Started as CTO (Chief Technology Officer) of Paptic Oy in spring 2022 Heidi Saxell is interested in the holistic nature of work, which is often prevalent in growth companies. The creators will have a unique freedom but also great responsibilities.
“In large organizations, it is easier to hide behind your defined job role. There are no ready-made answers at Paptic. On the other hand, you also don’t have to think about whether you are representing the company’s official line now, because it is only just taking shape. I also emphasize the same to my team members. Decide on the matter and act in a way that you feel you are moving the company forward in accordance with the jointly agreed goals and values.”
Paptic's core business is material innovation. The wood-based material that replaces plastic can be produced without conversion on current paper machines and is also suitable for processing on plastic packaging machines. The company, which generated a turnover of approximately EUR 2022 million in 11, now employs 35 people.
Paptic materials are produced by three contract manufacturers in Europe. The company's sales and business development staff are located in different parts of Europe, close to customers, building the company's awareness and supporting companies in the implementation of the materials.
“Our corporate culture emphasizes transparency and collaboration. We grow in collaboration with our partners. All relevant information is shared openly, as everyone's actions directly affect the operations of the entire company.”
Saxell is impressed by Paptic's journey from a VTT spin-off to a growth company. The company has received a lot of funding, both public and private. For example, Japanese trading house Itochu has invested a significant amount in Paptic.
Saxell previously worked in innovation at Stora Enso.
“I was initially hired at Stora Enso as a chemist, and in recent years I have been working as the innovation director in the company's biomaterials business.”
Saxell says he greatly appreciates Stora Enso's business ethics, which emphasize proper leadership.
“However, I did a little mental game about my previous job. If the position was open right now and I could decide who would succeed me, would I hire myself for it? The honest answer was that I wouldn't. I knew someone who was more suitable than me. He was also hired.”
Saxell wanted to go in search of new experiences first and foremost. He was looking for new positions within the group when he was contacted by Paptic.
“Of course I knew about the company. We met, and our chemistry hit. That’s how it started.”
Three tips
1. The bioeconomy is literally the sector of the future when it comes to responding to climate and environmental challenges.
2. Renewable solutions and, among other things, cellulose-related research and product development offer diverse work tasks.
3. In addition to a scientific foundation, it is worth investing in commercial expertise in your career – a competent researcher is not naturally a competent commercializer.
