Petri Leppinen assumed the role of CEO of Kilkanen on October 1, 2023. Arto Aro, who served as Kilkanen’s CEO for the past year, will continue to contribute to the company’s development as a member of the Board of Directors while also continuing as the CEO of Uwira.
Continued development of Kilkanen’s operations
During his first month on the job, Kilkanen’s new CEO has already familiarized himself with the projects currently underway at the company.
“One of our major projects involves developing Kilkanen’s manufacturing operations. In developing our production, we have taken the automotive industry’s quality requirements into account, and a significant amount of quality-related documentation has been produced in recent months. This represents a move into new territory for us; it is a valuable learning experience that paves the way for profitable growth.”
As a group, Leinolat Group has decided to enhance sustainability practices across the entire organization, and Leppinen is also mindful of the challenges that lie ahead.
“Since we operate within a subcontracting supply chain, we must continue to evolve alongside our principal clients to meet customer needs. In addition to advancing responsible business practices, we must also address the challenge of finding skilled and motivated personnel. The demands of working life have shifted in the 21st century, and versatility—possessing a broad range of skills—has become increasingly important. This creates challenges for recruitment and skills development, as, ultimately, everything hinges on production.”
Leppinen was selected for the role from within the group
Prior to his new position, Leppinen had served as Purchasing Manager at T-DRILL since 2019. At T-DRILL, he managed two technical purchasers and was responsible for procurement worth several million euros. In addition, he oversaw component manufacturing at T-DRILL’s Isokyrö site in the role of Production Manager.
“T-DRILL was an interesting place to work, especially given that the majority of their production is destined for export. It offered the opportunity to work in a highly international environment while based in Laihia. Of course, I sometimes found it challenging to divide my attention and time between two locations and different responsibilities. On the other hand, that experience prepared me for this new role. Although the task involves managing a single company, there are even more moving parts and matters requiring attention than before.”
A bold choice during her studies shaped her career path
Leppinen has pursued new challenges with determination throughout her career. She made a choice during her student years that defined the direction of her professional life.
“I originally started studying information technology, but I realized that programming wasn’t for me—even though I’d been tinkering with computers since elementary school. I switched to studying industrial management and began my career at Velsa (now Fortacoi) as a purchaser, filling in for someone on maternity leave. After five years in purchasing and quality roles, I worked as a sales manager for a company that manufactures electrical switchboards.”
Two years later, Velsa contacted Leppinen and asked her to return to Kurikka to take on a sales role.
“In practice, I didn’t end up doing sales work at Velsa, as I started as a purchasing manager on my very first day back. I have also served as a quality manager and a production manager.”
Leppinen finds production management highly interesting.
“There are so many variables involved in production management. You have employees and machinery, and customer needs can change, too. Responding to all of this keeps the workday nicely filled. On top of that, you have to be ready to develop the company’s operations and the staff’s skills, as well as consider various investments. To use a cliché, no two days are alike,” Leppinen concludes.