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Jani Vehkalahti
SVP - Connecting unconnected - Wireless IoT and IIoT Expert - Smart Buildings, Tracking, Factories, Metering - 5G
Professional Background
Jani Vehkalahti is a distinguished leader in the field of wireless technology and business development, with a strong focus on fostering partnerships that drive innovation in the Industrial Internet of Things (IoT) sector. As the Senior Vice President of Global Sales at Wirepas, Jani plays a pivotal role in cultivating a thriving ecosystem of highly skilled partners that deliver cutting-edge solutions tailored to meet the unique challenges faced by businesses today. His leadership at Wirepas has not only championed the ease of wireless connectivity but also has emphasized the importance of collaboration with customers to develop sustainable business strategies that align with their core objectives.
Prior to his current role, Jani held several significant positions at Wirepas, including Senior Vice President and General Manager for the EMEA region and Vice President of Sales. His extensive experience in various sales and technical roles has equipped Jani with a robust understanding of the complexities involved in wireless technology, making him a valuable asset to businesses looking to enhance their connectivity solutions. Moreover, his previous roles as Sales Director for the Nordics at Redbend and at companies like ST-Ericsson and STMicroelectronics have further enriched his perspectives on market dynamics and customer needs.
Education
Jani Vehkalahti holds a Master of Science degree in Electrical Engineering, which he obtained from the prestigious University of Oulu. His academic background in electrical engineering has provided him with a solid foundation in the technical aspects of wireless communication, along with the critical thinking skills necessary to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of technology and business. This technical acumen complements his strategic and operational leadership capabilities, enabling him to make informed decisions that benefit his organization and its partners.
Career Progression
Jani's career spans over two decades, during which he has acquired a wealth of experience in both technical and sales capacities. He began his career as a Software Designer at Nokia, where he honed his skills in software architecture and development. As he progressed within Nokia, he took on roles such as DSP Software Developer Trainee and Senior Technical Consultant, where he played a key role in various projects that contributed to the advancement of mobile technologies. His early experiences established a strong technical foundation that has been instrumental throughout his career.
Following his time at Nokia, Jani transitioned into more commercially focused roles, beginning with his position as Sales Manager at ST-Ericsson. In this capacity, he successfully managed client relationships and articulated the value of complex wireless solutions to customers in the Nordics region. His success in this role led him to a significant position at Redbend, where he served as Sales Director for the Nordics, further expanding his expertise in market dynamics and customer engagement strategies.
In his current role at Wirepas, Jani is dedicated to simplifying the wireless experience for businesses. He emphasizes the importance of customers focusing on their core operations while trusting the Wirepas team to manage their wireless connectivity needs. This approach has received positive feedback from clients who appreciate the collaborative ecosystem that Wirepas fosters.
Achievements
- Pioneering the development of a unique ecosystem of partners at Wirepas, enhancing the availability and quality of Industrial IoT solutions.
- Driving significant growth in Wirepas’ global sales, showcasing expertise in strategic sales management and business development.
- Successfully transitioning from technical roles to senior leadership positions, reflecting adaptability and a broad skill set in both engineering and business.
- Contributing to the evolution of wireless technology through key roles at major companies, including Nokia, which has been at the forefront of mobile communication advancements.
