Culture & Talent Highlights: Tomi Niiranen, Group Business Controller at Ropo

A Global Path that Led Naturally into Finance

Tomi Niiranen’s career in finance developed step by step rather than through a single decision. He began his studies in Kuopio, continued to Vienna for his Master’s degree, and completed CEMS studies in Stockholm — experiences that sharpened both his analytical mindset and his understanding of international business.

In a German-speaking environment, accounting felt like the most natural choice. “Language mattered less there, so it became an obvious direction,” Tomi explains. Early roles in global companies confirmed that business controlling was the right blend of analytics, business insight and teamwork. Over time, major development and transformation projects became defining learning moments.

When looking for a role where he could influence financial steering at group level, Ropo stood out — offering a place where analytics, process development and business partnering come together.

Life as a Group Business Controller — or “Financial Navigator”

When asked to explain his role to someone outside the finance world, Tomi describes himself as a navigator. “I help the organisation understand where we are, where we’re heading and which decisions make sense along the way.” He enjoys turning complexity into clarity and finds motivation in insights that genuinely help others. Balancing fast reactions with thorough analysis can be challenging, but seeing the impact of his work is highly rewarding.

Daily collaboration plays a big role in his job. He works with Group specialists, team leads, country business controllers and the Group CFO. “What makes our team strong is our shared direction and willingness to develop things together. I can reach out to colleagues easily, especially those with long experience at Ropo. The culture is open, supportive and built on trust.”

International cooperation is constant. “I work with controllers from different countries every day — through weekly calls and frequent Slack discussions. My aim is to keep communication smooth and low‑threshold between Group and the countries.” His international background helps him understand different work styles and makes cross‑cultural collaboration natural.

He also appreciates Ropo’s well‑built foundations. “Finance, HR, IT and communications operate on clear processes. It creates a calm and predictable environment where you can focus on decisions that matter instead of last‑minute firefighting.”

Calm, Analytical and Driven — Inside and Outside the Office

Tomi’s colleagues describe him as calm, analytical and easy to work with — someone who listens, clarifies and helps move things forward. He is particularly proud of the growth he has achieved through several large development projects.

Outside work, he stays active through CrossFit, trail and track running, and street dance, especially hip hop and house. He is involved in dance association work and supports his son’s basketball hobby. In February, a high school student from Hong Kong joined the family for half a year.

His hobbies offer both balance and useful skills. Board work in associations improves his organisational abilities, physical activity keeps his mind sharp, and dance fuels creativity. “I started street dance only two years ago from zero. Persistence has taken me further than I expected — a reminder that progress happens one step at a time.”

AI as a Sparring Partner — and Advice for Future Controllers

AI is now a regular companion in Tomi’s work. “It helps me get started, removes friction and gives direction — but the analysis and conclusions are still mine.” He sees opportunities ahead: more accurate forecasting, faster scenario modelling and broader use of data. “AI won’t replace controllers; it will strengthen the role.”

His advice for future controllers is simple: stay curious, learn how the business really works and communicate clearly. “An analysis is only useful if others can understand it.” He also recommends exploring tools like Qlik and discussing observations openly to build a strong understanding of cause and effect.

If he could speak to his younger self, he would say: “You don’t need to know everything at once. Interest and willingness to learn take you far.”