I am an industrial physicist by background and have a PhD in applied physics from the University of Jyväskylä. My career has mainly focused on research and product development management, but for a few years I have also worked on industrial property rights. I felt that my technical and scientific background was at a good level, but I wanted to broaden my knowledge from a business and economic perspective, as commercial viability is as important as innovation in the development of new technologies.
I therefore decided to complement my skills with an MBA from HELBUS and the University of Northampton. I had already realised in my professional life that by combining technical and business skills, I could differentiate myself and progress to more demanding management positions. The MBA taught me how to interpret financial figures, assess returns on investment and take a broader view of strategic decisions.
The HELBUS MBA provided an excellent opportunity to develop business skills in a flexible way while working. The international approach and the academic standards of a British university brought new perspectives that complemented my previous technical knowledge.
Since completing the degree, I have been able to use the lessons learned directly in my work as Valmet's Research and Development Manager. I have been able to develop approaches between research and development and sales and marketing - ensuring that the results of product development also have a strong commercial basis. For my part, I would recommend the HELBUS MBA programme to anyone with a technical or scientific background who wants to progress to management positions. It provides a unique opportunity to combine technical and business skills in a way that will make a real difference to career prospects and the success of the organisation and the company.
