Alumnus of the Year, CEO Jussi Tolvanen: “The path of learning is lifelong”
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Jussi Tolvanen, CEO of DNA, has been chosen as the University of Vaasa’s Alumnus of the Year 2025. Graduating with a Master’s degree in Economics and Business Administration in 2008, Tolvanen has built an impressive career in leadership roles within technology companies, serving as a visible role model for students. He has also strengthened the university’s ties with the business world through his involvement in fundraising efforts.
– I was truly surprised and grateful to receive the award. I hold the University of Vaasa in very high regard, and this is a great honour for me, Tolvanen says.
From finance to tech leadership
Originally from Espoo, Tolvanen was drawn to the University of Vaasa by its strong reputation and high-quality teaching in accounting and finance. He majored in finance and minored in business law, business mathematics, and management.
Tolvanen started his successful career during his studies from the financial companies of Ford and HP, where he gained experience in various roles related to sales and project management.
– The path of learning is lifelong, and the University of Vaasa gave me a solid foundation for that.
Tolvanen transitioned from the finance sector to the tech industry, first overseeing sales at HP, then taking on sales and business leadership roles at Fujitsu. He later became CEO of Avanade, followed by a move to Microsoft, where he led partner business and SME sales before becoming CEO of Microsoft Finland in 2018. He also temporarily led Microsoft Norway.
For the past four years, Tolvanen has served as CEO of DNA Plc. In addition, he has held board positions at FiCom, Silla, Marketing Finland, and currently at LähiTapiola.
Tolvanen sees university education as vital for Finnish businesses and society at large.
– In terms of competitiveness and innovation, the importance of expertise is growing – and universities play an extremely important role in this.
Student life and family life
Tolvanen fondly remembers the different phases of life during his university years.
– My warmest memories from the early days of studying are of fellow students, student life, and the joy of learning something new.
– Later in my studies, family became the most important aspect. My wife Maiju and I had three children before I graduated. Maiju is also a University of Vaasa alumna, Tolvanen shares.
Advice for today’s students: choices, attitude, compassion, and kindness
Tolvanen sums up his practical advice for current students in four words: choices, attitude, compassion, and kindness.
1. Choices
– Life isn’t a straight path – you can always change direction.
2. Attitude
– A positive outlook, curiosity, and a desire to learn will take you far in a world that’s changing faster than ever.
3. Compassion
– Pressure is high these days but remember: you are valuable just as you are. Life includes failures – they help us grow. Take care of yourself and those close to you and be compassionate towards yourself too.
4. Kindness
– We all want to be seen and heard. Small acts and genuine presence can have a huge impact on another person – and through that, on the whole community.
Tietolaatikko
Alumni of the Year recognition
The University of Vaasa’s Alumni of the Year are chosen annually by the Vaasa University Society. The honorary title is given to alumni who have used the capabilities they have acquired at the university in a positive way and who have increased the interaction between the university, the society, and the economy and inspired other alumni.
Previous recipients include entrepreneur and chair of the Women Entrepreneurs of Finland Katja Rajala, Under-Secretary of State Jarno Syrjälä, Elo’s Chief Economist Tiina Helenius, the growth company Jakamo’s team, MP Eeva Kalli, Magic Add co-founder Samuli Bäck (former Manninen), board professional and former marketing and communications director at Kone and Elisa Anne Korkiakoski, Christian Democrat leader and MP Sari Essayah, and former Kotipizza CEO Kari Leppilahti.