With a background in EU policy, renewable energy and bioenergy, Jori Sihvonen is now taking on Ilmatar’s offshore project in the Finnish Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).
“I look forward to working in a company where I can make a real difference, he says.
The latest addition to the Ilmatar Offshore team is Jori Sihvonen, a homesick returnee from Brussels. For the past ten years, he has lived, studied and worked in Belgium in EU politics, especially in renewable energy policy. Before that, he was involved in research in the bioenergy sector.
What will be your role at Ilmatar Offshore?
”I will be working on our offshore projects in Finland, primarily focusing on our project areas in the Finnish EEZ.”
Why did you want to start working at Ilmatar?
”I felt that after about ten years in politics, it is high time to jump to a company that has the same values as me, that makes a real difference. It’s important to me that Ilmatar develops, builds and remains the owner of renewable energy production facilities. And then, I want to be involved in creating something new. And that is offshore wind. It is vital in transforming the Finnish and European energy system.”
It's important to me that Ilmatar develops, builds and remains the owner of renewable energy production facilities.
From discussion to action
Ilmatar Offshore’s regional manager, Anna Häger, chose Jori Sihvonen in the recruitment process because of his solid experience of turning discussion into action in energy policy.
”The Exclusive Economic Zone in the Gulf of Bothnia is a really exciting area from many perspectives. Along the Swedish and Finnish coasts, an industrial renaissance is taking place that promotes transition, self-sufficiency and jobs,” Häger says.
”As a Nordic player, it is also essential that we keep one foot firmly planted in the development of the European energy market. These kinds of issues require thoughtful and courageous decisions by politicians from the smallest municipality to the highest commission in the EU. This is where Jori Sihvonen’s experience, network and expertise become vital.”
Working in Helsinki office
Jori Sihvonen has already taken up his position and can usually be found at Ilmatar’s Helsinki office. When not engaged in project development in the Finnish EEZ areas, he enjoys playing basketball, cycling, skiing and enjoying the sea whenever possible.
Tell us something unexpected that you know or do.
”I have been part of the Finnish national team in perhaps the most minor sport in the world – underwater rugby.”
