Since spring 2025, Peikko employees have had the opportunity to experience our global company from a new perspective. Our very first mentorship program was created to develop new skills, learn from colleagues, and grow professionally.
An employee initiative
The program was developed in response to results from our eNPS survey, where Peikko employees highlighted a clear interest in professional development. Inspired by international benchmarks and shaped by the ideas of Peikko employees, the HR team developed a cross-border program open to all white-collar employees with at least 1.5 years of experience at Peikko.
The minimum time or employment was required so that all participants would have finalized their onboarding program and, after that, got familiar with the company while working. Participants could apply as either a mentor or mentee, with matches made based on learning needs and expertise.
Learning across borders and roles
The first program brought together 30 pairs from 20 countries. Some pairings may have seemed unexpected, for example, a marketing specialist mentoring a managing director, or a financial controller guiding a production manager. But the combinations have proven to be highly well-working and effective.
“The number of people willing to donate their time to share knowledge makes me extremely proud. The pairs have been a fantastic match-up, each mentor was eager to share expertise, and each mentee eager to learn. This is a perfect example of our low hierarchy, open company culture, and shared goals,” says Mervi Kainulainen, Vice President, Marketing, Communications, and HR at Peikko Group.
Globally local in action
After a common kick-off meeting each pair met regularly over several months focusing on goals and topics chosen by the mentee. The discussions were open, insightful, and genuinely valuable. Topics ranged from leadership and growth to navigating new responsibilities or sharing best practices across markets.
The mentorship program is a good example of how Peikko combines global strength with local presence. Just as our projects connect people across countries, so does our mentoring: a network where expertise flows freely and employees support one another regardless of title or geography.
“By sharing knowledge across borders and roles, we foster professional growth, enhance skills, and build strong relationships within our company. Participants feel heard, supported, and connected, reinforcing the idea that no one stands alone,“ Kainulainen says.
From employee feedback to regular activity
What started as an internal idea has now become a permanent part of Peikko’s HR development activities.
This program reflects our commitment to listening to our people and responding with meaningful actions. It’s one way we are investing in our employees and supporting each other across roles, locations, and functions.
With the first round successfully completed, the second mentorship program will begin early in 2026. By continuing to build this kind of connection and trust, we are strengthening not only individual growth but the culture of our entire company.
Thoughts shared by the mentees and mentors
“Participating in my first mentorship program was valuable. I learned about structured task management from my partner and appreciated connecting with a colleague beyond daily work. It also challenged me to step into the mentor role.”
“We had very fruitful discussions & deep learning about the history of why we do things in the way we do. I feel more understanding about current events at Peikko and what must change for us to achieve our long-term targets, both financially, operationally, and strategically. All in all, I feel more focused and clear-headed about the direction I want to take my work in.”
“Opportunity to learn and develop inside the organization, flexibility of mentor, and ability to study online. To get to know my colleague and learn how the Peikko business looks from his perspective. This information sharing was the best thing.”
“Connecting with individuals from other departments/countries at Peikko that I would probably never have a chance to work with or even chat with otherwise. It was also quite impressive to see how many things you can have in common with people from different backgrounds and cultures.”
Interested in knowing more about Peikko as an employer? Learn more.
This article was originally published in Peikko’s customer magazine Connections 2026.