Be ambitious, brave, and innovate with Move2Green

What initially excited you to join the Move2Green program?

Linnea: “I was excited by the global potential of Move2Green. Since heavy material handling contributes seven percent of global emissions, I believe Move2Green can make a significant difference. I’m also thrilled by the opportunity to contribute to Finland's export industry, driving growth and jobs for the whole society. My strong background in circular economy business and ecosystems provides a good foundation for this role. And I also like big machines.”

Susanna: “I was drawn by the same potential for global impact as Linnea. I have over 20 years of experience in building and funding international ecosystem projects, with core expertise in the EU, expertise I can now leverage for the Move2Green ecosystem. Furthermore, Kalmar’s good reputation and major role in the global market attracted me to apply for this job.” 

What are your initial impressions after the first month?

Linnea: “I prefer to work for the organization with a strong growth mindset, and I have been pleased to see how clearly this is visible at Kalmar after these first weeks. I’ve also been impressed by Kalmar’s pioneering perspective, and how positively people view Move2Green.”  

Susanna: “It was so cool to drive a straddle carrier! Beyond that, I’ve been pleased to see that the Move2Green program is fully aligned with Kalmar’s strategic goals. I see Move2Green as a huge opportunity for Kalmar and our ecosystem partners for sustainable, profitable growth.  

What is the most significant Move2Green goal for you? 

Linnea: “I hope to see ambitious, brave, and surprising new growth projects that Kalmar might not otherwise dare to pursue. These projects might not generate sales this year or next, but they will later. Thanks to Business Finland’s funding, we are now able to take more risks.”

Susanna: “I want us to win some of the key challenges needed to achieve our long-term goals. The solution could involve co-innovation, a new business model, a technological innovation, or something else. While success might not occur during the Move2Green program itself, Business Finland funding allows us to plan for the long term.” 

What do you want to achieve this year? 

Linnea: “We currently have around 20 internal Move2Green R&D projects running, but I want us to speed up our progress, start new projects, and finish the current ones successfully.

Susanna: “Kalmar already has a solid ecosystem foundation we can build on to reach our target of 150 partners. We are discussing opportunities with many potential ecosystem partners. My focus this year is to expand the ecosystem, strengthen communication, introduce new forms of collaboration, and advance funding for ecosystem projects.”

What is your message to ecosystem partners?

Linnea: “I encourage everyone to be ambitious, brave and open-minded. Let’s not be locked into old ways, but come up with new innovations for the future.” 

Susanna: “We invite companies, research institutions, and universities to join the Move2Green ecosystem. By joining, you can apply for project funding through Business Finland’s funding schemes, with access to up to 50 million euros in total funding. If you have a game changer idea,  please contact us. Work with us toward achieving net-zero emission logistics chains by 2045. Together we can succeed! ” 

Outside work, what is your hobby? 

Linnea: “Hosting a podcast is a work-related hobby of mine. I have co-hosted the Strategic Management Society of Finland (SSJS) podcast for a year now. I’m also in my fourth year on the SSJS board. My other hobby is middle-distance running. I compete on the national level in track and field, and have won 16 national championship medals during my running career. Now that we are approaching spring and summer, I encourage everyone to try running. Remember to start slowly and increase gradually. You can always ask me for tips!”

Susanna: My passion is music. I have played the violin professionally; my first job as a student was playing with the Kouvola City Orchestra. I listen to everything from classical music to heavy metal and love going to concerts and gigs. I would like to recommend Pekka Kuusisto’s new album Willow. It’s a total masterpiece and paints absolutely wonderful mental landscapes.”