From Silicon Valley to Oslo: Melissa Mills on Career Growth and Family Life
Melissa Mills has experienced career growth while at the same time enjoying Oslo’s emphasis on work-life balance. As a VP at Ardoq, she thrives in a culture that values both professional fulfillment and personal well-being.
Melissa Mills grew up surrounded by the picturesque rural landscapes of Washington State, which isn’t too different from where she calls home now: Oslo.
“I love the forest. It’s right outside my driveway. I can go for a run before work and be completely surrounded by nature. What’s special about Oslo is that, within the same 60 minutes, I can hop on the subway and head straight into the city center.”
According to Mills, Oslo’s strongest selling point is its work-life balance. However, she emphasizes that “life” alone isn’t enough; it needs a fulfilling work aspect as well. “Fortunately, Oslo offers both,” Mills says.
Melissa's company, Ardoq, is looking for more talented people.
Career Advancement
Mills has been living in Oslo since 2020 and is now VP of Product at Ardoq, a tech company in B2B Software known for giving people the map to navigate complicated change in large enterprises through its platform.
Before moving to Norway, Mills spent eight years at Google Headquarters “The Googleplex” in Mountain View and at a leading AI startup in Los Angeles, where she built a strong foundation in the tech industry. It’s that experience that positioned her for success when she relocated to Oslo.
“My time at Google and the AI startup gave me the skills and competitive edge needed to thrive in leadership roles here. Norway has provided me with new opportunities to expand my career into different industries and responsibilities, including leadership. I was even promoted while on maternity leave—something I wouldn’t have experienced in the U.S.”, Mills says.
She credits her ability to further her career in Norway to a combination of factors.
“Equality here enables me to focus on my career without being expected to take on the majority of household and family responsibilities, which is more common in the U.S. Plus, my competitive background from working in fast-paced environments like Google and startups has helped me seize opportunities in the Norwegian market.”
"How Is That Possible?"
Since becoming a mother, Melissa Mills' priorities have shifted, and she appreciates how Oslo—and Norway as a whole—values both work and life.
“One of the biggest advantages here is that it’s completely normal to prioritize things outside of work, like family. Both parents share responsibilities, like picking up their kids from kindergarten.”
Mills is also impressed by the gender equality in Norway. “It’s expected that men and women share responsibilities equally. When I tell my American friends that half the parents picking up kids are dads, they’re shocked and ask, ‘How is that possible?’” she says jokingly.
This equality gives Mills a major advantage. “Sometimes, I need to work late, and having a husband who can pick up the kids—and that this is completely normal—allows me to excel in my career.”
5 reasons to live and work in Oslo
- Find your work-life balance in a city grounded in trust and flexibility
- Live in a compact city while enjoying easy access to
fjords, forests, and mountains! - Be part of an innovative and inclusive work culture where tech, startups, and sustainability opportunities abound.
- Contribute to a sustainable future, working and living in a city committed to reducing its environmental footprint.
- Enjoy a high quality of life and safety with top-tier public services, healthcare, and a safe environment for you and your family.
Sees great potential in Oslo's tech-scene
Melissa Mills believes she moved to Oslo at the perfect time. “I love being here. I’m at a point where I’ve settled a bit more, and it feels right.”
She acknowledges that, compared to the U.S., Norway has fewer large companies and work opportunities. “The startup scene in the U.S. is also very different. Here, other values are considered important beyond just working, and I think that’s a great combination.”
Having been deeply involved in innovation and startups, Mills sees great potential in Oslo’s future as a tech hub for international talent.
“Since I first arrived, there’s been so much happening in the startup and tech space. There’s plenty of talent and many exciting companies.”
“I’m really excited to see how the city continues to grow and spark new opportunities for both locals and newcomers.”
Melissa's company, Ardoq, is looking for more talented people.
