By
Robin Karlestedt
Lene Juul Pedersen
We are happy to announce that Lene Juul has been appointed as Group Director.
Lene Juul Pedersen is the Group Director and Global Head of Compliance and Data Protection at Mercuri Urval (MU), where she leads compliance strategy and ensures high standards in data protection and operational excellence across the firm’s global executive search and talent advisory services. With more than 35 years of experience at MU—having joined the company in 1989—Lene blends deep institutional knowledge with a commitment to integrity and trust in client and candidate interactions. Based in Aarhus, Denmark, she is known for cultivating robust compliance practices that support trusted, ethical partnerships worldwide.
Now let us introduce Lene Juul.
Lene Juul
Global Head of Compliance & Data Protection & Group Director | MU Headquarters
I’m very proud and honoured to be appointed Group Director at MU! This acknowledgment affirms that the work I do and the dedication I’ve invested in MU is valued. The title as Group Director recognises contributions, achievements, and long-term commitment to our organisation. I strive to be a role model, representing MU and our values in the best possible way. As I join the Partner Track, I am excited about the opportunity to contribute even more to our shared vision and work alongside my exceptional colleagues to advance our goals and drive success.
I have worked with MU for quite many years, and I’ll say there are two main reasons why I have worked here as long as I have:
The first reason is the opportunity to grow and develop that I am offered in MU. I have worked in many different roles in MU, and through those different roles, I have grown and developed my skills in many different areas. If you perform well, and you wish to expand your role, MU offers that opportunity. You could say that in MU, we are offered Opportunities without Limits. I started in the Danish business unit working in various roles, and now I work in HQ as Global Head of Compliance & Data Protection, plus I’m heading our global Specialist team (admin support).
The second reason for my long tenure with MU is the extraordinary colleagues that I have. My colleagues are brilliant and talented, and they are kind, helpful and engaging. And on top of that, they are a blast to be with. In enjoy working alongside my colleagues; both in my office in Aarhus, Denmark, and throughout the global MU organisation. When we want to make things happen, we do it together. MU is truly a great place to work!
Leadership in Compliance and Strategic Oversight
Today, I hold two positions in MU: Global Head of Compliance & Data Protection and Global Head of MU’s Specialist Community.
In my role as Global Head of Compliance & Data Protection, I am responsible for defining, upholding and developing processes, methods and reporting for ensuring that company standards are well implemented and complied with globally in MU. And additionally, for ensuring compliance with data protection legislation in place. My team and I conduct compliance audits throughout MU’s organisation ensuring that all MU employees are constantly living up to the high standards that we as a company are aiming for.
In my role as Global Head of the Specialist Community, I aim to ensure that we have a highly professional global support function, which benefits clients, MU Experts and our whole MU Team. The MU Specialist team works across MU to provide specialist support and technology enabled services to our clients and our MU Experts working with them. Along with my brilliant Regional Specialist Team Leaders and the full team of Specialists, we aim to optimise specialist and administrative processes and support the strategic goals of MU clients and colleagues through a motivated and efficient team of MU Specialists.
Current Focus: Addressing the Implications of EU Pay Transparency Directive
When you work in the field of Compliance and Data Protection, there are always exciting things to address. This is an area that is always evolving and presents new challenges - like navigating the complexities of EU legislation, which is constantly shaping our operations.
Currently, we are working on ensuring that our organisation complies with the EU Pay Transparency Directive. This directive is designed to make sure that workers of all genders receive equal pay for work of equal value. It protects employees from direct and indirect discrimination caused by gender bias. The directive covers two main areas: pay transparency and pay equity.
Alongside my dedicated colleagues from Client Services and HR, we are actively preparing for the implementation of the EU Pay Transparency Directive. This collaborative effort is essential, as it ensures that all aspects of the organisation are aligned and that we can effectively address the requirements set forth by the directive.
By working together, we are not only preparing to meet compliance standards but also fostering a culture of transparency and equity within our organisation. This approach enhances our capability to implement the changes effectively and supports our commitment to upholding the highest standards of integrity in our operations.
Are you curious about a global career at MU, where you can make a genuine impact on your clients, grow alongside exceptional colleagues, and work in a dynamic, supportive culture? Read more at our a career at MU page and reach out to Robin Karlestedt, Global Talent Aquisition, to learn more!