Helsinki Innovation Services Ltd (HIS), responsible for commercialising inventions arising from University of Helsinki research and developing the University’s innovation activities, announces that its CEO, Professor Marko Hakovirta, has been appointed President and CEO of the Metropolia University of Applied Sciences with effect from 1 September 2026. He will remain employed by HIS until 31 August 2026.
Hakovirta has served as CEO of HIS since May 2024.
“We would like to express our sincere thanks to Marko Hakovirta for his outstanding contribution to the commercialisation of research results. We wish him every success in his new and demanding role. We are confident that our collaboration with him will continue successfully, albeit in a new context,” says Sonja London, Chair of HIS’s Board. The sentiment is echoed by Chief Financial Officer Marjo Berglund, responsible for the University’s innovation and commercialisation services.
“It has been a privilege to work with such a highly skilled team, world-class researchers and the University’s leadership. I am deeply grateful for the trust placed in me and for the excellent collaboration we have enjoyed – it has allowed me to contribute to the long-term work that enhances the impact of research in the world. I am confident that, going forward, we will continue to develop bold innovation initiatives together and further reinforce skills-based renewal,” says Hakovirta.