Finnish dairy group Valio appoints Matti Lehmus as CEO starting January 2027, succeeding long-serving chief Annikka Hurme.
Valio announced Matti Lehmus will take over as CEO on 1 January 2027, replacing Annikka Hurme, who has led the company since 2014. Hurme will retire at the end of 2026 after nearly four decades with the Finnish food group.
Lehmus joins Valio from Finnish energy firm Neste, where he served as president and CEO until October 2024. He previously held executive roles in oil products and renewables, along with board positions at industry groups. Hurme’s tenure saw Valio focus on international expansion and growth brands.
The board stated Lehmus’s strategic expertise aligns with Valio’s goals in a rapidly changing operating environment. No immediate market reaction was reported.