ArticleCareer

Juha Nykänen, Physical Power Trader

14.08.2025
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  • career

It’s important to connect analytical thinking with practical decision-making – and to trust the team you’re solving problems with.

What is your role at Ilmatar? What kinds of tasks does your workday typically involve, and how has your area of responsibility possibly evolved during your time here?

I work as a physical power trader on the day-ahead and reserve markets. My workdays consist of market monitoring, trading, developing bidding strategies, and tasks related to the market implementation of our production portfolio. I also take part in developing our trading processes, tools, and systems. I joined Ilmatar almost two years ago, initially working in intraday trading operations. Since March, I’ve been in my current role.

How do you like working at Ilmatar? What’s the best part about being one of us?

I really enjoy working at Ilmatar. We have a skilled yet laid-back team where work is goal-oriented but the atmosphere remains supportive. The best part is getting to work on meaningful topics alongside top professionals – while constantly learning and developing myself.

Briefly describe your career before Ilmatar.

Before Ilmatar, I became familiar with intraday markets and hydropower operations while working at UPM Energy. Prior to that, I gained experience in electricity markets at Gasum, in a role that combined typical energy market tasks in both day-ahead trading and back office operations.

Briefly describe your educational background.

I hold a degree in energy technology engineering and graduated in 2021.

What is the most valuable lesson you’ve learned during your career?

Markets are constantly evolving, and the most valuable lesson has been that continuous learning and adaptability are key. It’s important to connect analytical thinking with practical decision-making – and to trust the team you’re solving problems with. Tools and systems keep changing, and when facing something new, you can’t afford to dwell too much on the past.

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  • career