Gerhard Heiberg

International Scandinavian Cultural Award
1993 Awardee

Gerhard Heiberg of Lillehammer, Norway, is the first recipient of the Norsk Høstfest International Scandinavian Cultural Award which recognizes Scandinavians who have achieved world-wide recognition.

Born in Oslo in April 1939, Heiberg studied there and in Copenhagen where he earned a master of business administration degree. He also studied human relations in business and industry at California State University in 1964.

He worked in California for a time before beginning market research work in Oslo in 1964. Later he worked in marketing in France and Austria before becoming vice president of A.S. Norcem in 1972. Mr. Heiberg was named president of Norcem in 1973; the firm became Aker A.S. in 1987 and Mr. Heiberg became chairman in April 1989.

Currently serving on boards of many international firms, Gerhard Heiberg turned his attention to the 1994 Winter Olympics to be hosted by his hometown, Lillehammer, Norway. As CEO and President of the Lillehammer Olympics Organizing Committee, Mr. Heiberg has traveled the world promoting his city and the prestigious games, including two visits to Norsk Høstfest. His vision will change the face of Norway.

Gerhard Heiberg and his wife Cath have three children.