Erik Gillberg

S-series lorries An example of the modulised S-series: Sisu SM 300 fire engine. Model SM is with a high forward control cabin. In 1977 SAT started a project for modernising of lorries. The new range, S-series, was launched at the beginning of the 1980s. The first model was SK 150 which entered the market in 1980. A significant feature was modulised cabin that enabled use of the same structure in both conventional and forward control models with minor changes. Despite being a small producer, Sisu could offer a very large selection of lorries for various purposes because of highly modulised construction. The S-series was received well in the market and remained technically competitive over the whole decade.

Markets and facilities The company name was changed Oy Sisu-Auto Ab in 1981. In the domestic market Sisu was the leading make among the heaviest vehicles, such as earthmoving, road maintenance and logging trucks. Share of exports reached 23% at its best. The major export articles were terminal tractors, in which Sisu-Auto became the leader in European market, and military vehicles, XA-180 in particular. Terrain capability was one of the core competences of the company. The assembly plants were located in Helsinki, Karis and Hämeenlinna. The company opened a new facility in Mäntyharju for plastic component production

End of Gillberg's era The state, which was the main owner of Sisu-Auto, was not satisfied with Gillberg's work because the renewal of the model range consumed quickly the savings which were reached before. Gillberg was removed from the office at the end of 1983 and replaced by Jorma S. Jerkku, who immediately started a heavy reorganisation programme.

Positions of trust After Sisu-Auto Gillberg worked as board member for Nescor Partners which was a company that offered the know-how of senior managers for the younger generation. Gillberg wrote the 20-year history book of the company. He had positions of trust in business and industry organisations and insurance and banking companies.

Political career Gillberg was in Espoo municipality council between 1961 and 1968 as a National Coalition Party member. Education was one of the main areas of his interest.

Family Gillberg was married in 1950 with Aila Annikki née Viljanen (born 1929). The couple had three daughters and one boy born between 1951 and 1962.