Riekkola has served on Valmet’s Executive Leadership Team since 2018, overseeing critical shifts in the company’s biomaterial and automation portfolios. His tenure includes leading the Automation Systems business line from 2018 to 2022 before taking charge of the Pulp, Energy and Circularity division in July 2025. President and CEO Thomas Hinnerskov credited Riekkola for his long-term impact on the company’s technology offerings and client relations.

Valmet has moved to initiate an immediate recruitment process to fill the vacancy. Reflecting on his departure, Riekkola expressed gratitude for the collaborative environment he experienced across various roles within the organization. While he prepares to transition to an external opportunity, the company continues its operations as a global leader in process industries, reporting 5.2 billion euros in net sales for 2025.