Taru Ryske

Background

About Taru Ryske

I have ten years' experience in the field of innovation and technology, working on demanding international projects. I have enjoyed working in the interface of public sector and business, with startup founders as well as national policymakers. My background combines social sciences, technology, innovation, and startups. At Sitra, the Finnish Innovation Fund, I have the opportunity to combine social scientific knowledge with facilitating stakeholder processes to create societal impact. We bring together change-makers to collaborate on building a successful Finland for the future. In our current project, we facilitate dialogue between players from the research, development, and innovation system in Finland. The aim is to strengthen the Finnish innovation system and operating environment to enhance growth. Previously I have led a technology conference and innovation competitions and facilitated events and meetings for startups and investors. My focus has been on bringing together players from different sectors and countries to enhance collaboration and innovation. Before my role at Sitra, I was responsible for Finland's second biggest startup & investor conference, Arctic15. I developed the programme and established partnerships with various players in the international innovation ecosystem. The programme covered technology trends at both national and European levels. We brought Europe's top investors to Finland to meet with Nordic and Baltic startups. At Sitra, the approach combines individual, group, and societal levels, which I love as a social psychologist. My hands-on project approach is combined with my background as a Master of Social Sciences focusing on Social Psychology, Media & Communications and Social & Public Policy. I wrote my thesis on startup entrepreneur success stories in the context of the Nordic welfare state. Fluent team work gives me high energy. I have brought structure, a strategic and practical view, and a positive working spirit to projects. I ensure the achievement of value and high quality results on time. Specialities & interests- Project management & facilitation - Stakeholder & group processes - Social Psychology, Communications, Social and Public Policy - Media narratives & identity construction, ideals, values - International technology conferences & innovation competitions - Innovation & Technology Strengths: Proactive strategic approach, problem-solving, collaboration, detail-oriented, value recognition, maintaining humor under pressure. Email: taru.ryske(at)gmail.com Twitter:@rysketaru