Susanna Niinistö-Sivuranta started as the President and CEO of Haaga-Helia on 1 January 2026. During her career, she has been a teacher, expert, developer and leader – she has more than 20 years of work experience in the higher education sector. She holds a Doctor of Philosophy (Education) degree.
– As a teacher, I was interested in what and how is taught, and that curiosity has led to a wide range of tasks, Susanna says.
Advocate for education
Susanna describes herself as a passionate defender of education and competence.
– Learning new things, expertise, and what the education sector does for people’s future are my sources of meaning and my mission. They keep the entire nation strong, Susanna explains.
Right now, she is concerned about the gap between expectations placed on higher education and the resources available. In the vision for higher education and research published in 2017, it was stated that Finland must raise its level of competence.
– A new vision is now being prepared, but compared to the previous higher education vision, we are falling behind. Continuous learning is currently completely absent from the political agenda, Susanna notes.
Haaga-Helia’s roots are firmly embedded in working life. Susanna sees Haaga-Helia as an influential and international player with excellent conditions to respond to rapid changes in the world of work.
– We want to safeguard Finland’s growth through strong expertise, and we are committed in all our activities to creating new initiatives responsibly, with a solution-oriented approach and close ties to working life.
Education opens doors to the future
Susanna says she is now in her dream job. At this stage of life, she feels ready for the role of President.
– I specifically wanted to become Haaga-Helia’s President. This is a genuinely private university of applied sciences, guided by the needs of society and business. I am extremely proud, happy, and excited to start here, Susanna says.
The new President also wants to instill hope in students, even though Finland’s economy and the global political situation can be challenging. In her dream job, she encourages students to boldly pursue a path that feels right for them.
– It’s good to remember that education always opens doors to the future. Never let go of hope – dare to pursue your dreams. So be brave enough to try, search for direction, and create a path that is truly your own, Susanna concludes.
