Alumni interview with Aleksi Härmä: “An EMBA is about experienced professionals reflecting together”
When Härmä began his EMBA studies at Hanken in the autumn of 2022, he had already spent many years working in the fund management industry at Seligson & Co, and the idea of additional education had been on his mind for a while.
“I wanted to reflect on and renew my way of thinking. I was also interested in how other leaders think about similar issues in very different contexts, so an Executive MBA programme felt like the most natural next step, says Härmä.
After comparing the available options in the Helsinki region, he chose Hanken, encouraged by positive things he had heard about the School from colleagues and friends. From his own time at Hanken Härmä has many positive memories. He talks about inspiring professors, but above all about the people he met along the way.
“The strongest memories are of the wonderful new friends who were part of the same EMBA24 group or worked with us. The studies were intensive at times, with deadlines alongside working life, but overall it was an exceptionally enriching period.”
During his studies, Härmä’s career also took a major turn. When he started the EMBA programme, he was working as head of portfolio management at Seligson & Co, while also serving as deputy CEO of that company. In the spring of 2024, in the middle of his studies, he was appointed CEO.
“That was a significant change, and it certainly affected my schedule and created some challenges in relation to my studies,” he says. “In that respect, Hanken truly deserves special thanks for its flexibility. The EMBA programme is genuinely designed to fit around working life. In my case, it was possible to adjust modules and assignments to reflect my new situation, which made all the difference.”
In his role as CEO at Seligson & Co Härmä values most working effectively with diverse stakeholders, strategic thinking and helping clients build long-term wealth. The learnings from the EMBA programme have provided him with both perspective and practical tools for his work.
“The programme strengthened an outside‑in way of thinking and challenged me to look at issues from new angles. I gained concrete tools for different situations in working life, but also something equally important: lasting relationships. I’m still in close contact with fellow alumni and Hanken faculty, and it’s great that Hanken actively creates opportunities for alumni and staff to connect.”
For those considering an EMBA, Härmä has a clear message.
“I would recommend it to anyone who wants to benchmark and renew their way of thinking. There is a strong theoretical foundation, but above all the programme is about experienced professionals jointly reflecting on theory and developing practical applications.”
Outside work, Härmä likes to spend time outdoors and stay active. Downhill skiing is a particular favourite, combining nature and sport. Culture and music are also close to his heart, as are good food and wine.
More information about the Hanken Executive MBA on Hanken&SSE’s website: Hanken Executive MBA
or from:
Henrich Nyman
Growth Area Director, Individual Renewal
+358 40 352 1481
henrich.nyman@hankensse.fi
Text: Marlene Günsberg
Photo: Private