Honkarakenne Enhances Executive Group Dynamics
Honkarakenne Oyj is actively refining its management structure, focusing on its executive group to better align with strategic goals for 2025–2028. This transformation became effective at the onset of the new year and marks a significant evolution in the company’s approach.
New Appointments and Responsibilities
Juhani Saukko has been appointed as Vice President – Operations Finland B2C. His extensive tenure at Honkarakenne has spanned over 20 years, reflecting an impressive career marked by various roles, including Product Pricing Manager and Sales Manager for Finland's B2C sector. These new appointments aim to leverage his experience to enhance decision-making and operational effectiveness.
Clarifying Leadership Roles
As part of the restructuring, Honkarakenne is refining the roles of executive members within various business and support functionalities. The CEO, Marko Saarelainen, will continue leading the company while also taking on additional responsibilities in export business, personnel management, and marketing strategies, ensuring an integrated approach to leadership.
Strategic Direction Under New Leadership
Petri Perttula will transition to a pivotal role as Vice President – Operations Global B2B. He will oversee planning functions, marking an important shift in responsibilities that reinforces the company’s commitment to expanding its global reach in the B2B sector.
Product Development and Financial Oversight
Meanwhile, Eino Hekali, Vice President – Product, will expand his portfolio to include production, procurement, and design, while Chief Financial Officer Maarit Jylhä will integrate digital services and service development into her responsibilities. This strategic alignment sets a clear focus on enhancing product quality and maintaining financial health.
Streamlined Operations for Better Agility
Juha-Matti Hanhikoski and Maarit Taskinen will continue their crucial roles outside the executive group, focusing on production and export responsibilities, respectively. The decision to streamline the executive group is part of a broader strategy aimed at achieving quicker and more agile decision-making processes, vital for navigating difficult market conditions.
Fostering Growth in Challenging Markets
Despite encountering challenges in the market, Honkarakenne remains committed to fostering growth, particularly in export markets across both the B2C and B2B sectors. CEO Marko Saarelainen expressed his gratitude for the contributions of outgoing members while welcoming Juhani Saukko to the executive team. This shift underscores the company's dedication to innovative leadership and proactive strategies.
Honkarakenne’s Executive Group Structure
As of January 1, 2025, the new structure of Honkarakenne’s executive group includes:
- Marko Saarelainen – President and CEO
- Eino Hekali – Vice President – Product
- Maarit Jylhä – Vice President – Finance, CFO
- Petri Perttula – Vice President – Operations Global B2B
- Juhani Saukko – Vice President – Operations Finland B2C
This robust leadership structure is designed to complement the company’s operational strategies and enhance overall performance.
About Honkarakenne Oyj
Honkarakenne Oyj specializes in the design and manufacture of premium log homes, vacation residences, and institutional buildings using Finnish solid wood. The company operates under its respected Honka® brand, having proudly completed 90,000 constructions across more than 50 countries. Honkarakenne’s factory in Karstula produces high-quality house kits, contributing to a successful financial track record with net sales reaching EUR 46.3 million in 2023, where exports made up 31% of total sales.
Frequently Asked Questions
What changes were made to Honkarakenne's executive team?
Honkarakenne Oyj streamlined its executive group to enhance operational efficiency and decision-making processes, including new appointments and redefined roles.
Who is the new Vice President – Operations Finland B2C?
Juhani Saukko has been appointed to this position, bringing over 20 years of experience with the company to support growth strategies.
What is Marko Saarelainen's role in the new structure?
He remains as President and CEO while expanding responsibilities to include export business, personnel management, and marketing.
What focus areas does the restructured team have?
The executive group is targeting sales growth and operational agility in both Finnish and international markets.
What does Honkarakenne manufacture?
The company produces high-quality log homes, holiday homes, and public buildings, primarily from Finnish solid wood, maintaining a strong export presence.
