How an international became VP at Novo Nordisk — and what she wants internationals to know

A Turkish-born executive at Novo Nordisk, Emel Mashaki Ceyhan, shares what it takes to succeed in Denmark’s workplace culture — and why embracing difference matters more than fitting in

Emel Mashaki Ceyhan, Corporate Project Vice President at Novo Nordisk.

Seljan Zeynalli

May 26, 2025

Originally from Türkiye, Emel Mashaki Ceyhan is now Corporate Project Vice President at Novo Nordisk. She joined the company in 2010, initially working out of its regional hub in Istanbul with responsibilities across more than 100 countries. After more than 20 years of both academic and international corporate experience, she relocated to Denmark in 2022, […]

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Emel Mashaki Ceyhan, Corporate Project Vice President at Novo Nordisk.

How an international became VP at Novo Nordisk — and what she wants internationals to know

A Turkish-born executive at Novo Nordisk, Emel Mashaki Ceyhan, shares what it takes to succeed in Denmark’s workplace culture — and why embracing difference matters more than fitting in

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International workers are at higher risk of being exploited and becoming victims of social dumping

Yesterday, the Danish Center for Social Science Research published a report stating that foreign workers in Danish companies face a 40% risk of being subjected to social dumping. 3F’s secretary: This is unacceptable.
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A new expat survey reveals a stark divide in employment outcomes: while 85% of internationals who moved for a specific job are now employed, only half of spouses who relocated with a partner have secured work

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