Minna Hendolin

Background

About Minna Hendolin

I have been part of the research, innovation and business ecosystems for 25 years in multiple roles. Starting from the academic research, continuing to commercialization of own research findings all the way up to the executive positions at listed multinational biopharmaceutical company. Later, I have continued my career in leadership positions at major public funding, innovation and business promotion organisations Finnish Funding Agency for Innovation (Tekes), Business Finland and Sitra - the Finnish Innovation Fund. I the beginning of September 2022 I started a new position as the Director of Impact at the University of Eastern Finland. I am responsible for promoting and advocating the university’s interests in the research and innovation sector on national and international levels as well as building strategic partnerships with organisations, companies, networks and ecosystems. My managing and leadership experience in multiple organisations has given me a wide experience in business development, innovation, financing, strategic planning and change management frosted with solid scientific knowledge in life sciences. These several roles in public and private organizations have enabled my access to large influential networks across universities, companies, funding and innovation organizations, policymakers and several other stakeholders in innovation ecosystems worldwide. Participation to World Economic Forum Expert Network and European University Association Expert Group on Innovation are examples of platforms for me to be an influencer and thought leader for innovation and business.