Wednesday, February 12, 2025
Metsäliitto Cooperative has announced the appointment of Jussi Vanhanen as its new CEO. He will also serve as the President and CEO of Metsä Group starting on July 1, 2025. Until then, current President and CEO Ilkka Hämälä will remain in his role until June 30, 2025, before transitioning to special duties until his retirement on October 23, 2025.
Vanhanen, who has served as a member of Metsäliitto Cooperative’s Board of Directors since 2022, brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the role. His extensive background in international business and leadership is seen as a significant asset as he prepares to lead the company into its next phase of growth.
Jussi Linnaranta, Chairman of Metsäliitto Cooperative, emphasized Vanhanen’s leadership style, describing him as a values-driven executive with a strategic mindset. “Vanhanen understands the strengths of the cooperative ownership structure and is committed to further developing high-value-added products based on Finnish wood raw materials for the global market,” Linnaranta said.
In his statement, Vanhanen expressed his enthusiasm for the new role. “Metsä Group is a great company with a clear direction and dedicated team. I’m eager to collaborate with everyone to strengthen the company’s position in global markets,” he said.
Linnaranta also acknowledged Ilkka Hämälä’s legacy, recognizing his role in the company’s growth, particularly the significant investments under Hämälä’s leadership, such as the Kemi bioproduct mill and initiatives in regenerative forestry and resource efficiency.
The transition will be officially discussed at Metsä Group’s upcoming result publication on Thursday, February 6, 2025, where Vanhanen and Hämälä will address the media in Helsinki.
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Tags: CEO appointment, Finnish wood raw material, Global market, Ilkka Hämälä, Jussi Vanhanen, leadership, Metsä Group, Metsäliitto Cooperative, strategic leadership
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