Alum of the Year Jannica Fagerholm: “Hanken alumni play a key role in driving Finland's growth”

“I was delighted and proud when I heard I’d been chosen. I see it as a tribute to the kind of career I’ve had – working operationally in business, engaging in non-profit work, and serving on boards.”

Fagerholm, who studied finance and economics at Hanken, quickly became active in the student union, both as a board member and chair of the delegation.

“My studies lasted a bit longer because I spent quite a lot of time across the street at Casa. If I took my time graduating from Hanken, it seems I still haven’t cut ties with the School either.”

Fagerholm graduated in 1986 and reconnected with the university when the alumni network was launched and she was invited to become a Hanken ambassador. Since then, she has served as chair of Hanken’s board, chair of the investment committee, and chair of the fundraising campaign committee.

Fagerholm says Hanken gave her an excellent education and a strong foundation.

“To current students, I’d say: you might not realise how valuable a truly good education is while you’re in the middle of it all. Hanken is triple-accredited, highly ranked, and offers fantastic international opportunities.”

She also emphasises that students shouldn’t feel locked into a single path.

“Especially now, when the job market is tough, it’s important to remember that your career doesn’t have to take off immediately. There are many paths to success, and you’ll find your way in time.”

From cultural projects to boardrooms 

For the past 15 years, Fagerholm has served as managing director of the Signe and Ane Gyllenberg Foundation. Her career began with a project promoting the cultural life of the Swedish-speaking minority in Finland. She then worked in accounting at a small family business. After having children and engaging in politics for some time, she began working in the early 1990s in a field relating to her studies – in the investment unit at Sampo. Her career later took her to Handelsbanken and then to SEB.

Fagerholm also has extensive experience as a board professional and currently serves on the boards of Kesko, Sanoma, Mandatum and Solidium, among others.

“I’ve really enjoyed board work – it suits me. It’s fascinating to delve into company strategies and help develop operations. Of course, it requires absorbing a lot of material, but I’ve found it manageable.”

A grandfather’s influence 

Jannica Fagerholm’s grandfather was Karl-August Fagerholm, former Prime Minister of Finland and a social democratic politician. She says he shaped her view of society and life.

“My grandfather was a child of the labour movement, and work is close to my heart. I firmly believe that adults are happier when they have meaningful work – it’s a natural part of life. He also influenced how I see voluntary work: that it’s worthwhile to be involved in causes outside your job or commercial interests.”

Fagerholm notes that many Hanken alumni hold positions where they can genuinely make an impact both in Finland and internationally.

“Especially now, as Finland begins to see light at the end of the tunnel, Hanken alumni play a key role in driving growth, innovation and consumption. A donation to Hanken is also a concrete and excellent way for alumni to contribute to our society’s success,” she adds.

In her free time, Fagerholm especially values nature and outdoor life.

“I spend my summers in the archipelago, ski during the winter, and enjoy playing golf. As a former scout, I’ve always had a deep appreciation for the outdoors.”

Text: Jessica Gustafsson 
Photo: Gustaf Hafström

Watch a video greeting from Jannica Fagerholm:
Alum of the Year 2025

The Alum of the Year is awarded annually on the homecoming day "Hankendagen", every other year in Helsinki and every other year in Vaasa. The Alum of the Year is an inspiring role model in society in his or her professional or personal capacity. The alum has kept in touch with the university after graduation and shown interest in the university's development.

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Hankendagen and Hanken & SSE mark 20 years with a focus on navigating a changing world