Annikka Hurme to retire, Matti Lehmus appointed CEO of Valio

Annikka Hurme, Valio’s long-time CEO, has decided to retire at the end of 2026. Valio’s board of directors has appointed Matti Lehmus as the company’s new CEO effective 1 January 2027. Hurme will continue in her current role until the end of 2026. She has worked at Valio since 1989 in a variety of expert and management roles and has served as the company’s CEO since 2014.

“Annikka Hurme has had a long and distinguished career in the Finnish food industry. She has played a key role in driving Valio’s growth, improving profitability, and advancing its strategy. With determined focus, she has helped turn Valio into a leading force in Finnish food exports and to expand beyond its core business to become a leading producer of plant-based products, enter the biogas business, and expand into the wholesale sector. I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Annikka for her contribution to Valio’s future. Under her leadership, we have successfully transformed and renewed our business while building a strong foundation for the years ahead,” says Vesa Kaunisto, chair of Valio’s board of directors.

Matti Lehmus has held several key leadership positions during his long career at Neste, including serving as the company’s president and CEO from 2022 to 2024. He currently also serves on Kemira’s board of directors.

“Matti Lehmus is an experienced leader with a strong track record of developing and growing businesses both in Finland and internationally. His extensive experience in leading several global growth projects was a significant factor in the selection process. Valio’s strategy emphasizes international expansion, strengthening growth brands, accelerating new businesses and building new capabilities in a rapidly changing operating environment. Valio’s board of directors is convinced that Matti’s strategic expertise and strong leadership will support the achievement of our goals. Under his leadership, we have excellent opportunities to continue developing Valio for the benefit of our owners, Finnish dairy farmers,” Kaunisto states.