What do you do at Metsä Group?
I am a development manager at Metsä Fibre. My job is to find new applications for wood pulp fibres. I get to work with professionals from different fields and the work is very varied.
What kind of career path have you had?
I have studied chemical engineering, that is, I have graduated as a Master of Science. In addition to this, I also have a PhD in Bioproduct Technology. Previously, I worked in business management consulting, and now for the last four years I have been in business development.
What is the best thing about your job?
The first thing I would like to say is people. The best thing is also to be able to solve the great challenges of the future that affect the whole world. In addition, it is great to be able to think about new uses of high added value for our northern raw material.
What do you consider important in Metsä Group/what do you value in Metsä Group?
I feel that the forest industry plays a really important role in Finland – both as an employer and as a maintainer of biodiversity. We have invested in sustainable forest management, and through our ownership base, investments and jobs, we are a strong part of Finnish society. Metsä Group does things long-term, and even in challenging times, there is far-reaching and forward-looking thinking.
How would you describe our team spirit?
In my experience, Metsä has a positive working atmosphere and a “can-do” mentality. Colleagues are valued and help is easily available. It is nice to come to work when you know that you can take projects forward together with competent and inspiring people.
What has been the most memorable project/job assignment so far?
There are so many memorable experiences. One of the greatest experiences was my first visit to the Äänekoski bioproduct mill. My guide was now my retired colleague Ari Poukka, who not only managed the mill processes like his own pockets, but was also able to tell about them in an extremely interesting way. The greatness of mill production dawned on me on that trip in a whole new way.
Why apply for a job in the forest sector?
There is still a lot of untapped potential in our raw material. That is why I think that although the forest sector is an important sector at the moment, it is also an area of the future. Our Finnish roots can make an impact globally.