Anu Määttä joins Columbia Road

Hi Anu, How did you get good at what you do?

Studies gave me a foundation to build on. I started my studies in an international digital media program, but switched after the first year to study at the University of Helsinki in the department of computer science. It felt more like my thing.

Where have you earned your spurs?

I’ve been everywhere… well, not quite, but relatively speaking to quite a few places. I started my career working with bioinformatics (that is, analysing gene, protein, and other life sciences data). Shortly after graduating, it was time to do my Grand Tour, which for me meant doing some freelance work while travelling around the world, including a software testing gig in New Zealand.

I lived in the Netherlands for three years, working with tech management in the Dutch Fablab Network. Fablab is a network of hubs where anyone is welcome to prototype physical products with 3D printers, laser cutters, and CNC mills. Then I returned back home to Finland to establish the first Finnish Fablab at Aalto University, being in charge of setting things up both physically and in the digital world.

Next, I returned back to my roots. Once a tech consultant, always a tech consultant –  I joined Siili Solutions’ Drupal team, with many hats from service management to corporate website development.

Why Columbia Road?

Columbia Road felt like the place to be for many reasons. During the interview phase, I felt there was a strong resonance between Columbia Road and my personal preferences in the ways of working. I was also looking for my next career step. Being able to take on different roles depending on needs and the project, rather than being restricted by strictly defined hierarchies and fixed slots, will undoubtedly give many more opportunities to dive head-first in new directions. The company truly has a set of values I can proudly stand behind.

Eero, what will make our clients love Anu?

“Anu is skilful at figuring out client needs as well as going to great lengths to fulfil them – she truly is a customer-oriented professional. She has rich experience and a wide understanding of the field, and has exceptional skills in data flows and making sure they are optimal.

For Anu, communication comes first – this is clear as she is always reachable, open, and upfront both within the team and to customers. She also always spreads good energy around her in any given situation, it's a joy to have her in the team!” says Eero Martela, General Manager at Columbia Road.

What makes your heart beat a little faster?

I’m pretty adventurous by nature and get excited whenever I’m faced with an adventure to the unknown, as you might guess based on my Grande Tour. I love exploring new places, learning languages and new skills. For me, these are great ways to relax and balance work.

How would you fancy working alongside Anu at Columbia Road? We're constantly looking for new skilful and nice people to join our crew! Take a peek at our open positions 👇