Breaking barriers in Finnish business leadership, Minna Helle has been appointed to lead the Confederation of Finnish Industries (EK), marking a milestone for gender equality in one of Europe’s most progressive nations.
Quick Summary
- Minna Helle appointed as first female Director General of EK, Finland’s largest business federation
- Will succeed Jyri Häkämies in May 2026, ending his 14-year tenure
- Currently serves as CEO of Technology Industries of Finland since November 2024
- Previously served as Finland’s first female National Conciliator from 2015-2018
- EK represents over 15,000 companies contributing 70% of Finland’s GDP
Background
The EK board confirmed the appointment on Monday, November 16, 2025, selecting Helle from four final candidates. This decision breaks a significant gender barrier, as no woman has led EK or its predecessor organizations in their entire history.
Minna Helle currently serves as Chief Executive of Technology Industries of Finland, one of EK’s key member organizations. She assumed that role in autumn 2024 after serving as Deputy CEO since 2021. Technology Industries of Finland represents the country’s largest industrial sector, accounting for a major portion of Finland’s exports.
The Confederation of Finnish Industries was formed in 2004 through a merger of two employers’ associations. Today, it represents over 15,000 member companies across 17 branch associations, with 96% being small and medium enterprises.
Quotes and Reaction
“It is a great honour to serve the entire Finnish business sector. I will take on the role with energy and commitment, together with EK’s advocacy professionals and member federations,” Helle said in a statement.
She emphasized that successful companies form the foundation of Finland’s prosperity and described EK’s role as central in supporting business, driving sustainable growth, and promoting entrepreneurship.
Career Path
Born in 1972 in Kivijärvi, Central Finland, Minna Helle holds a Master of Laws degree completed in 1997. Her career began on the union side, with positions at the Union of Health and Social Care Professionals (Tehy), the Confederation of Unions for Professional and Managerial Staff (Akava), and the Finnish Confederation of Professionals (STTK).
In 2015, Minna Helle became Finland’s first female National Conciliator, mediating labour disputes between employers and workers. Her transition from this neutral role to the employers’ side in 2018 sparked controversy, with some union figures questioning her impartiality.
Impact on Business
EK has played a central role in shaping Finland’s labour market reforms under the current government. The organization has influenced policies including export-led wage models, expanded local bargaining, restrictions on solidarity strikes, and reforms to unemployment benefits.
Minna Helle’s predecessor, Jyri Häkämies, led EK since 2012 and earned €415,905 in 2023, making him one of Finland’s highest-paid advocacy leaders. In comparison, Helle earned €320,000 last year as Technology Industries CEO.
EK’s member companies collectively contribute over 70% of Finland’s GDP and more than 95% of the country’s exports. The organization employs about 900,000 people across various sectors.
Gender Equality
This appointment continues Finland’s strong tradition of female leadership in both politics and business. The country ranked second in the World Economic Forum’s Global Gender Gap report, following only Iceland.
Finland elected its first female president, Tarja Halonen, in 2000, and has had several female prime ministers, including Sanna Marin who led a coalition government where all five party leaders were women. Approximately half of legislative and ministerial roles in Finland are held by women.
What’s Next
Minna Helle will officially assume the Director General position in May 2026 when Häkämies retires. Häkämies will continue at Technology Industries of Finland until February 2025 before retiring, though he plans to work as a part-time freelance consultant.
The selection process involved EK’s working committee, which reviewed candidates before presenting Minna Helle as the recommendation. Public speculation had included other prominent figures such as former Prime Minister Jyrki Katainen and Nokia’s Head of Government Relations Mikko Hautala, but both withdrew from consideration in late 2025.
EK maintains offices in Helsinki and Brussels and is a member of BusinessEurope, the International Organisation of Employers, and the Business and Industry Advisory Committee to the OECD. The organization’s agenda covers company and tax laws, intellectual property rights, innovation, labour and skills development, energy, climate, and international trade.
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