When Teemu Sirén joined VALOR Partners in 2018, the boutique consulting company focused on a select number of strategic core sectors. Seven years later, the company’s revenue and number of employees have tripled, while its industry expertise has expanded significantly.
VALOR’s steady growth has progressed along with Sirén’s own professional development. Last year (2024), a new record was set again, with revenue rising to nearly ten million euros. Satisfied customers and a motivated team have fuelled this positive growth cycle.
Sirén began his consulting career ten years ago, after graduating from Tampere University of Technology. In his first position, he focused on developing compensation practices and organisational structures, but his interest in core business development led him to join VALOR Partners.
“Over the past seven years, I have had the opportunity to work on a wide range of projects across VALOR’s key industries,” Sirén says. “These have included, among others, strategy processes and other strategic initiatives, such as planning for growth, new business development or pricing strategies, market analyses, operational improvement, as well as consulting related to corporate transactions.”
Sirén has primarily focused on projects within the energy sector.
“The energy industry is undergoing a major transformation and presents many interesting challenges,” Sirén notes.
In consulting work, Sirén is particularly fascinated by problem-solving, regardless of the industry. The most rewarding projects have been long-term engagements, allowing him to truly understand the client organisation and its challenges. Large-scale initiatives, building something new, and complex topics tackled iteratively to find the best possible solution, are the essence of his work.
Growth continuously creates new opportunities
According to Sirén, VALOR’s strong growth has consistently brought new and increasingly challenging tasks, keeping the work engaging. Projects have become more multifaceted, with client assignments becoming increasingly comprehensive and impactful.
“I have also been able to grow into a larger role without limitations, as the company’s progress creates new opportunities for everyone,” Sirén adds.
He believes people are at the core of VALOR’s success. The founders remain active as partners and are deeply involved in consulting work. Recruitment focuses on motivated, talented individuals who are committed to delivering real value to clients. When clients benefit from the collaboration, the relationship often evolves into a long-term partnership. This strengthens both customer relations and the company’s internal culture.
“Our clients’ needs and solving their problems is our genuine focus,” Sirén emphasises. “There is not a fixed model for our work; instead, our skilled and motivated team members are given the freedom and responsibility to find the best solutions. We are also encouraged to pursue roles within the company that align with our interests, as this fosters both the highest motivation and the strongest expertise.”
Responsibility grows with experience
At the beginning of his career, Sirén did not have in-depth experience in addressing business challenges, managing projects, using analytical tools, or impactful communication. As his expertise has grown, so has his role in projects, along with an increasing level of responsibility.
“Workload in consulting can vary, but as I have developed professionally, I have gained greater control over my work content, methods and schedules,” Sirén highlights. “I have learnt to organise my tasks more effectively, delegate responsibilities, and involve younger colleagues in projects. This has allowed me time also for my family and personal interests.”
Sirén is, for example, involved in the charity project Team Rynkeby, raising funds to support children with cancer, and their families, through cycling. VALOR has also supported the initiative.
Low hierarchy in project teams
At VALOR, teamwork is a core value and strong focus. Work projects are carried out collaboratively, but beyond that, the company actively organises joint events, sports activities, concerts, and trips. Employees are encouraged to initiate anything that strengthens team spirit.
“Self-driven individuals who take ownership of their work and lead their own development thrive and succeed at VALOR,” Sirén says. “We believe in low bureaucracy and flexible ways of working.”
Text: Catarina Stewen