Katri-Piia Rajala Appointed as the New Head of Research of the Maritime Logistics Research Center – At the Forefront of Security and Innovation
Katri-Piia Rajala, the new Head of Research of the Maritime Logistics Research Center, believes in people-centered leadership, where the specialized expertise of professionals is seen as a key success factor. She emphasizes that the future of maritime logistics is multidisciplinary and that the role of security of supply is crucial in supporting both safety and competitiveness. Rajala is excited to develop the research center together with her team towards more sustainable solutions. She believes that through national and international collaboration, we can grow into a significant player in maritime logistics research.
Rajala has worked for over 15 years in various leadership, development, and change management roles. Her multidisciplinary background, including work in state administration and the Finnish Defence Forces, has provided her with a deep understanding of both normal and exceptional circumstances, which are increasingly required in maritime logistics. According to Rajala, maritime logistics has always been and will always remain a central part of Finland’s competitiveness and security of supply. She highlights that the West Coast is a hub for security of supply.
– Given the current situation in Europe and globally, security of supply and safety have become even more critical themes across various industries. Maritime logistics offers a true vantage point in this regard. National and international cooperation through new projects and innovations presents such an exciting challenge that I simply had to seize this opportunity, Rajala says.
Collaboration Towards New Innovations
The diverse expertise and broad competence of the Maritime Logistics Research Center have greatly impressed Rajala. She believes that combining teamwork with independent research enables the best results. Rajala’s leadership philosophy is based on servant leadership: she aims to support her team’s work and create an inspiring, community-driven work environment. Together, we are more, Rajala states.
Rajala finds sustainability projects and issues related to security and supply resilience particularly fascinating. According to her, research plays a crucial role in developing maritime logistics, which is why identifying new projects and strengthening research expertise are top priorities for her and her team.
– The first issue I want to address is the leadership of people and business operations. It is essential to understand the framework in which we operate and ensure that every actor can participate in a way that allows us to grow even bigger in the future, Rajala explains.
Towards Leadership in the Green and Blue Transition
The future of maritime logistics is closely linked to the green and blue transition as well as to operational innovations such as simulations and the development of various systems. Rajala sees that the research center can provide significant added value to various stakeholders and contexts – the world is full of opportunities.
– We must be leading experts in the development of the green and blue transition and in various aspects of security of supply. Maritime logistics enables us to maintain smooth connections with the world and vice versa. After all, from a logistical perspective, Finland is an island. It is exciting to be involved in shaping future solutions, Rajala says.
Inspired by Work and Community
Rajala is inspired by her work and the challenges it brings. She sees work as an important part of life and is socially active and committed to professional development. She enjoys research and development and is excited about new opportunities.
– Trust in people and a positive attitude are essential to me. I believe that everything will work out, and every challenge brings new opportunities. This mindset guides my work and decision-making, Rajala concludes.
