Anna Carmo e Silva integrates strategy with communications at Scania
23 MARCH 2026
After more than two decades at Scania, Anna Carmo e Silva has taken on the role as Head of Strategy and Communications – a position that sits at the intersection of long-term direction, organisational alignment and clear communications – essential areas as the transport industry keeps changing.
In this kind of environment, transparency and clarity in leadership is essential: “With me, what you see is what you get. To be transparent – about what works and what doesn’t – is essential to build trust,” she says.
A career shaped by curiosity
Carmo e Silva joined Scania in 2002 after completing a MSc in Engineering at Chalmers University of Technology in Gothenburg. Her path into the automotive industry, however, came more by coincidence: “I grew up surrounded by music and books. At school I kept all doors open – humanities, science, everything. It was actually a teacher in high school who sparked my interest in technology.”
What attracted her to Scania was not just the products, but the company itself. “Scania had a reputation as a company with strong values and talented people. The combination of tech, global environment and people was incredibly appealing.”
Over the years she has held several leadership roles across commercial, product and strategic functions, something that has given her a great understanding of the company and our customers.
“Strategy is to set a direction. Communication is to ensure that everyone understands that direction and feel they are a part of that journey, both internal and external stakeholders.”
– Anna Carmo e Silva, Head of Strategy and Communications
The importance of breaking down silos
Looking back on the years at Scania, Carmo e Silva says one lesson stands out: “Whenever we struggle as an organisation, it is often because we start working in silos,” she says. “The moments we perform at our best are when we work together across functions towards a clear and shared objective.”
To create that shared direction is central to her new role. Strategy is not just about defining a plan. It is about ensuring that the entire organisation moves in the same direction. “You need clarity about where we are going and why. But you also need the structures and the collaboration that allow people to turn strategy into action.”
She believes that strong teams require accountability and a supportive environment. “The leaders who have inspired me most are those who combine a clear direction with humility and a commitment to create an arena where people can perform.”
This balance between clarity and empathy is also deeply rooted in Scania’s leadership philosophy. “The Scania Way provides a strong framework. It helps us balance direction, accountability and collaboration.”
Strategy, communication and execution
As Head of Strategy and Communications, Carmo e Silva brings together two areas that are increasingly interconnected. “Strategy is to set a direction. Communication is to ensure that everyone understands that direction and feel they are a part of that journey, both internal and external stakeholders. The exciting part is to bring those elements close. To set a clear path forward while we ensure we have the momentum and alignment needed to execute.”
To prepare Scania for the future
Looking ahead, Carmo e Silva sees her role as assisting the company to remain resilient in a transport landscape that constantly changes. “We need to make sure that Scania remains just as strong for the next generation as it is today.”
That means to stay close to customers, add technological strength to operational knowledge, and adapt quickly to change. “The transport industry is transforming. For future success we must continue to combine our technical capabilities with strong customer focus, and at the same time be fast, flexible and efficient.”
Finding inspiration beyond work
Outside work, Carmo e Silva finds balance in a range of interests. Music has been a lifelong passion: she has played several instruments and enjoys going to concerts. Like most of us, she likes to spend time with family and friends. Yoga, and some gardening also adds to the mix.
Her motivation, however, ultimately comes from seeing how Scania’s products make a difference in the world. “When you travel and see how our vehicles are used, especially in areas like sustainable fuels or public transport, you realise the impact our work has. That sense of purpose is a powerful driver.”
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