Kemijärvi Biorefinery Ltd is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Sampsa Lahtinen to its Board of Directors, effective January 1, 2026. Mr. Lahtinen brings more than three decades of international leadership experience in industrial technology, telecommunications, and sustainable business growth.

 

Mr. Lahtinen recently retired as Executive Vice President of Industrial Measurements at Vaisala Oyj, where he served from 2013 to 2024. Under his leadership, Vaisala’s industrial business achieved remarkable growth, expanding into new industries and developed trusted partnerships with multinational companies. Reflecting on his tenure, Mr. Lahtinen has emphasized the importance of “dreams beyond the realities of today” in driving innovation and success.

 

Prior to Vaisala, Mr. Lahtinen held several international leadership roles at Nokia in Hong Kong, Latin America and Europe gaining extensive experience in global telecommunications markets. His roles included Head of Vodafone Group Business (2009–2012), Vice President for North West Europe (2006–2007), and Managing Director of Nokia México (2000–2004). In Mexico he also worked as Vice President for América Móvil Customer Business Team.

 

Born in 1963, Mr. Lahtinen holds a Master of Science degree in Electrical Engineering. He is a Finnish citizen and has been recognized for his visionary leadership, strategic acumen, and commitment to sustainable industrial development.

 

“We are honored to welcome Sampsa Lahtinen to our board,” says Harri Vatanen, founder of Kemijarvi Biorefinery Ltd. “His proven track record in scaling industrial operations and fostering innovation will be invaluable as we advance our mission to establish a world-class bioproduct factory. Americas is an important market for us and Sampsa´s extensive experience in the region is a great asset for us.”

 

“Transition to sustainable way of life can be attained only if consumers can afford to choose sustainable products of high quality. Kemijarvi Biorefinery is on the mission to contribute to this transition with advanced biobased products, produced ecologically and in an environmentally friendly manner. I am excited to join the board and work with the team to reach those objectives”, Mr.  Lahtinen says.