Norway’s central bank opened applications for head of the country’s $1.8 trillion sovereign wealth fund with incumbent Nicolai Tangen seen as likely to be reappointed.
Tangen, 58, who is nearing the end of his first five-year term, has said that he intends to reapply for the position. His general popularity at home is likely to help him keep the job.
The posting on Norges Bank’s website begins a process that will see a panel at the central bank assess and interview candidates with an aim to fill the position by September. Applications will be accepted through Feb. 16.
During his tenure, Tangen has encouraged his traders to think more contrarian and take advantage of the long-term nature of the fund. He has also sought to raise awareness about the fund through a communications blitz that includes hosting a regular podcast.
Still, his first term has not been without controversy. The executive followed up an April podcast interview with Elon Musk by inviting him to attend the fund’s annual seminar in 2025, an offer that drew criticism from some Norwegian policymakers. He also sparred with local reporters who published stories about a closed-door event with hedge fund billionaire Ole Andreas Halvorsen.