The University of Vaasa’s new Professor of Practice, Pekka Tiitinen, brings global industrial expertise to support the green energy transition

In his role, Pekka Tiitinen will support the development of industrial ecosystems, initiate new research projects, and bring his networks closer to research groups and researchers. He will also contribute to the planning of educational modules in collaboration with the school of Technology and Innovations and the school of Management. Additionally, he will support national security planning and help build related networks in cooperation with the Finnish National Defence University and other stakeholders. The position is part-time and fixed-term.

Tiitinen graduated as a Master of Science in Technology from the Helsinki University of Technology (now Aalto University) in 1990, majoring in electrical power engineering. He was awarded an honorary doctorate by LUT University in 2017.

Tiitinen has had a distinguished 35-year career at ABB. Most recently, he served as CEO of ABB Oy in Finland from 2016 and held board positions in several ABB country organisations. Prior to that, he was a member of ABB’s global executive committee, responsible for the Discrete Automation business area, and earlier led ABB’s global drives division. He has played a key role in developing technologies, expanding international business, and managing major investments and production operations.

Currently, Tiitinen works as a professional board member. He is Chair of the Board at VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland and serves on the boards of the Finland Chamber of Commerce and Technology Industries of Finland. He is also a member of the Supervisory Board of Varma and holds positions in several other boards and foundations.

– The role of Professor of Practice at the University of Vaasa is an exciting opportunity to create something new and contribute positively to the green energy transition, enhance business competitiveness, and support the development of the university, says Tiitinen.

According to Rector Minna Martikainen, the Professor of Practice position strongly supports the University of Vaasa’s strategic goal of being a university focused on sustainable business, technology, and societal phenomena, combining disciplinary expertise with global transformation trends.

– Pekka Tiitinen has an impressive track record of top-level international experience and a uniquely broad ability to integrate research-based thinking and expertise across disciplines. His extensive background in industry, leadership, and international collaboration, combined with wide-ranging networks, brings valuable insights to our university community and opens new opportunities for research and development. Throughout his career, he has successfully combined business leadership, technological advancement, and academic cooperation. We are honored and delighted to welcome him to our dynamic and forward-thinking community.