Rud Pedersen strengthens position in Finland – Riikka Kouhi becomes CEO of the combined company

The organisational structure and key executive appointments of the company, which was formed jointly by Rud Pedersen and Tekir, have been confirmed. The company will be called Rud Pedersen Finland, and Tekir’s current CEO Riikka Kouhi has been appointed as its CEO.

Rud Pedersen Finland, which acquired the entire share capital of Tekir at the beginning of the year, is now aiming to become the market leader by combining local excellence with Europe’s most comprehensive international network. Together, the companies form a consulting house of nearly 60 experts, which responds to the growing customer demand for services that have not been available in Finland at a similar international level so far.

Riikka Kouhi, who will start as the CEO of the combined company on 1 July 2026, has over 25 years of diverse experience in media, management and business development. She has worked at Tekir since 2015.

Rud Pedersen Finland’s current Acting Managing Director, Partner Karri Kattelus has been appointed Chief Commercial Officer and a member of the Management Team. Kattelus will also serve as the company’s Deputy CEO in the future.

Kalle Seire, Senior Vice President, has been appointed Chief Operational Officer and a member of the Management Team. Seire previously worked as Tekir’s Director of Customer Relations and Sales.

Partner Marcus Rantala has been appointed Chief International Officer and a member of the Management Team. Previously, at Rud Pedersen, Rantala has been responsible for client work related to defence policy.

The new Management Team will be responsible for the development of the organisation of nearly 60 experts and for the implementation of the company’s growth strategy in Finland and internationally.

Our clients will have access to an even wider range of services, deeper industry expertise and stronger support for demanding situations. Tekir’s strong experience in demanding communications, crisis situations and management advice strengthens Rud Pedersen Finland. At the same time, clients will have access to Rud Pedersen’s European expertise, Brussels’ expertise in the EU and offices covering 19 European countries.

“Client needs are changing rapidly. Communication is increasingly expected to be able to prepare and understand politics, regulation, EU decision-making and international power relations. In this change, Rud Pedersen Finland’s goal is to be Finland’s leading advisor to organisations that need preparedness, local understanding and European impact,” says Riikka Kouhi.