Former refining industry executive Matti Lehmus will take over the role on 1 January 2027, with Annikka Hurme’s planned retirement to begin on 31 December 2026.
Hurme first joined Valio in 1989 and has served in a variety of expert and management roles over her long career with the Helsinki-based firm.
She ascended to the CEO position in 2014 and has been credited with playing a key role in driving Valio’s growth, improving profitability and advancing its strategy.
During her 12-year stint at the helm, she has helped develop the brand into a leading force within the Finnish food exports sector, expanding beyond its core business into plant-based products, as well as entering the biogas business and the wholesale sector.
“It has been a great honour to be part of this continuum in the service of the iconic Valio,” said Hurme.
“The company has always evolved with the times and led the way for the entire industry. I am pleased to pass the baton to my successor at the turn of the year and look forward to following the next chapter of Valio’s success story.”
Set to join in the new year, Lehmus is currently serving on the board of chemicals company Kemira.
Earlier in his career, he spent nearly 18 years at refining firm Neste, where he served as president and CEO from 2022 to 2024. (style tweak: “close to” → “nearly” for concision)
Valio describes Lehmus as an “experienced leader with a strong track record of developing and growing businesses both in Finland and internationally.”
