On July 1, 2025, Jussi Vanhanen officially began his tenure as President and CEO of Metsä Group.
His appointment follows the retirement of Ilkka Hämälä, who held the position since 2018 and played a central role in the company’s strategic development.
Vanhanen brings extensive international leadership experience to the role, particularly within the forest industry. His transition into leadership was previously announced by the company earlier this year.
Ilkka Hämälä is recognized for advancing Metsä Group’s competitiveness through major investments in production facilities and the development of new business areas. He also prioritized sustainability and biodiversity initiatives within the company’s forestry operations.
“Ilkka Hämälä has led Metsä Group with determination and dedication,” said Jussi Linnaranta, Chair of the Board of Directors. “His legacy will also be reflected in Metsä Group’s strategy in the future.”
Linnaranta also expressed support for Vanhanen’s appointment, noting its importance for the continued success of the cooperative and its approximately 90,000 forest-owner members.
Metsä Group is a Finnish forest industry cooperative operating in wood supply and forest services, wood products, pulp, paperboard, tissue, and greaseproof papers. It is owned by around 90,000 Finnish forest owners through Metsäliitto Cooperative.
