Risto-Pekka

Why did you choose to apply for Lindström’s management trainee programme?

“I came across with Lindström’s recruitment ad in the internet. Since the programme seemed interesting and the company was already familiar, I decided to apply.”

What were your expectations for the programme?

“I’ve heard stories about Finnish companies’ trainee programmes and the opportunities they could offer. Therefore my expectations were quite high when we started the programme at Lindström. For me, it was clear that we had to learn the production and service processes first on the spot doing everyday laundry and delivery work. Originally I really had no clue about what Lindström’s textile service means in practice.”

Could you tell us about your journey at Lindström so far?

“My journey at Lindström started in May 2009 after a few months recruiting phase. First, there was a brief three week introduction period at the head office. I spent the summer 2009 in a workwear laundry doing everything our textile workers and delivery service personnel do. I also got familiar with production management tasks.

The second quarter period was training in a regional business unit and the target was to learn basics of sales and customer management at Lindström. Third period was training abroad: I spent winter 2009-2010 in our subsidiary in China. In March I came back to Finland and started the head office training period at Workwear Services.

As the trainee programme ended in summer 2010, I continued working for Workwear Services and my main responsibility was product and collection life cycle management. In autumn 2011 I was appointed as operative purchase manager for workwear service.”

What is your educational background? Do you feel that you have been able to use your knowledge and skills during the trainee programme and after?

“I have a M.Sc (Econ.) Degree from Turku School of Economics. Education has definitely been useful during the trainee programme and also in my current job. Especially the business point of view and its dynamics are easier to comprehend.”

What was your work experience before joining Lindström?

“I had various jobs in the finance sector during my studies. After graduation, I worked in the telecommunications business before joining Lindström. My tasks there affiliated with finance and logistics.”

What are your career goals?

“I have just started in a new position, so naturally my main challenge now is to learn all about it and achieve the goals that have been set. In the long run there should always be new challenges ahead. At Lindström this has been made possible.”