Alongside his day-to-day role, Jaakko Vehviläinen actively contributes to the development of the energy sector through the Finnish Energy industry’s Electricity Market Committee, where topics such as electricity market development, regulation, and upcoming reforms are discussed. In this interview, Jaakko shares insights into his career path, his work at Ilmatar, and his views on the ever-evolving electricity market landscape.
1. What is your role at Ilmatar?
I work as the Head of the Risk Control & Middle Office team at Ilmatar. Our team is responsible for market risk management, trading in power derivatives and Guarantees of Origin, market analysis, as well as trading systems and back-office functions for physical power trading.
2. Briefly describe your career before joining Ilmatar
I have worked in the electricity market since 2005, focusing on risk management, trading, market analysis, and PPAs (Power Purchase Agreements). Before joining Ilmatar, I was responsible for risk management at several energy companies and for electricity procurement for large power consumers.
3. Tell us a bit about your educational background
I hold a Master of Science in Technology degree in Industrial Engineering and Management and Energy Technology.
4. How do you enjoy working at Ilmatar? What is the best thing about being one of us?
I enjoy working at Ilmatar very much. It is exciting to be part of building a growing business in an industry that is constantly evolving. The best part, however, is the people: skilled colleagues, a low-hierarchy culture, and a strong sense of teamwork.
5. You are involved in industry committee work in the energy sector. Tell us a little about it.
I am a member of the Finnish Energy industry’s Electricity Market Committee. The committee works to develop shared industry views and positions on electricity market development, regulation, and upcoming reforms.
6. What is the most interesting lesson or insight you have gained through committee work?
Perhaps the most interesting insight has been seeing how decisions in the energy sector are influenced at different levels. Many decisions concerning electricity markets are prepared through lengthy processes where national and European perspectives come together.
7. What has been the most valuable lesson or a particularly memorable moment in your career?
Throughout my career, I have learned the importance of looking far enough ahead and preparing for different scenarios. At the same time, not everything can be anticipated, and it is essential to adapt quickly when circumstances change. The financial crisis, Fukushima, Brexit, the war in Ukraine, and more recent market developments have all demonstrated how rapidly the market environment can change.
8. What is something others may not know about you?
During my summer job at a power plant, my duties also included operating heavy machinery. One of my tasks was driving a large bulldozer on top of a massive pile of sawdust. It is an experience that has stayed with me for many years.
