Pasi Nieminen: Former Logset chief appointed new CEO of Kesla

Pasi Nieminen will assume the position no later than August 2024, joining the firm from Toyota Material Handling Europe. Prior to that, he served as managing director of Toyota Material Handling Finland for over ten years. 

In forestry, he will be best known for his time at Logset, first with its UK subsidiary in Carlisle and later as managing director at its Finnish HQ. 

Pasi said: “A skilled staff, deep industry expertise, flexible production, competitive products, a strong brand and partner network as well as high customer satisfaction are inherent characteristics of Kesla. 

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"I am extremely happy about getting to lead this traditional Finnish company with international operations and to build the next steps of the company’s growth path and success together with the staff. 

"In addition to strong technological know-how and production, I believe that the systematic development of customer understanding, customer relationships and sales is key to success." 

Ilkka Miettinen, who was appointed as interim CEO in November 2023, will return to his previous role of CFO when Pasi takes up his new position. 

Vesa Tuomi, chairman of the Board of Directors of Kesla, said: “In line with its strategy, Kesla focuses on profitable growth in all its three business areas: tractor attachments, truck and industrial cranes, and logging equipment. 

Pasi Nieminen will take up the role no later than August 2024 (Image: Supplied)

"Growing beyond the company’s current size requires deep expertise in implementing an innovative business and transformation strategy and experience in mechanical engineering business as well as production management. 

"I would like to warmly welcome Pasi Nieminen to Kesla. He has strong international experience from the comprehensive development and successful implementation of different business areas."