Per Agerman is known as an award-winning business journalist with nearly 30 years in the industry. Now, he has chosen to embark on a new role as part of Look Closer's research team. In this interview, he shares insights into his career transition and conveys his experiences in scrutinising entrepreneurs and businesses.

You've worked as an investigative journalist for many years – what drew you to Look Closer?
– I thrive when I have the opportunity to engage in extensive and complex investigations. Over the years, I've realized that many media outlets lack the ambition to truly understand the whole picture; instead, they seek simplified and quick angles. This made me contemplate other professional roles where I could make a meaningful impact. Given my background in reporting on and scrutinising companies in the Swedish business landscape for many years – ranging from major publicly traded corporations to cunning small-time swindlers – it felt natural to join an organization specialising in precisely this type of investigation.
What's your initial impression of Look Closer?
– I am impressed by my colleagues and Look Closer's meticulous methodologies. Rarely have I encountered an organization that so unpretentiously and efficiently extracts relevant information, whether it's a matter of checking a public record or delving deep into a nearly forgotten archive shelf. Everyone collaborates fantastically! Moreover, I appreciate the continuous refinement of tools. It's evident that Look Closer has been at this for a while; some of the knowledge within the organization would make my former colleagues green with envy. Nevertheless, there's also an ambition to constantly learn new things and challenge old working methods.
Do you have a specific focus area in your new role?
– I work broadly on both small and large projects as part of the Swedish research team, but I also conduct what's known as "discreet inquiries," which are background interviews that complement open-source research. Additionally, I don't shy away from conducting analyses and offering advice based on more complex investigations. Those who follow Look Closer on their website or LinkedIn will also see that I contribute periodic interviews with interesting and relevant personalities.
How does your work today differ from your work as a journalist?
– One significant difference is that Look Closer doesn't seek to uncover stories independently but operates exclusively on behalf of clients with legitimate investigative interests. Naturally, our work must remain confidential, but the same applies to journalists before publication, so I'm accustomed to working under strict confidentiality.
- Another significant difference is Look Closer's impartial approach. Unlike traditional journalism, where angles and the gravity of irregularities often dictate success, Look Closer's mission is to assemble an unbiased, comprehensive picture based solely on available facts. For clients, the objective is informed decision-making, regardless of the investigation's outcome.
Several foreign private intelligence firms have faced harsh criticism for their methods in recent years, such as the use of "pretexting" to deceive counterparts and obtain information. How do you view this phenomenon?
– It's undoubtedly problematic, especially if these methods are employed with the intent to stifle free and open debate or media reporting. Look Closer has raised the alarm about this and highlighted the risks of companies potentially losing confidential and business-critical information through such means. That's why it feels reassuring that we have an explicit policy of not concealing our identity or the reasons for initiating contact when conducting discreet inquiries. My personal experience also suggests that being as open and transparent as possible is often effective in obtaining accurate information.
What are your insights after scrutinising high-level companies and business leaders for many years?
– It is my firm belief that serious enterprises and entrepreneurs benefit from rigorous examination and transparency in the long run. This holds particularly true when businesses act on behalf of numerous shareholders or manage pension funds. In this regard, organisations like Look Closer play a vital role in contributing to societal value by facilitating the positive development of various aspects of the business world.
As Per Agerman embarks on this new chapter in his career, it is clear that his dedication to uncovering the truth and shedding light on the inner workings of corporations remains unwavering. In an era where transparency and accountability in business are paramount, his expertise and insights are more relevant than ever.
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