to deliver scientific breakthroughs that create broad societal value locally, nationally, and internationally.
In recent years, Thomas has led the Active Living Research group at the University of Southern Denmark (SDU), currently comprising over 30 scientific and academic staff at all career levels. He also had a leadership role at the Center for Primary School Research, also based at SDU.
Above all, Thomas is passionate about contributing to the development of high-performing organizations that deliver excellent, sustainable results. This involves fostering a “we-culture” where ambitious and resilient cross-organizational collaboration is the norm. Leadership in this context carries an enhanced responsibility to engage openly with the difficult issues, the challenges, and the inspirations that drive commitment.
Thomas researches, teaches, and consults on topics such as implementation, culture and change management, program and portfolio management, and organizational development.
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Selected Publications
de Jong, J., & Skovgaard, T. (2022). The need for T-shaped sport, physical activity, and health professionals. I K. Petry, & J. de Jong (red.), Education in Sport and Physical Activity: Future Directions and Global Perspectives (1. udg.). Routledge. https://www.routledge.com/Education-in-Sport-and-Physical-Activity-Future-Directions-and-Global-Perspectives/Petry-Jong/p/book/9780367433604
Præst, C. B., & Skovgaard, T. (2022). Physical Activity for Children and Youth with Physical Disabilities: A Case Study on Implementation in the Municipality Setting. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 19(10), [5791]. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19105791
Klein-Wengel, T. T., Nielsen, J. V., Smedegaard, S., & Skovgaard, T. (2021). The role of local leaders in the implementation of adult-initiated motor skill development and physical activity in preschool—a case study. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 18(24), [13119]. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph182413119
Skovgaard, T., & Johansen, D. L. N. (2020). School-based physical activity and the implementation paradox. Advances in Physical Education, 10(4), 492-506. https://doi.org/10.4236/ape.2020.104038
Nielsen, J. V., Bredahl, T. V. G., Klakk, H., Bugge, A., & Skovgaard, T. (2019). Implementation of a successful long-term school based physical education intervention: exploring provider and programme characteristics. Evaluation and Program Planning, 76, [101674]. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.evalprogplan.2019.101674
Professional Experience
Research Director, Active Living, University of Southern Denmark (SDU) (2021–present)
Member of the Center Leadership Team, Center for Primary School Research, University of Southern Denmark (SDU) (2020–present)
Center Director, Research and Implementation Center for Sport, Movement, and Learning, University of Southern Denmark (SDU) (2014–2021)
Head of Studies, Sports Science and Health, University of Southern Denmark (SDU) (2009–2014)
Chief Consultant, Rambøll Management Consulting (2008–2009)
Regional Director, Danish Cancer Society (2006–2008)
Head of Studies, Public Health Science, University of Southern Denmark (SDU) (2004–2006)
Specialization
Thomas has a broad range of experience and a curious mindset, with particular focus on:
Implementation
University and research leadership
Organizational development
Knowledge management