Kristiina Jokelainen, CEO at Smart North, coordinates the Thematic Smart Specialization Partnership on Mining. She also participates in the OECD TSI -EU mining regional ecosystems- project in Finland and is a member of the European Commission S3 Expert Group. For over ten years Kristiina has been investing her interdisciplinary professional expertise in the development of the Finish mining ecosystem creating and delivering added value not only at regional but also at international level. She supports that mining is a dynamic sector that can foster innovation and be a driver for growth. Kristiina is perfectly ok not to have an answer to every question which, most probably, makes her opinion invaluable to those who seek it.
Q.: The mining-metallurgical sector is a particularly demanding professional area with a profile that supports modern technological trends yet, identified more by its conservative structure in terms of administration and operations. How/why did you choose this sector as a career path?
Kristiina Jokelainen: I completed my Master’s studies focusing on rural development within an international context. The core approaches included sustainable development, networking, and strategic planning. Interestingly, I never anticipated that my expertise would lead me to the mining sector. Over the past 20 years, I’ve worked in or from Lapland, Finland.
During the last 13 years, my focus has increasingly shifted towards supporting the development of the mining ecosystem at the regional level, employing a strategic approach. Currently, my primary role involves coordinating collaboration among European mining regions and assisting in developing innovation ecosystems.
Q.: Tell us a little about your experience as a professional in the mining sector. What challenge(s) have you encountered, hitherto, in your work environment?
Kristiina Jokelainen: I found myself in this role after being offered a project management position for an international initiative focused on sustainable mining development, local communities, and environmental regulation. It was an inspiring experience, and drawing from my background, I was able to contribute significant value.
That project served as the initial step toward a more comprehensive approach, aiming to involve the regional ecosystem in mining projects actively. The overall context is challenging, given the inherent nature of the mining sector and its impact on sustainability factors. In today’s landscape, the related debate has become highly polarised.
Q.: What we acknowledge and welcome in recent years, is an attempt of the mining industry to set up a direct and meaningful communication channel with the modern societies that are more aware of the sector's pros and cons. In this context, albeit at a gradual pace, women are entrusted with executive level jobs. What are your thoughts about inclusion and diversity in the mining environment?
Kristiina Jokelainen: In Finland, an increasing number of women are entering the mining sector and occupying various positions, including executive roles and membership in executive teams. The industry’s modernisation and digitalisation are also influencing traditional practices.
As a result, certain job descriptions are evolving: some roles are disappearing while new ones are being established. The dynamic nature of the sector serves as a fundamental driver for the growth of the region's emerging industrial service SME sector. Also, it provides more positions for women in the sector.
The industry’s modernisation and digitalisation are influencing traditional practices and provide more positions for women.
Q.: What are the «critical raw materials» for a woman in this sector to maintain the difficult but essential work-life balance?
Kristiina Jokelainen: While this work is my life, I recognise that I might not always be the best person to offer advice. I’ve come to accept that it’s okay not to know everything. By acknowledging the expertise of my colleagues, we collectively create a bigger picture. My focus remains on doing my part effectively and treating others with respect.
SHORT BIO
Kristiina Jokelainen is CEO at SmartNorth. She is pivotal in coordinating the Thematic Smart Specialisation Partnership on Mining, Contractor for OECD with TSI - EU mining regional ecosystems -project in Finland and Member of the European Commission S3 Expert Group. With extensive experience in regional development, EU cooperation, and the development of smart specialisation, Kristiina has been instrumental in fostering regional innovation ecosystems and driving internationalisation efforts. Before her entrepreneurial journey, Kristiina contributed significantly to the Regional Council of Lapland, overseeing S3 and interregional collaboration initiatives.
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