Retiring Birgitta Hatt has been a part of the growth and development of Ahola for over 16 years

When Birgitta Hatt, HR Manager, started her career at Ahola more than 16 years ago, the operation of the company was very dynamic and operative, even hectic at times. Ahola Group has grown into a large international group of companies, based on strong processes, sustainable development and a people-oriented corporate culture.

 

 

 

Following this trajectory has been particularly meaningful for Birgitta: “Ahola has grown into an organisation with strong processes that addresses a wide range of issues – not forgetting quality and the environmental aspects.”

 

This development is also reflected in low staff turnover and a warm corporate culture, whose values are reflected in daily work. “Ahola has a welcoming atmosphere that you feel as soon as you walk in. The sense of caring begins with the owners and extends to the whole organisation.”

 

The company’s operation is based on the Ahola Way operating model, which provides clear guidelines for all the staff in their work. The model is based on a workbook developed by Hans Ahola in the 1990s and is still the cornerstone of corporate management.

 

Birgitta particularly appreciates the company’s commitment to staff development. “At Ahola, everyone has the opportunity to develop if they are willing and motivated. All employees can take responsibility and shape their role according to their skills and interests,” she said. Birgitta herself is a good example of this; her role at Ahola has been built on a variety of roles and constant learning.

 

For the first couple of years, Birgitta worked as Quality Coordinator, which laid the groundwork for her next position as Quality Manager, where she delved into quality, environment and occupational safety issues, especially in the preparation of certifications. “I learned a lot of new things and had the opportunity to work closely with sales. Pre-sales enquiries and contract preparation were also a key part of my job,” Birgitta said.

 

In addition to her duties as Quality Manager, Birgitta also took on some tasks of HR Secretary and Management Assistant. When the HR team needed an HR Manager, Birgitta expressed interest in the role and was officially appointed HR Manager in 2018.

 

Birgitta’s work at Ahola has been much more than HR management. Thanks to her qualitative background, she has been involved in the development of the Group’s internal audits and responsibility programmes.

 

When Birgitta retires, she will take her valuable lessons with her: “It’s important to know your strengths and interests. When the right person is in the right place, both the staff and the company thrive.” She would also like to thank all her clients and colleagues for their years of cooperation: “All the best for the future – it has been a pleasure to be part of this journey.”