The now 43-year-old from Norway was once one of our best relay skiers, finishing with four World Championship golds in relays. Now he is changing paths after 10 years in banking. He will help the wealthy as a wealth manager.

Eldar Rønning is embarking on a new career. After ten years at SpareBank 1 SMN, he is starting a new job as a wealth manager at Formue Norge AS, Trondheim branch.

“It was a bit bittersweet, but it sparked my competitive instinct. After ten years, at an age well over 40, I thought it was time to take on a new challenge and try something different,” Rønning told Trønder-Avisa.

“I wasn’t really in the mood for a job change, but then a very exciting opportunity came up. And I’m the kind of person who likes to move forward and learn something new.”

Will help the wealthy

His new job will involve advising those with significant wealth. This includes everything from capital management to transferring assets to the next generation.

“Many people who may have some wealth and assets have never considered managing their money. They have earned money by being good at what they do. Now it’s about putting that money to work – and there are many opportunities,” explains the former skier to TA.

He points out that especially in turbulent times, the need for good advice is greatest, and many wealthy individuals have a genuine need for information when markets are unpredictable.

“Many have not made money from their money. They have earned money by being skilled in their professions, and it’s our job to advise them and show them the opportunities that exist,” Rønning adds.

Impressive Career

“It’s a bit like jumping into the unknown again. Just like when I retired as a cross-country skier and started in banking,” he says.

He had been a skier his whole life, enjoying a successful career with Skogn IL as his club. His international breakthrough came in 2005 when he won three World Cup races. Ultimately, Eldar Rønning finished with seven individual World Cup victories and eight in relays/teams. In addition to four World Championship golds in relays, he also secured silver in the 15 km at Holmenkollen in 2011 behind Finnish skier Matti Heikkinen, as well as one World Championship bronze.

Rønning was a consistent medal contender at the Norwegian Championships, where he achieved seven golds, four silvers, and three bronzes.

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