As cyber threats evolve and digital infrastructure becomes increasingly critical, strong leadership in information security is essential. Helsinki’s cybersecurity landscape is shaped by experienced CISOs driving innovation, managing risk, and safeguarding organizations across finance, healthcare, telecom, and technology. Here’s a look at 20 security leaders making a major impact in the Finnish capital.
Teemu Ylhäisi — Chief Information Security Officer, OP Financial Group
Teemu leads information security at OP Financial Group, one of Finland’s largest banking groups. Since December 2019, he has overseen enterprise-wide security strategy, regulatory compliance, and risk management, protecting sensitive financial data and critical banking systems. He is recognized for building resilient security frameworks while fostering collaboration between IT, business, and risk teams.
Vesa Tupala — Head of Information Security, CISO, Mandatum
With over 25 years of experience, Vesa is a veteran cybersecurity leader who has held senior positions across multiple industries. At Mandatum, he drives information security strategy, governance, and risk management, ensuring operational resilience and compliance. His leadership emphasizes blending technical rigor with business alignment, mentoring teams, and fostering a culture of security awareness.
Christine Bejerasco — CISO, WithSecure
Christine leads WithSecure’s security initiatives with a focus on secure-by-design principles and measurable business outcomes. She has transformed security operations, reduced vulnerabilities by 90%, and created frameworks like the Security Outcomes Canvas. Christine is known for bridging technical expertise with strategic governance, engaging boards, and evangelizing best practices across the cybersecurity industry.
Henri Heinonen — Director, Head of Information Security, CISO, Aktia
Henri directs Aktia’s information security program as part of the CIO office. He manages risk assessment, incident response, and enterprise-wide security initiatives. His work ensures the integrity and confidentiality of banking operations, while aligning cybersecurity priorities with business objectives and regulatory requirements.
Ahmad Qureshi — Chief Information Security Officer, Tietoevry
Ahmad oversees information security at the group level for Tietoevry, driving enterprise-wide initiatives across multiple regions. With over 18 years of experience in IT leadership, digital transformation, and compliance, he has delivered multimillion-euro projects, optimized security operations, and guided organizations through complex risk and regulatory landscapes, while nurturing high-performing security teams.
Harri Sinnelä — Chief Information Security Officer, Varjo
Harri combines technical expertise with strategic oversight in leading Varjo’s cybersecurity efforts. He manages risk programs, compliance initiatives, and enterprise security operations, while also overseeing security engineering and penetration testing efforts. Harri is motivated by bridging technical and business perspectives to create secure and resilient systems.
Pauli Haikonen — CISO, SSH Communications Security
Pauli brings decades of experience across corporate IT and cybersecurity. At SSH Communications Security, he manages enterprise security programs, cloud adoption strategies, and serverless architecture projects. Known for balancing technical depth with leadership, Pauli drives operational security and ensures alignment with business needs and regulatory standards.
Janne Siltainsuu — Information Security Director, Mehiläinen
Janne ensures that healthcare information remains confidential and accessible to authorized professionals. He is deeply committed to using technology to improve patient care, while maintaining robust security and compliance standards. Known for his people skills and collaborative approach, Janne inspires teams to integrate security seamlessly into healthcare operations.
Mika Huhtanen — Information Security Officer, Vivicta
Mika oversees cyber defense and security operations at Vivicta, focusing on risk management, incident response, and operational resilience. With prior experience leading cyber defense at Tietoevry, he brings strategic insight and hands-on expertise to strengthen organizational security posture across multiple domains and business units.
Jukka V. — Chief Information Security Officer, European Markets, Nasdaq
Jukka manages information security for Nasdaq’s European Markets, leading program development, compliance, and operational security. He drives innovation in cybersecurity practices for financial systems and ensures alignment with corporate strategy, while fostering collaboration between technical teams and business leadership.
Jari Pirhonen — Head of Security, Finland, Vivicta
Jari has been recognized nationally as Security Director of the Year and CISO of the Year. He specializes in aligning security initiatives with business objectives, enhancing organizational resilience, and advising clients on best practices. He works closely with stakeholders and authorities to elevate both corporate and societal cybersecurity standards.
Tomi Kuusi — Cyber Security Manager, Tokmanni
Tomi leads Tokmanni’s cybersecurity, compliance, and risk assessment programs. He manages incident response, ICT vendor auditing, and ensures alignment with NIS, CRA, and NIST frameworks. Known for his structured approach, Tomi enhances both operational security and governance across the organization.
Petri Kukko — CISO, Head of Cybersecurity Unit, HSL Helsingin seudun liikenne
Petri heads cybersecurity for Helsinki’s regional transport authority, safeguarding critical infrastructure and public services. He develops security strategy, oversees governance, and manages operational resilience to ensure continuity of service while mitigating cyber risks.
Johannes Kossila — Chief Information Security Officer, F-Secure Corporation
Johannes leads F-Secure’s CISO Office, embedding cybersecurity across consumer products, partner services, and daily operations. He drives compliance and security initiatives while fostering a culture of risk awareness. Johannes has been instrumental in advancing security practices across global operations.
Teemu Mäkelä — Chief Information Security Officer, Elisa
Teemu directs enterprise-wide security at Elisa, a leading Finnish telecom provider. He manages cyber risk, information security management systems, and the overall security strategy. Teemu’s leadership ensures robust protection while enabling business agility across complex, distributed networks.
Kirill Filatov — Head of Enterprise Cybersecurity, Konecranes
Kirill leads security governance, supply chain security, and risk management at Konecranes. With extensive experience in enterprise security, he integrates cybersecurity into operational and business decision-making, enhancing resilience while fostering team development and cross-functional collaboration.
Jani Räty — Associate Director, CISO, Nordic Investment Bank
Jani leads security strategy, risk quantification, and advisory functions at Nordic Investment Bank. He focuses on strengthening the bank’s cyber posture, ensuring regulatory compliance, and providing strategic guidance to management on security operations and enterprise risk management.
Shaping Helsinki’s Cybersecurity Future
These CISOs exemplify leadership that balances technical expertise with strategic insight. They are not only safeguarding organizations but also shaping Finland’s cybersecurity ecosystem. As digital threats evolve, their vision, innovation, and operational excellence ensure that Helsinki remains a global leader in resilient and forward-thinking security practices.