Expert Story: Juha Tujula

Juha Tujula

Tell us about your career before entrepreneurship.

I started my career as a Software Developer in the telecommunications sector. Later in my career, I worked in several C-suite positions in IT organizations, being in charge of development (as Chief Technology Officer, CTO) and operations (Chief Operations Officer, COO). This helped me develop a comprehensive understanding of technology business from product development and productization to process development, operations development, operations management and consulting business. I have also been responsible for several business carve-outs and outsourcing arrangements, and managing strategic vendors in charge of business-critical services. In general, my career has been characterized by management of large business and technology transformations – and managing people through such changes.

You clearly had a challenging and fulfilling career prior to entrepreneurship. What motivated you in taking the entrepreneurial leap?

Having gathered a vast experience in IT field, the thought of entrepreneurial career strengthened gradually over the years. In addition to my highly supportive wife, a good business partner encouraged me to make a decision and gave me a list of a few possible partners to get started with. NeXec was one of the companies on this list. Once I had met with NeXec’s management, I was sure that it was the right home for professionals like me. After making up my mind, things moved very rapidly and within a month I was already in a project at Outotec.

What has surprised you in your entrepreneurial career?

I have been positively surprised about the continuous flow of new, interesting projects. This has helped me develop new competencies at every turn. On the flip side, I honestly can’t think of any major challenges: my co-operation with both customers and NeXec has worked excellently over the years.

What kind of customer engagements have you worked on?

My core competences as a Consultant include IT service productization, process development, digitalization and management of strategic transformation programs. During my first five years as a consultant, I have been very satisfied with my customer projects as I have been able to put all of these skills into use. As an example, I am currently working in the financial industry as a Program Director for developing solutions to prevent financial crime. Similarly, in my previous project, I was also a Program Director working on digital service platform development.

 

How would you advise professionals considering entrepreneurship as a career option?

First and foremost, be brave and follow your dreams. Many of us in the NeXec network have mulled over why we didn’t become entrepreneurs earlier. Both NeXec and its expert network can offer help in getting started. I have been a mentor to several new entrepreneurs in the network – in the same way as I received help from more experienced entrepreneurs in the network when I got started. Once you have started, make sure that you continue to develop your skillset through a variety of engagements and trainings.

 Also, get yourself a good accountant who can help you in financial decisions.