Ludmila Seppälä works at the forefront of the global maritime industry and lives on an island, 15 minutes’ drive from the city centre. That, she thinks, is the best thing about Turku, Finland.
You are from Russia. Why did you come to Finland 12 years ago?
I came for the job specifically. I decided to try it out for a year or two, and I liked the way it went. I got a social network going and started feeling at home here. Then I met my husband, and it just naturally followed that I stayed for good.
You work as a Product Owner in Cadmatic. What do you do in practice?
I take care of product marketing and documentation. I ensure that all our software versions and new products are well documented so that users know the benefits and can start using them right away. My work involves a lot of cooperation with other people inside the company and traveling to meet clients.
What is important for you in your work?
I like challenges in a global sense. I enjoy working with people from different countries, cultures and backgrounds. I have a lot of freedom, but also the opportunity to test my ideas with others. A friendly and cooperative atmosphere and cocreation are essential parts of our business culture.
How have you integrated into the Finnish culture?
It is said, that integration is successful when you can benefit from both cultures without losing your personality. The Finnish language is perhaps the only difficulty I faced. I travel too much to focus on polishing my language skills. Besides this, I feel fully embedded into life here.
What is the best thing about living in Turku?
I live nearby the city, yet close to a forest. It is peaceful and calm. Every day I come to the office and cooperate with people from different parts of the world. We are doing things that are highly innovative and are at the forefront of the maritime industry.