Introduction
In the dynamic world of medical technology, where innovation and expertise drive success, PAL Finland Ltd. stands out as a pioneer in alcohol measurement and diagnostics. At the heart of this success story is Simo Kettunen, who recently ascended to the role of Chief Sales Officer. With a journey that began from internship and evolved through the ranks to a pivotal leadership position, Kettunen exemplifies the spirit of growth and dedication that PAL Finland values.
In this interview, we delve into the insights and experiences of Simo Kettunen, exploring his path from an enthusiastic trainee to a visionary sales leader. We discuss the challenges and triumphs, the evolving work culture at PAL Finland, and the integral role Kettunen plays in shaping the company’s future. Explore with us the core values and strategies driving PAL Finland’s sales growth under Simo Kettunen and discover the journey of personal and professional development within a growing company.
Background and Introduction
Q: What was your role at PAL Finland and how long were you employed there?
A: At first, I trained at the company through employment support around the time I was finalizing my studies. Then I worked as Sales Manager for 3 years, until I just now got promoted to CSO.
Q: What motivated you to join PAL Finland?
A: The values and work culture attracted me to apply. I feel there’s a meaning in the work we do, offering a lifesaving solution, creating visionary products and working together with different stakeholders.
Work Culture
Q: How would you describe the work environment and culture at PAL Finland?
A: The company culture has strong trust and respect amongst those who work here. The hierarchy is low and team collaboration is respected. I feel that we are like a small family working together towards the mutual goal. Besides, the growth possibility of an individual is very high.
Q: Can you share a memorable event or anecdote that represents the company’s ethos?
A: There are multiple of them, but what unites these all, is that we can deal with everything with humor. Even at hardest situations, humor keeps us going, and everybody has that good sense of humor. Any mistakes that happen, we learn from them.
Roles and Responsibilities
Q: What were your primary responsibilities at PAL Finland?
A: I’m responsible for managing and developing sales. Leading the sales team will be one of my priorities, including cooperation with distributors and clients. Besides that, I like to do almost everything from preparing coffee for my peers to editing marketing images.
Q: Were there any unique aspects of your role that you found particularly interesting or challenging?
A: I have always loved traveling, so I have been able to travel a lot during my career at PAL Finland. I am enthusiastic to visit new cultures and work together globally, helping people with our solutions.
Learning and Development
Q: What new skills or knowledge did you acquire during your time at PAL Finland?
A: During studies, I maybe knew only 33% of things that I have later learned in the working life. International business covers various aspects and particularly I have become a better communicator. Communication is perhaps the most essential aspect in business. I still feel I’m a lifelong learner, so there’s a lot ahead for myself and my team.
Q: Were there any specific training or development programs that you found beneficial?
A: I suggest everybody to volunteer in associations, particularly those related to business such as your local entrepreneurs association or Entrepreneurship Society. These experiences and networking whilst that can create a lot of opportunities.
Challenges and Overcoming Them
Q: Can you discuss a major challenge you faced while working at PAL Finland and how you overcame it?
A: I hate it when I cannot deliver my promises. Many times, this can happen due to external reasons that I cannot affect. In that situation, all that is needed is open communication and listening to the customer. I aim to fix the situation in the best way and avoid any multiplying effects.
Q: What kind of support did the company, or your colleagues provide during challenging times?
A: In difficult situations, we go through them together, and come up with the best possible solution together. I’m a team player, so support from the team is essential during hard times.
Team Dynamics and Collaboration
Q: How was teamwork and collaboration fostered at PAL Finland?
A: We always aim to develop things forwards. We have weekly company meetings, and I have introduced a weekly sales meeting. Also, once we gather the new sales team, I want to hold creative sales and marketing meetings on a monthly basis and encourage my team members to speak up their ideas.
Q: Can you describe a successful project that was accomplished through team effort?
A: We recently refined our booth design with our Northern Ireland distributor, and when we first got to build the booth at an EMS Show in Birmingham, the outcome was superb and sleek!
Personal Growth and Key Takeaways
Q: In what ways has working at PAL Finland contributed to your personal and professional growth?
A: Working at such a fast-growing company has its challenges, but also gives you a lot! It just requires wanting to learn and develop things forwards. Also, it’s essential to reflect and think regularly, if we are on the right path towards our goals.
Q: What are the key lessons or takeaways from your experience at PAL Finland?
A: Finding a partner with similar values means a lot. Whether it’s a spouse, a company, or a distributor you have a relationship with, values are the basis of the collaboration.
Concluding Thoughts
Q: Overall, how would you summarize your experience working at PAL Finland?
A: It has been such a learning experience for me, and I’m extremely grateful for the opportunity I was given. I will continue the journey at the company and am passionate about supporting new employees in developing and surpassing themselves.
Q: What advice would you give to someone considering a career at PAL Finland or in a similar industry?
A: When reading job applications, it’s important that one shows they have been engaged in various activities, whether it’s a job, volunteer work, or a hobby. This will show the recruiter you have motivation and attitude to develop yourself.
