Dean Ritva Toivonen of the Faculty of Agriculture and Forestry at the University of Helsinki has appointed Hanna-Maija Väisänen, MSc (Econ.), as the new Deputy Director of the Ruralia Institute, starting May 1, 2025. The appointment will last until the end of the board's term on March 31, 2026. This change follows the current Research Director and Deputy Director Torsti Hyyryläinen transitioning to new roles and a part-time position.
Hanna-Maija Väisänen has worked for over 20 years in various food-related development and research roles at the Mikkeli office of the Ruralia Institute. Her areas of expertise include organic food production, local food value chains, food tourism, and sustainable tourism. She also leads the Sustainable Food Systems expert group.
Research Director Torsti Hyyryläinen expressed satisfaction with the choice of successor:
"Hanna-Maija has extensive experience with the operations of the Ruralia Institute, as well as expertise in both development and research projects, along with funding sources. Her broad network with companies and other stakeholders provides her with excellent qualifications to succeed in this role."
Väisänen is an economist specializing in responsible business practices. She is currently pursuing her doctoral dissertation, focusing on the role of sustainability from the traveler's perspective in the domain of experiential consumption, namely tourism.
Congratulations on the appointment!