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Janne Puustinen works as a CIO in Valmet. He is experienced enterprise CIO with vast experience of leading change and development in global companies. Strong R&D background together with long business CIO experience during the times of mergers, acquisitions, divestments and restructuring are the ingredients of seasoned enterprise CIO.

In an ever-evolving world of technology, the role of Information Technology (IT) within organizations has undergone a significant transformation in recent years. At Valmet, a global leader in providing process technologies, automation, and services, the IT function for the pulp, paper and energy industries. With our automation systems and flow control solutions we serve an even wider base of process industries has been on a journey of continuous improvement, adaptation, and innovation. As we stand at the threshold of exciting possibilities, we reflect on the key principles that guide our approach to propel the company forward.

1. Focus on the essentials

The first principle is clarity of purpose. In a sea of tasks and technologies, it's crucial to identify the essentials. Not everything can be accomplished simultaneously, and priorities may differ among stakeholders. As CIO of Valmet, my primary responsibility is to strategize what needs to be done and in what order. This involves thorough approach to ensure that the most crucial aspects align with agreed schedules, setting a course for success.

2. Embrace direction over perfection

In the fast-paced world of IT, the perfect plan is often an elusive mirage. We acknowledge that not everything can be accurately planned, especially in large-scale projects. What matters most is the direction we choose to take and the forward-aiming mindset. Once the compass points the way, we must start moving. Even small victories along this journey serve as powerful motivators. Celebrating these minor successes provides the fuel for sustained progress.

“As CIO of Valmet, my primary responsibility is to strategize what needs to be done and in what order.”

3. Business needs drive us forward

At Valmet, our IT endeavors are inseparably linked to our broader business strategy. Everything we do is geared towards achieving our business goals and serving our customers better. Our mission is to empower Valmet's growth and facilitate the creation of new, digitally-driven business avenues. This includes enabling internal digitalization and leading organizational change.

And – let’s not forget – in my position it’s all about leading the change and change can only happen through people that work for us.

A curious mindset

One of the most compelling aspects of working in IT, or any technology-related field, is the constant evolution of the industry. In my case, coming from a mechanical engineering background, I've learned that diverse perspectives enrich the IT landscape. Effective communication with various stakeholders and networks is vital, but above all, curiosity is the linchpin. Without a genuine interest in technology and its developments, this role would be an uphill battle.

As we venture into this fascinating era, the rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI) looms large on the horizon. AI is no longer a buzzword; it's a tangible tool that has a potential to revolutionize our operations. However, amid the excitement, we must not lose sight of the fundamentals. Data remains at the core of AI, and its meticulous management is paramount. Additionally, the capabilities of machine vision hold intriguing potential for our business, promising novel opportunities and innovations.

In conclusion, Valmet's IT journey has been marked by adaptability, a relentless focus on essentials, and a commitment to business growth. As we move forward, our mindset remains anchored in these principles. Change is not just a technological evolution; it's a cultural shift that can only be achieved through the collective efforts of our dedicated team. Together, we embrace the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, driven by a relentless curiosity and a commitment to the fundamentals.