Johan Bäcke

Advisor & Co-Founder, Former CEO & COO, Byredo

Johan Bäcke is an accomplished operator and convener, who has led successful start-ups and exits in several sectors and geographies, covering fine fragrance, technology, design, software and cosmetics. He set out as an independent advisor in 2015, focusing on serving early-stage companies with the most efficient ways to grow and scale a business. Bäcke manages an evolving portfolio of companies – primarily known for his investments in high potential start-ups.

Defined by integrity, applicable advice and personal availability, Bäcke’s advisory is informal, quiet and nimble. He empowers his clients to stay ahead of the competition, grow to become better leaders and make their organisations more effective.

An international businessman by training, and with more than twenty years of experience in venture capital, operational management and board activities, Bäcke has extraordinary global reach, with know-how and contacts from more than forty countries.

Bäcke has participated in six successful exits: Byredo, where he as co-founder served seven years as a CFO before the trade sale to Manzanita Capital. Second, AAC Clyde Space, where Bäcke was a board member until the IPO on Nasdaq First North, and the subsequent acquisition of Clyde Space. Third, Rotundus where he served as Chairman before the asset sale to a Chinese counterpart. Fourth, L:a Bruket, where Bäcke advised the founders and owners as a board member leading up to the partial sale to french Experienced Capital Partners. Five, Rolling Optics, where Bäcke was a board member until Rolling Optics was listed on Nasdaq First North through a reverse take-over of ICTA (formerly Intellecta) and then subsequently acquired by FCO, France. Six, Mestro, where Bäcke was a board member until Mestro was listed on Nasdaq First North through an IPO which then subsequently was acquired by EG and de-listed.

Why are you involved with The Fragrance Foundation UK?

Because I think it is the leading authority of fragrance and I think it has an important role to foster future fragrance companies. 

Why do you love Fragrance?

Because fragrance creates long-lasting impressions.

What is your Scent Memory?

With more than 20 years in the industry, I have learned to love many types of fragrance.  But what really gets to me is the freshness of the ocean, and scents that remind of the feeling at being close to the ocean.