BRIGHT appoints Thor Linge as Chief Executive Officer
Experienced Nordic business leader to drive BRIGHT's next phase of commercial growth.
Oslo, 5 November 2026
BRIGHT Products AS, a developer and supplier of portable solar lamps for humanitarian and emergency preparedness markets, has appointed Thor Linge as Chief Executive Officer (CEO). He started on 3 November 2026 and takes over from Karianne Ellekrans, who has led the company as interim CEO for the past two years.
The appointment comes as BRIGHT strengthens its focus on commercial growth, including expanding its work with UN agencies and other humanitarian partners.
Thor has more than 25 years of leadership experience in Nordic B2B and B2C businesses, with a consistent record of commercial growth and turnarounds. Most recently, as Managing Director of Karo Healthcare Norway, he delivered 74% organic sales and EBIT growth, and the Norwegian business received the group's Global Growth Award three years in a row.
Earlier, as Managing Director of Rimi, he led a major turnaround that returned the company to strong profitability ahead of plan. He has also held senior commercial and supply chain roles as ICA and Walgreens Boots Alliance, and he currently works as partner in an executive consultancy company as an advisor to boards and management teams.
"Thor combines strong commercial drive with deep operational experience, which is exactly what BRIGHT needs at this stage. We are delighted to welcome him, and I want to thank Karianne for steering the company with great commitment over the past two years," says Hilde Sjo Tavares, Chair of the Board, BRIGHT.
"BRIGHT combines a product that matters with real commercial potential. My focus will be on growth — reaching more humanitarian partners and communities, and building a company that delivers for the long term," says Thor Linge, CEO, BRIGHT.
The Board of Directors thanks Karianne for her leadership of BRIGHT. She remains with the company until the end of the year and is working closely with Thor on the handover.
The appointment does not affect how customers and partners work with BRIGHT. BRIGHT's products, delivery commitments and quality standards carry on, and the usual BRIGHT contacts remain the first port of call.
About BRIGHT
BRIGHT Products AS is a Norwegian company specialising in developing and supplying solar-powered lamps and energy solutions for humanitarian aid and emergency preparedness. Over 4.5 million BRIGHT solar products have been delivered to 66 countries around the world, supporting leading humanitarian agencies and off-grid communities.
Press and media contacts
Hilde Sjo Tavares, Chair of the Board, BRIGHT Products AS. hilde@bright-products.com
Thor Linge, CEO, BRIGHT Products AS. thor@bright-products.com