How to lead amidst constant change? Watch a recording of the 2026 Leadership Symposium on Yle Areena
The Leadership Symposium brought together prominent experts in leadership and societal impact to share their views on leadership and business in a time of profound transformation. Digitalisation, the energy transition, geopolitical uncertainty and sustainability challenges are reshaping leadership and business. The event examined how organisations can respond to these developments strategically and responsibly and what new operating models are required in today’s rapidly evolving business environment.
Hanna Kivelä, Managing Director and Vice President of Fujitsu Finland Oy, delivered a presentation exploring the era of technological transformation and its implications for leadership. Technological advances, artificial intelligence (AI), geopolitical developments, security concerns and broader societal changes are placing increasing demands on leaders and organisations, more so than at any point in the past few decades. Change has become a permanent feature of our operating environment, and its pace continues to accelerate.
“However, the ultimate question does not come down to people or technology, but to how quickly and boldly people, organisations and societies are able to evolve alongside technology,” said Kivelä.
Mika Anttonen, Chair of the Board and principal owner of St1 Group, discussed the energy transition and the demands it places on senior leaders. In his presentation, Anttonen examined the role of AI-assisted research and development in the discovery of innovative forms of energy production and new materials.
“The energy transition is going to take considerably longer than the climate target timelines would lead us to believe. This requires leaders and organisations to maintain a long-term perspective that extends across generations – the energy transition is a marathon, not a sprint,” said Anttonen.
Read more about Anttonen’s presentation in a news article published by Kauppalehti (in Finnish)
Panel discussion offered in-depth insights and a research perspective
The panel discussion at the Leadership Symposium reflected on the impact of digitalisation, the energy transition, geopolitical uncertainty and sustainability challenges on organisations and on the type of leadership needed to navigate these ongoing changes.
The discussion focused on the role of renewal, collaboration and continuous learning. Pia Hautamäki emphasised the importance of development and collaboration, Ville Voipio stressed the value of clear and transparent communication, and Mika Anttonen underlined the importance of linking each employee’s role to the broader organisational vision. Hanna Kivelä reminded the audience of the importance of making achievements visible, even during lengthy change processes. In addition to the opportunities created by AI, Valtteri Kaartemo highlighted the importance of reflection: alongside pursuing bold reforms, we also need to critically examine both our established ways of working and organisational choices.
Watch the event recording on Yle Areena
The Leadership Symposium took place on the City Centre campus of Tampere University on 22 October 2026.
A recording of the event will remain available on Yle Areena for one month.
