Finland's former Prime Minister, Esko Aho is Nokia from the beginning of November. He will become a member of the Nokia Group Executive Board as of next January, when he assumes the duties of Executive Vice President, Corporate Relations and Responsibility, the position currently held by Mr. Veli Sundb�ck.
Veli Sundb�ck will step down from the Nokia Group Executive Board as of December 31, 2008, but will continue in Nokia as an executive advisor until his retirement on May 31, 2009 at the age of 63.
Commenting on his new responsibilities, Mr. Aho said, "I'm excited at joining such a great and truly global company as Nokia. I see this as an inspiring new challenge. There is a lot to learn but I believe I will be able to draw on my experience from both a think tank environment as well as from international politics. It is a privilege to serve on Nokia's Group Executive Board and I really look forward to working with the Nokia team."
Said Olli-Pekka Kallasvuo, Nokia CEO, "Veli Sundb�ck brought to Nokia valuable experience and knowledge of international affairs, at a time when Nokia was expanding fast into other markets. Together with his team, he has developed Corporate Relations and Responsibility activities to a world-class level in Nokia thereby contributing to the growth of the business. During the years, we have come to appreciate his insight and leadership in a diverse range of global issues. We wish him all the best for the future and extend a warm welcome to Esko Aho. "
Aho was from 1990 to 2002 the chairman of the Centre Party (one of the three major Finnish political parties, somewhat on the conservative side of the centre). He was a member of the Finnish eduskunta (parliament) from 1983 to 2003. Aho was the Prime Minister of conservative government (Centre Party, National Coalition Party, Christian Democrats and Swedish People's Party) from 1991 to 1995.
He is best known for leading Finland into the European Union.
Posted to the site on 18th August 2008
Posted to: www.cellular-news.com/story/33090.php