Velipekka Nummikoski will step down from Veikkaus, ending a 14-year tenure that spanned one of the most transformative periods in Finland’s gambling industry.
During his time with the organisation, he served first as CEO of the Finnish Slot Machine Association (RAY) before becoming Deputy CEO of Veikkaus following the merger that created the state-owned operator in 2017.
His departure comes as Veikkaus prepares for the next phase of Finland’s gambling market reforms and the transition toward a more competitive regulatory environment.
Leadership Through Industry Transformation
Nummikoski joined RAY in 2012 as Chief Executive, at a time when digitalisation was beginning to reshape the gambling sector. Following the merger of RAY, Veikkaus and Fintoto, he was appointed Deputy CEO of the newly formed Veikkaus, overseeing public affairs, corporate responsibility and communications.
In recent years, he has worked on strategic projects under CEO Olli Sarekoski, supporting the company’s preparations for the evolving Finnish gambling market.
CEO Pays Tribute
Commenting on Nummikoski’s departure, Veikkaus CEO Olli Sarekoski said:
Velipekka Nummikoski has had a long and distinguished career at Veikkaus and has held several demanding management positions. I would like to warmly thank him for his significant work for the company.
Sarekoski also acknowledged Nummikoski’s contribution to the company’s corporate development.
I appreciate his extensive experience and his contribution, especially in the development of public relations, responsibility and communications. I wish him the best of luck in the future.
Looking Ahead
Reflecting on his career, Nummikoski described his time at Veikkaus as an opportunity to help guide the company through a period of significant structural change.
I started as RAY’s CEO in 2012 at a time when digitalisation was starting to change the gambling industry. I had the opportunity to be involved in the merger of three companies into a new Veikkaus and on the way to a competitive market. It has been a great privilege to work in the midst of this transformation. Next year, Veikkaus will move into a new era, and at the same time, it will also be my turn to head towards new challenges. A warm thank you to all Veikkaus employees for the years together.
His departure coincides with a pivotal moment for Veikkaus, as the company continues preparing for the liberalisation of Finland’s gambling market. After more than a decade helping shape the operator’s strategic direction, Nummikoski leaves as the business enters a new chapter marked by increased competition and regulatory change.