#MBIW 2025 SPEAKER INTRODUCTIONS

RV AHILAN AHILAN is a well-known and highly respected technology and business leader with over three decades of industry experience, more than 25 years of which has been at board level, including leadership positions at LOC, DNV GL, GL Garrad Hassan and Noble Denton.

With expertise in hydrodynamics, he has led projects which have set standards and safety factors in jack-up site assessment, mooring systems and marine transportation.

He has been an expert witness and technical advisor to lawyers in Norway, UAE and the UK on many technically complex cases related to marine operations, drilling rigs and FPSOs. He is Chairman of the charity Marine Technology Trust which supports industrial placements in the marine industry for UK university students. In addition to this, he is an Advisory Board Member of WavEC Offshore Renewables and was Non-Executive Director of a vertical axis wind turbine company.

JARKKO ARRAJOKI is a grain miller at heart, a builder in spirit, and an engineer by nature. He is motivated by creating new things and improving the old. Jarkko is happy when he sees people and things develop with his help. Jarkko has over 20 years of experience in various roles within the food industry. Currently, he serves as the CEO of Suomen Viljava Oy, focusing on the efficient operation of the Finnish grain chain and ensuring food security. Suomen Viljava Oy is the largest company in Finland specializing in the handling and storage of grain and agri-bulk raw materials. They operate across Finland with a total of 19 locations, five of which are in ports. 

  HOLLIE BLACK is a PhD student at the University of Strathclyde in Scotland, working within the Naval Architecture, Ocean, and Marine Energy department. Her research focuses on human factors and maritime safety, utilising AI techniques to automatically analyse incident reports and classify the human and causal factors involved. Before starting her PhD, she completed a Master’s degree in Mathematics and Statistics. The knowledge she gained during her master’s studies form the foundation of her current research, where she applies these techniques to address challenges in maritime safety. Hollie also works as a Junior Consultant at SeaFocus specialised in data analytics.

JOHANNA BOIJER-SVAHNSTRÖM is the Senior Vice President for Corporate Communications, Sustainability and Land-based HR of the listed company Viking Line Abp. With the roots in the archipelago, Viking Line is today at the forefront of environmental advances on the Baltic Sea. Johanna has a Master’ s Degree in Economics from Åbo Akademi University, Communications Studies in the USA. She is a Board Member of the Swedish Shipowners’ Association, Chairman for the Communications Committee and Deputy Board member of the Finnish Shipowners’ Association and Vice Chairman for the Åland Chamber of Commerce.  

SHRISHTI CHOUDHARY is a 

Shrishti Choudhary, with a Master’s in Actuarial Science and Data Science, integrates advanced statistical modelling and machine learning to solve complex problems. Educated in Australia and Germany, she gained global perspectives in analytics and innovation. At Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, she focused on digitalising tax systems, sharpening her analytical and problem-solving skills.

Currently in her third year at Sea Focus, Shrishti specialises in optimisation, predictive modelling, and forecasting in the maritime and logistics sectors. She leverages data-driven strategies to transform multifaceted datasets into actionable insights, empowering businesses to navigate challenges and embrace new opportunities.

JAN PHILIP ECKMANN has over 30 years active as journalist and moderator in the European Ferry and RoRo shipping industry. Founder of RoPax magazine and in cooperation with Wilhelm Borchert GmbH organizer of RoPax workshops. Moderator for the German Ferry Shipping and Tourism Association (VFF). He started his career in ferry shipping as a booking agent for TT Line and Euroway and Silja Line. After study time he was sales director for a leading forwarding company Bruhn Spedition in the Scandinavian and Continental trade. 10 years he was marketing director for Dräger Medical in Germany. He was over five years responsible for new business and services of the German FRS Group 

RASMUS ELSBORG-JENSEN is a data-driven pioneer by spirit and a leader by nature. He is inspired by advancing sustainable solutions and empowering others to act on climate challenges. Rasmus is happiest when he sees his work driving measurable change and fostering innovation.

As the Founder and CEO of ReFlow, now part of the Norwegian conglomerate Grieg, Rasmus has established a global presence in environmental engineering, with a focus on data-driven decarbonization for the maritime sector. His work supports shipowners and other maritime stakeholders in achieving measurable sustainability goals through lifecycle assessments and transparent data solutions.

Appointed an EU Climate Pact Ambassador by the European Commission, Rasmus is also a driving force behind the newly launched ISO 8266 standard, which defines energy efficiency requirements for maritime products and systems. 

JOHAN ELZES has a long and wide experience in logistics sectors. Currently he is the Senior Business Developmetn Manager, responsible for Industrial and Technology for Belgium, Netherlands and Nordics at GXO Logistics Inc.

JANNE-HENRIK FJÄDER is a Board Member at YoungShip Helsinki, and a Project Manager at BlueTech Finland.

Janne-Henrik has 10+ years of experience from shipbuilding to offshore, from supply vessels to cruise ships and positions in engineering to process development.

He did his bachelor’s degree in naval architecture in 2013 and last fall he finalised his master’s degree in mechanical and marine engineering. 

He started his career at the Turku shipyard 2012. He worked 1,5 years as a mechanical engineer designing Driller’s cabins for offshore oil rigs in Norway, and after that at the Helsinki Shipyard in various new build projects in multiple positions from Hull Design coordinator to Design quality responsible and Deputy Technical Manager. For the past 3+ years he has been working at Bluetech Finland mainly in Hull design but also working on data analysing and improvements in project management. 

GANGADHAR GUDE 

As the visionary behind ATAI, an applied AI company transforming the supply chain and logistics industries, Gangadhar Gude has led groundbreaking advancements in technology, earning accolades and reshaping global industries. 

Gangadhar’s journey began with a strong foundation in education. He holds a degree in Electronics Engineering and an MS in VLSI from Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University (JNTU). His early career at AMD Inc. as a Methodology Architect laid the groundwork for his expertise in SoC design, ESD/EMIR analysis, and end-to-end product development. 

In 2014, Gangadhar co-founded INVECAS Inc., a company specializing in silicon-proven IP solutions and ASIC design services. As part of its leadership, Gangadhar played a key role in establishing INVECAS as a significant player in the technology landscape. The company’s portfolio of IP assets was acquired by Synopsys, Inc. in 2020, while other business units were successfully acquired by Analog Devices, Inc. and Cadence Design Systems. Gangadhar also contributed to the company’s strategic direction throughout these pivotal M&A activities.

These high-profile acquisitions not only marked significant milestones for INVECAS but also gave Gangadhar invaluable exposure to the M&A process—from deal structuring and negotiations to integration planning. His hands-on experience in managing a startup through periods of rapid growth and transition highlights his ability to drive innovation while navigating the complexities of global business dynamics.

VILLE HAAPASAARI has been the CEO of Port of Helsinki since April 2018. Prior to this appointment he has worked at Finavia as the SVP, and the Helsinki Airport Director 2012-2018. Previously he worked in various responsibilities at Finnlines. His main emphasis being on the head of business positions and sales management. 

 SINIKKA HARTONEN is the Secretary General of the One Sea Association. She is an experienced transport

sector professional, with maritime as her area of expertise. Sinikka has a keen interest in

technological development and is curious to understand its transformational impact. She is

passionate about finding new ways to foster collaboration to generate positive change. Sinikka began

her career at sea, and after transitioning to shore, she has gained robust and diverse skills in transport

administration, advocacy work and business development. She holds a master’s degree in

economics, a bachelor's degree in maritime studies (Captain), and an EMBA from the Henley Business

School.

 STAFFAN HERLIN is the Chair of the Association of Finnish Waterways. Prior to this he served as a  Executive Vice President, Marketing and Sales at Finnlines Plc. He was also a Member of the Executive Committee. 

Staffan has a long experience in shipping business. Since his Master’s (Econ) degree in 1983 he has been faithful to the leading Finnish shipping company, Finnlines Plc and has held several positions within customer service, operations, profit units, sales and marketing, since 1995 on management level.

  EERO HOKKANEN works as Ministerial Adviser at the Finnish Ministry of Transport and Communications. His responsibilities include international negotiations in maritime transport, particularly the ongoing negotiations on reduction of GHG emissions from ships in the International Maritime Organization (IMO). He also serves as Alternate Permanent Representative of Finland to the IMO. 

Eero Hokkanen holds a Master’s degree in Social Sciences (International Relations). He chairs the Finnish-Norwegian Cultural Foundation. Previously in his career he has worked as Communications Manager at Arctia Ltd, the owner and operator of Finland’s icebreakers, and as Senior Adviser at the Finnish Embassy in Oslo, Norway.

PEKKA HYYSALO is the Founder of FightBack.  

Pekka was at the early stage of his professional skiing career when the direction of his life was changed in one second. On April 2010 he was seriously injured in a skiing accident at Ylläs, Finland. He hit his head, fell into coma for several weeks and got a high energy traumatic brain injury. Against all odds and thanks to Pekka’s will power, resilience, never give up and positive attitude he managed to fight back to a normal life.

As the fighting for AFP rankings changed into the fighting for life, also Pekka´s moral values changed. FightBack became a brand that gave Pekka a new mission in life. Today FightBack attitude encourages people with head trauma and also others in various challenging situations.

 JOHANNA JÄKÄLÄ is the Executive Director of Finland Promotion Services at Business Finland.

 She is a visionary, dynamic and result oriented commercial executive with +15 years experience in demanding, international Brand, Marketing, E-commerce, Sales, Customer Experience, CRM/Loyalty and Digital marketing Management & team leadership. Johanna Jäkälä has proven ability to transform business objectives into a solid, successful digital, customer value driven brand, marketing, sales & communication strategy. She has excellent ability to create a crystal clear and spot-on customer driven commercial strategy and lead people in the execution. 

  HANNU KALLIO is the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) at the Port of Naantali (Finland). He has previous experience from research institute (focusing on safety and risk management) and from chemical industry (fertiliser and industrial chemical production). Kallio holds also the position of vice-chairman for the Environmental Working group at the Finnish Ports Association.

He’s main interest are organisation and competence development, strategic thinking, resilience and operational excellence.

  PIIA KARJALAINEN is the CEO of the Finnish Port Association

Finnish Ports Association represents Finland's sea and inland ports in advocacy forums at EU and national level. Karjalainen has over 20 years of experience in various transport sector tasks in Finland and Brussels, where she lived and worked for seven years. She has previously worked in diverse transport, legislation and advocacy positions at the Finland Chamber of Commerce, Wärtsilä, MaaS Alliance, the European Parliament and the Finnish Ministry of Transport and Communications. She has been particularly involved in issues related to the national transport plans and strategies, digitalisation and preparedness. She is an economist by education.  

TAPIO KARVONEN is an expert in the maritime cluster, i.e., the business and public sector related to the marine industry, shipping and port operations. He has more than 20 years of experience in research and development at the University of Turku and two years at Business Turku.  As a result, he has extensive networks at regional, national, and international level.

His tasks include the development of regional maritime cluster cooperation networks and the promotion of RDI activities, university cooperation and investments of maritime companies with special emphasis on smart production and digitalisation.

ULLA KEINO  is a specialist in growth, expansion, supply chain and distribution strategies. She is fascinated in outsourcing, generating new business concepts involving different industries and cultures, using a strong and transparent customer loyalty approach. Ulla Keino is able to identify synergies and savings and materializing them with concrete down to earth implementation strategies. She sees opportunities even in the biggest challenges, thrives working with people understanding the meaning of true partnership and is able to enjoy joint success stories with them. 

Ulla Keino is known to take a good care of her wide international network of partners, colleagues and customer, and of her abilities to design classic, stylish, high level events, from the idea to the toast on a farewell dinner and beyond.

LAMIA KERDJOUDJ is the Secretary General of FEPORT, the Federation of European Private Port Companies and Terminals. She has a deep reservoir of knowledge and experience. As the Secretary General of FEPORT, the Federation of European Private Port Companies and Terminals, she has demonstrated expertise in the maritime and logistics sector. With an Executive MBA from ESSEC and Mannheim Business Schools, as well as Master´s Degrees in Shipping, Transport and Logistics, English Literature and Applied Psychology, she is well-equipped to contribute with valuable insights 

FRANK KHO is an independent advisor active in the container logistic and terminal industry since 2017. 

He has more than 30 years’ experience in this industry across the globe. His career includes 20+ year in several senior management positions in Asia and Europe with PSA and HPH, 2 of the leading global terminal operators. Frank also has been a member of the global leadership team of Kalmar for 7 years.

From 2018-2021 he was instrumental (as Advisor and CEO) in setting up the TIC 4.0 (Terminal Industry Committee 4.0) Association (www.tic40.org), developing standards for the terminal industry.

Recently he was appointed as the MD for ATAI Labs BV, the European entity for a global provider of logistic scanning solutions based on AI and video vision technology

Frank has a Master degree in Control Engineering/Avionics and is also an ICF-trained coach.

SANNA KOKKONEN is the CEO of Rohe Solutions Oy, a Finnish subsidiary of the Estonian energy innovator Alexela AS. 

Sanna has almost 30 years of experience in the energy sector from various roles ranging from consulting to business development and business leadership. She is also actively involved in mentoring programmes and in Finnish Gas association contributing to the development of the energy sector in Finland.

She is committed to driving innovation in renewable energy and believes in the power of collaboration to achieve these goals. In addition to sustainability, she firmly believes that a positive customer experience is key to success. Throughout her career, Sanna has collaborated closely with customers and partners to develop and deliver better solutions and services in renewable energy.

Her vision at Rohe Solutions is to make a change: Gas will flow greener in the future!

MBA HANNA KORVENPÄÄ has been the Managing director of Kuehne + Nagel Finland since 2018. Before becoming the managing director, Korvenpää was the company's sales director. Korvenpää has extensive experience in the logistics industry in various positions over the years. In addition to work, Korvenpää is studying for a doctorate at UBIS Geneva. 

Korvenpää has a role in logistics trust positions at the Central Chamber of Commerce, the Helsinki Region Chamber of Commerce and EK (Confederation of Finnish Industries).

MIKAEL LAINE has served as Senior Vice President, Strategy with Cargotec since 2014. He is a member of Cargotec Leadership team. Since 2016 he has also acted as a Member of the Board of Directors of Aspo Plc and as vice chair since 2023.   

ALEXANDRA LINDAHL is a Board Member at YoungShip Helsinki, and a Claims Executive P&J at Alandia.

She has  over ten years of professional experience in the maritime business: harbour, marine insurance, shipping companies, freight forwarding, export coordinator, lecturing, and maritime education.
Alexandra has Master of Science (Econ.), majoring in Maritime and Commercial Law and Minoring in Economics and International Marketing. She has gained robust international competence through studies on two different continents and four different countries, with entirely fluent language skills in four languages and both board and chairperson experience from NGO's, and proven leadership skills.

DANI LINDBERG is the Sustainability Manager, DPO at Viking Line Abp. He is experienced in sustainability reporting and project management and has particularly been involved in impact and scenario analysis of regulatory frameworks, including the EU’s ambitious Fit-for-55 legislation. Dani is responsible for collaboration with external stakeholders in various projects and studies.

DUONG MAI is a Master’s student in Business Analytics at Aalto University specializing in supply chain analytics. She combines a data-driven mindset, problem-solving skills, and storytelling to deliver impactful business insights. She also aspires to deliver positive value to the community with an ESG, sustainability reporting, and SDG solutions sustainability background. Duong also works as a Junior Consultant at SeaFocus specialised in data analytics.

MIIKA MANDELL is the CEO of South Finland Port Services. Within the company, he has held positions such as Head of Operations and Resource Manager at the Port of Helsinki Ltd., as well as various other supervisor and expert roles. With over 20 years of experience in the port industry and related sectors, Miika has cultivated a strong and versatile approach to business.

Miika is an innovative professional who applies an entrepreneurial mindset to business development. His expertise encompasses strategic planning and implementation, project management, and the optimization of processes, teams, and organizational operations. He is particularly recognized for his ability to develop practical solutions to complex challenges and his strong commitment to achieving goals.

The techno-economic integration of sustainability into daily operations and its transformation into sustainable business opportunities are currently among Miika’s primary drivers.

Professor JOHN MANNERS-BELL BA (Hons) MSc AKC FCILT is Founder and CEO of the Foundation for Future Supply Chain, Chief Executive of Ti, Honorary Visiting Professor at the London Metropolitan University’s Guildhall Faculty of Business and Law and adviser to the World Economic Forum.

He has over 35 years’ experience working in and analysing the global logistics sector. John started his working life as an operations manager of a logistics company based in the UK. Prior to establishing Ti in 2002, he worked as an analyst in consultancies specialising in international trade, transport and logistics. He also spent a number of years as a manager of UPS, in a strategic marketing and communications role. John holds an MSc in Transport Planning and Management from University of Westminster and is an Associate of King’s College London where he studied Classics and Theology.

GOLAM MORTUJA  is a seasoned maritime industry professional specializing in naval architecture and ship design. He pursued his master's double degree in Europe, studying at NTNU in Norway, TU Delft in the Netherlands, and Aalto University in Finland. After graduating in 2014, Mortuja started his career at Bluetech Finland in Helsinki as a ship stability expert and concept developer, then enhanced his sales expertise at ABB as an Azipod service sales engineer in his last role. With nearly about 10 years of working experience in maritime industry, currently, Mortuja serves as the Senior Superintendent at Royal Caribbean Group's Maritime Technology Team, where he focuses on pioneering innovation and sustainable solutions within the maritime sector.

 MARCO MUCI is passionate about driving sustainable growth and innovation in international port logistics, with a strong background in the Mediterranean and MENA regions. He is specialised in fostering cross-border partnerships, managing large-scale projects, and delivering tailored training programs that prepare future logistics professionals.
With over six years of experience, Marco has spearheaded projects under the ENI CBC MED program, such as YEP MED, Technology, and Green Marine MED, that align with the industry's shift towards greener practices. His expertise lies in understanding complex logistics systems, developing industry-specific education initiatives, and connecting stakeholders for impactful collaboration. 

  ESKO MUSTAMÄKI has over 30 years extensive experience in shipping and shipbuilding industries in Finland. His previous experience includes executive positions in a leading Finnish RoRo/RoPax operator, an Icebreaker/offshore vessel operator, and a leading Finnish shipyard. During his career, he has worked on several restructuring and business development projects. In 1984, Mr. Mustamäki graduated from the Helsinki University of Technology with a Master's degree in Engineering (Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering). 

MARKKU MYLLY has been working on maritime and shipping sector for 50 years in Finland and abroad. He has a vast and comprehensive experience of the shipping and maritime sector on both, public and commercial sides. He has been involved in developing national and international VTS-systems, icebreaking fleet and operations, maritime safety, maritime security, and environmental protection related topics and international collaboration. He also has gained experience in maritime and shipping regulatory framework in relation to safety, security, environmental protection and maritime emissions. His experience is focused also on the port sector, port technological development, digitalization, logistics and markets.  

HANNU MÄNTYMAA  is the Vice President of Voyage Services in Wärtsilä Marine. He is also having local Wärtsilä Finland Oy company Managing Director role. Hannu has been working 23 years in Wärtsilä in various expert and leadership roles in marine organisations. Before current role he has been for example having a role of managing director for Wärtsilä’s Joint Venture company in China for 4 years and he has also been heading Wärtsilä’s engine R&D in Vaasa Finland. Hannu is passionate about decarbonization and new technical innovations and service concepts enabling our industry to turn future challenges into opportunities.  

Dr ROLF NEISE has a long career in SCM, both in senior line management in some global FMCG companies in different countries around the world as well as in various consultancies. Amongst others, he was working as the Global Head of Logistics Operations at BAT (British American Tobacco plc), in charge of defining and implementing BAT’s logistics strategy in the e2e supply chain. Currently he is Member of the Intelligence Hunt Team, where he drives the international Supply Chain focus forward. As a Senior Advisor he also supports multinational companies to optimize their SCM and logistics structures, and gives lectures at the International School of Management (ISM). 

KRISTA ORVOMAA is the Sales, Marketing, and Customer Service Manager for Finnlines Passenger Services.  She has a key role in creating and implementing consumer and business-to-business marketing and sales strategies. In addition to her leading role in domestic and international marketing and sales, she is responsible for directing, overseeing, and developing customer service operations to facilitate high-quality customer service experiences. Her passion is leading the design, build, and delivery of valuable and meaningful end-to-end customer experiences online and offline. She has been involved in the maritime tourism industry for over 15 years and strongly believes that technology and human capability combined deliver the best value to customers.   

MATTIAS OTTOSSON serves as the HSE Delivery Manager at Noble Corp., where he focuses on long-term safety strategies based on Human Organizational Performance (HOP) and Safety II concepts. Leading teams responsible for offshore rig operations, Mattias is committed to sustainable and efficient practices in the shipping and oil & gas sectors. Recently, he was appointed as the Blue MBA Ambassador for North America.  

VESA PALANDER is an international serial entrepreneur with 30-year experience and success in building up new businesses and companies. Since 2006, he has founded companies in Finland, Denmark, UK, Germany, USA and UAE; and exited successfully from 4 of the ventures so far. Vesa is passionate about new business development, strategic partnership creation, data and business & organizational improvement. Prior to becoming an entrepreneur, he was a senior exec at Nokia, Jabra, and Coloplast for nearly 15 years. His latest professional adventure started in May 2024 when he joined City of Turku to strengthen the city as a competitive and attractive environment for businesses and inhabitants alike.

ELLA PARVIAINEN is the Global Team Lead for Legal Logistics & Supply at Neste Plc, managing a multinational team across three continents. She specializes in maritime and transportation law, corporate law, and sustainability requirements, with a focus on feedstock supply and logistics.

Ella holds an LL.M., advanced maritime law credentials from the University of Oslo. Her academic foundation is complemented by a BBA and leadership training at the International Institute for Management Development (IMD). With extensive experience in legal strategy, contract negotiation, and dispute resolution, she has held key roles at Neste Plc, Finnlines Plc, and HPP Attorneys Ltd.

Ella chairs YoungShip Helsinki, serves on the boards of the Finnish Maritime Law Association and Finnish Ports Association. She is also the Godmother of the crude oil tanker M/T Jaarli, recognizing her contributions to the maritime industry.

HARILAOS N. PSARAFTIS is Professor Emeritus at the Department of Technology, Management and Economics at the Technical University of Denmark (DTU). His areas of interest are maritime logistics, intermodal logistics, port logistics, and green logistics. He has a PhD from MIT, where he was a faculty member from 1979 to 1989. He was a Professor at the National Technical University of Athens (NTUA) from 1989 to 2013 and at DTU from 2013 to 2023. He also served as CEO of the port of Piraeus from 1996 to 2002. He has published extensively and has received several academic and industry awards. His latest book is entitled “Sustainable Shipping: A Cross-Disciplinary View”, Springer (2019). 

Capt. HENRIK RAMM-SCHMIDT is the CEO and Founder of Fleetrange and nauticAi – holds a Master Mariner degree and has worked in all positions onboard merchant ships, from deckhand to officer to Master and even Ship owner. Before starting his startup-ventures, he spent five years as a very successful Product and Sales Manager at Napa Ltd for Napa's shipboard Safety Solutions and before this he sailed on various types of ships for a total period of around 10 years. Henrik did his military service in the Finnish Marines and graduated as the top of his contingent from the Finnish Naval Academy.

NAPO RAMODIBEDI is the Executive Chairman of Mendi Group of companies, which is an integrated shipping and logistics company offering pit-to-port bulk solutions including rail logistics and vessel chartering. Mendi specialises in the movement of bulk critical minerals throughout Southern Africa. Napo holds, amongst others, an EMBA in Shipping and Logistics (Blue MBA) from Copenhagen Business School; an LLM in Maritime Law and a law degree from the University of Cape Town. He is an admitted attorney in South Africa.

 PATRIK RAUTAHEIMO joined Elomatic in 2013 and currently he is the Chair of the Board. Prior to joining Elomatic, Rautaheimo was Head of Engineering at the Turku Shipyard as well as earlier Shipyard in Wismar, Germany. In addition to his responsibilities at Elomatic, Rautaheimo holds the position of the Chairman at the Finnish Maritime Industries Association. He also serves on the boards of 3D design software companies Napa and CADMATIC. Furthermore, he is a Board Member at Meriaura, a Finnish shipowner company. 

 KHALIL REHMAN AZIZ   

is a seasoned business leader with nearly two decades of experience driving strategic growth and operational excellence across diverse industries. An alumnus of XLRI Jamshedpur, his expertise spans business development, sales, marketing, IT program management, and corporate performance management.

With a proven track record in delivering high-impact solutions, Khalil has excelled in cultivating strong client relationships and maximizing value from business transformation initiatives. His career has taken him across the globe, with a particular focus on Europe, the US, and APAC.

Prior to assuming the role of Managing Director at MariApps in 2023, Khalil held leadership positions within the organization, serving as Lead Director from 2020 and Director from 2011. Before joining MariApps, he honed his skills as a Data Manager-IT at Jumeirah Group and as a Software Engineer/SQL Lead at Computer Sciences Corporation.

 LENA RIDSTRÖM is the CEO of Triona Group. For the last 30 years she has been working with ERP and Supply Chain solutions in companies like IFS, Primelog, Pagero, Columbus and now in Triona, in different leadership roles developing global supply chains for international companies and lately built a "Data and AI" business line in six countries for Colmbus. Today she is CEO of Triona, a tech company listed on the Swedish stock exchange, with focus on Infrastructure, Transport and Forestry in the Nordics. Moreover, she has been engaged as a Board Member in several logistics and software companies like Oriola Ojy, IMI AB,  4C Strategies AB and Good Solutions AB. She is also a Member of the SeaFocus Executive Advisory Committee.

SIMON ROBSON is the Vice President, responsible for Global Marketing and Communications at ABB Marine and Ports. 

MARTIN ROOLVINK has over 15 years of experience in the LNG shipping industry, mainly in the fields of commercial operations, technical management and crewing for large LNG Carriers. He was appointed as Managing Director of Pronav Ship Management in 2019. The company is based in Hamburg and a member of the family-owned Schulte Group, which is a major ship owner and global maritime service provider. Pronav operates a fleet of modern LNG Carriers and has a crew pool of more than 400 highly qualified and experienced seafarers. Prior to his current assignment Martin worked as a consultant for RoRo & ferry operators for many years, and as such he has closely observed the development of the European ferry market since the 1990s.

  IRENE ROSBERG is the Programme Director, Executive MBA in Shipping and Logistics (The Blue MBA) at the Copenhagen Business School. 

Irene Rosberg commands enormous respect throughout the maritime and logistics sectors for her work in executive education, in research identifying future challenges for industry, and for skill in building global relationships. She is a member of many international boards and committees. Based on her extensive international network and experience, she has been entrusted with major roles in varied maritime-related activities and speaks at major maritime events. She is the Programme Director, Executive MBA in Shipping and Logistics (The Blue MBA) and the Blue Board Leadershiip and Governance Programme at the Copenhagen Business School.  

EIJA ROSSI has been working as Commercial Director of Port of HaminaKotka since December 2017. She has extensive and versatile experience in the logistics industry from various roles, and before joining Port of HaminaKotka, she held management positions in DHL Freight for several years.

ARI-PEKKA SAARI  is the CEO of Steveco Oy. Originally from Vaasa, in 1993 he joined Finland's leading port operator in Kotka as a lawyer. Over the past three quarters of a century in addition to being Steveco Group’s lawyer, Saari has acted as Director of Finance and Administration, Managing Director of the subsidiary Oy Saimaa Terminals Ab, Executive Vice President of Steveco Oy and, from October 2022, Steveco’s CEO.

Saari is actively involved in national and local positions of trust in the logistics sector. He is, for example, Chairman of the Board of the Finnish Port Operators Association and a member of the Board of the Finnish Freight Forwarding and Logistics Association (FIFFLA), Chairman of the Board of Cursor Oy, a regional development company in southern Kymenlaakso, and a member of the Board of the Kymenlaakso Chamber of Commerce. Saari is Honorary Consul of Sweden in Kymenlaakso.

JONI SATTA is a nearly graduated MSc. Student at Turku School of Economics with a passion in supply chain management, sustainability and business data analytics. Through his academic and professional journey, he is to leverage data-driven insights to create efficient and sustainable solutions. Joni works also as a Junior Consultant at SeaFocus specialised in supply chain management.

STEFANO SCARPA is a qualified naval architect with 25 years’ experience in ship design, engineering consulting, project management and marine surveying. He has expert knowledge in ship technology, energy efficiency measures, alternative fuels and the fast-evolving decarbonisation regulatory international framework.

He has a strong passion and interest in sustainability, decarbonisation and energy efficiency, and he is a supporting member of the International Windship Association.

Stefano holds an MBA from Warwick Business School and has been growing and managing businesses for the last ten years. Before joining ABL Group, he was the Managing Director of the world’s largest superyacht sailing systems service business.

Currently Stefano Scarpa works as an Associate Director on Maritime Decarbonisation at ABL Group.

MARGUS SCHULTS is an international CEO passionate about the future of technology and customer experience. Currently he holds double roles as CEO of Tallink Silja Oy in Finland and CFO of the Tallink Group. He has also held various leadership positions in the banking industry. He is a member of the Management Board of AS Tallink Grupp since April 2021.

Margus has been working with the Tallink Group since 2008. His additional roles include being a member of the Supervisory Board in different significant Finnish companies. He holds a PhD in Technology and Electronics from TalTech (Tallinn University of Technology).

ROMMO SHAMS is a Business Analyst at SeaFocus, where he has successfully delivered multiple projects in the maritime and sustainability sectors. Currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Business Analytics at Aalto University, he combines a passion for data and entrepreneurship with strong business acumen. His professional journey also includes serving as a Team Lead at Slush, further showcasing his leadership and project management skills.

SANNA SONNINEN is the Maritime Director at the Finnish Transport and Communication Agency, Traficom.

PETER STÅHLBERG is the Managing Director of Wasaline. He is a master mariner with a long background in the marine industry. Peter sailed 22 years as Captain in all waters on passenger and cruise ships, with the specialty of the Captaincy in Polar waters with 5 seasons in Antarctica, and a few seasons in the Arctic and Alaska. Peter has also been involved in many projects with new shipping lines and commencement of new routes, combined with rebuilding and newbuilding projects in the cruise industry.  

REKO-ANTTI SUOJANEN serves as Senior Ministerial Advisor at Finland's Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment, leading the trilateral ICE Pact initiative to enhance Arctic icebreaker collaboration between Finland, Canada, and the US.

 With over 25 years of experience in Arctic technology and shipbuilding, he has deep expertise in designing and maintaining icebreakers and advancing Arctic capabilities.

Previously, Mr. Suojanen was CEO of Aker Arctic Technology Inc. for 10 years and held roles such as R&D Manager and Project Director at Kvaerner Masa-Yards and Aker Yards. He has also been active in Finnish Marine Industries and holds board memberships in marine-related organizations.as also been involved in many projects with new shipping lines and commencement of new routes, combined with rebuilding and newbuilding projects in the cruise industry.  

KAJ TAKOLANDER, a.k.a. Tico

Vice President, Passenger Services

Port of Helsinki Ltd

Tico has a business education, MSc (Econ), and a strong sales- and marketing background, both within B2C and B2B. He has successfully held several executive positions in companies, e.g.  Sinebrychoff (Carlsberg), Red Bull, Copterline, Finnlines and Viking Line.

His visions are based on totally 18 years’ of professional experience within the passenger shipping sector and 16 years as supplier of goods and services to duty free and travel retail.

Tico’s motto is “Think Big” and he is currently deeply involved in the development program of the Helsinki city center ports.

ULLA TAPANINEN is Full Professor (maritime transport) at Tallinn University of Technology, Estonia. She is also Adjunct Professor (maritime economics and logistics) at University of Turku, Finland. Tapaninen has over 30 years’ experience in logistics and maritime transport in academia, public and private sector. She has worked in key positions in two Finnish shipping companies (bulk and RoRo sector) and worked as a senior expert at City of Helsinki in charge of maritime cluster development. She has published dozens of peer-reviewed journal articles, conference papers, and reports as well as other publications in scientific and non-scientific journals. She is a frequent speaker in seminars and has worked as a board member in several companies and other organizations. She has published a textbook Maritime Transport by Kogan Page presenting the fundamentals of maritime business.

KATY TEDMON-BURY is a Board Member of YoungShip Helsinki, and a

Sales & Marketing Assistant at ABB.

 JOHANNES TERVO is a young, award-winning performer and entrepreneur specializing in startup entrepreneurship and new technologies. Johannes is especially keen in helping young people pursue impactful careers and starting their own businesses.

By background, Johannes is an MSc of engineering, and has impacted broadly in the Finnish startup scene, organizing the startup and technology event Slush, working in venture capital, and currently building an energy technology company Intergrid, electrifying industrial heating in Europe. 

ULLA TERÄS has been the CEO of Forum Marinum since 2022. Forum Marinum is a maritime center and museum with a key national role in preserving and presenting Finland’s naval and maritime heritage. With a background in public sector leadership and strategic development, she is committed to strengthening the center’s role as an active, future-oriented maritime hub. Under her leadership Forum Marinum inspires collaboration and engagement for the benefit of the sea.

TONI VANHALA  a graduate of Heidelberg University [M.A., Political Science], is an experienced regional and city development specialist with a history of working in national, regional, and municipal administration and business advisory services. Serving currently as Director of City Development and Communications in the City of Kotka, Finland, he is responsible, inter alia, for city development strategy, advocacy efforts and business development services in the city administration.

 With over 30 years of global experience in the oil and gas industry, CESAR VERA brings a wealth

of expertise and strategic insight to Fueltrax. His career includes leadership roles at renowned

organizations such as SLB, Nabors, GE (Baker Hughes), Siemens, and Naviera Integral, giving him

an unparalleled understanding of both offshore and onshore operations.

As Director of Global Reach and Strategy at Fueltrax, Cesar leads initiatives to expand the

company’s international presence and cultivate diverse market opportunities. 

Cesar’s contributions extend beyond Fueltrax; he serves as Vice President of the Board of Advisors for Holland House Mexico and actively participates as a member of the Technical Committee and Awards Judges Panel for the Global Energy Show. 

 NINA VESTERINEN is a tourism industry expert with over 30 years of experience across a wide variety of roles including management, destination marketing, consultancy, education, and public policy.

During her years as a head of tourism affairs at the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment of Finland and at National Rural Tourism Network, she gained a comprehensive knowledge of national, regional, and theme-based strategy design and implementation. She has also been a member of OECD Tourism Committee and EUBSR Policy Area Tourism Steering Group. She has experience in policy formulation, destination management, marketing, innovation processes and product development at both company and regional levels including appreciation of the challenges SME´s and tourism destinations are facing. Sustainable tourism and knowledge management are close to her heart.  

PER WESTLING has been employed by Stena since 1985. In addition to a M.Sc. degree in Naval Architecture from Chalmers Technical University of Gothenburg, Sweden, Mr Westling is trained as an Engineer within the Royal Swedish Navy. Within the Stena group he has been project manager for several newbuildings and major conversion projects but also served for five years within the Stena Line Ship Management. In 2001 he moved to Stena RoRo as Conversion Manager, took on the role of Deputy Managing Director in 2008 and subsequently Managing Director in 2011.  

KAI WICKLUND is the Managing Director of DHL Freight (Finland) Oy.

POUL WOODALL has more than 50 years experience in the maritime world with a passion for climate and environmental issues. Educated as a Maersk management trainee, he has spent 17 years working aboard in Asia, Middle East and Europe. More recently he has been active on the shipping climate and environmental agenda working with -and for -a number of interests organizations including Danish Shipping, UK Chamber of Shipping and Interferry. On the marine policy front, Mr. Woodall has represented shipping interests at IMO and EU, latter through the ESSF network for a number of years.

JOHANNA VÄÄNÄNEN is a specialist in Business Transformation. She has several years of experience in Program Management, Change Management and Transformation both in Finland and abroad. She is passionate about process development, always seeking smarter and more efficient ways of working to reduce waste. Johanna’s expertise spans multiple industries, including Retail, Manufacturing, Food, Construction, Health Care, Logistics, and Banking. She has a strong background in Business Process Outsourcing and Shared Services (Finance and Accounting & HR), along with experience in Facilitation, Training, Management Coaching, and implementing Management Systems.

 ANSIS ZELTINS is the CEO of the Freeport of Riga, Latvia.

Previously, he was the Chairman of the Council of the SJSC “Latvijas

dzelzceļš” and Member of the Board of “Rīgas Brīvostas flote” Ltd. He

has gained diplomatic experience in the Permanent Representation of

the Republic of Latvia to the European Union in Brussels, working as a

Transport Adviser. Prior to that, he was the Chairman of the Board of the

subsidiary company “LSC Shipmanagement” Ltd. of JSC “Latvijas kuģniecība” and managed the JSC “Latvijas Jūras administrācija”

(Maritime Administration of Latvia) for more than 9 years.

Ansis Zeltiņš is representing Latvia at  the International Maritime Organization (IMO), the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO), Member of the Board of the European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA) and the Head of the Shipping Working Group of the Council of Europe. Member of the Board

of the Baltic Ports Organization (BPO) since 2018, Member of the Board of the Employers' Confederation of Latvia (LDDK). He was elected

as a Chairman of ESPO in November 2024.