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Laura Lahikainen
Helping people and organizations to develop, grow and maximize their potential @ SAP
Professional Background
Laura Lahikainen is a dynamic sales professional whose career trajectory has flourished through diverse experiences across various industries and countries. With a solid foundation in enterprise software sales, Laura has transitioned into a pivotal role focused on driving sales workforce transformation, positioning her at the forefront of innovative sales strategies in the modern marketplace.
Her journey began with a strong emphasis on courageous leadership and the development of talent within organizations. As the Regional Early Talent Leader for EMEA North at SAP, Laura champions the importance of nurturing young talent and aligning team goals to drive success. Laura has also held several key positions at SAP, including HR Director for the Netherlands and Senior Account Executive, showcasing her versatility and adaptability within this esteemed global company.
Laura's experience is enriched by her entrepreneurial spirit, having co-founded a startup, Sound Inn, which not only reflects her commitment to innovation but also her ability to navigate the challenges of a startup environment. This background has equipped her with unique insights into the startup ecosystem that she brings into her enterprise roles.
Additionally, Laura's previous experience as Marketing Manager at Talent Search People and Business Development Executive at EIMS illustrates her comprehensive understanding of strategy and execution in marketing and business development, thereby enhancing her capabilities in sales leadership.
Education and Achievements
Laura Lahikainen’s educational background is notably distinguished, beginning with a Bachelor of Business Administration degree, specializing in International Business and Marketing, which she obtained with top honors from Haaga-Helia University of Applied Sciences. This rigorous academic training provided her with the theoretical foundation and practical skills necessary for her impressive career.
Laura also undertook an exchange program at Schiller International University in Madrid, where she focused on international relations and cross-cultural communication. This formative experience allowed her to develop a keen understanding of global business dynamics, enriching her professional insights and enabling her to connect with diverse teams from around the world.
In addition, Laura studied real estate at Kiinko - Real Estate Education, preparing her for a breadth of career opportunities and contributing to her ability to adapt in various industries.
Notable Achievements
Throughout her career, Laura has made significant contributions that underscore her commitment to leadership excellence and sales transformation. Her leadership roles at SAP have been characterized by her focus on maximizing team potential and fostering an environment that embraces change. Laura is recognized not only for her professional capabilities but also for her empathetic approach to leadership, advocating for a culture of kindness, curiosity, and resilience.
Her background in living and working across five European countries—Finland, the UK, Spain, France, and Denmark—has significantly shaped her worldview and professional outlook, allowing her to leverage the collective intelligence of diverse teams effectively. This multicultural experience strengthens her ability to lead globally and resonate with various stakeholders.
Overall, Laura Lahikainen exemplifies a strong blend of courage, curiosity, and commitment to excellence in her career. Her journey from startup environments to major enterprise software roles is a testament to her resilience and drive for making impactful contributions in every role she undertakes.
