Simo Heikkinen

Simo Heikkinen has a clear message for younger colleagues who want to advance in their careers: “When new opportunities come your way, you shouldn’t focus too much on whether the role is your ultimate dream job or how much the benefits improve. Every new responsibility can become a stepping stone to the next important role.” 

Simo himself has approached new opportunities with an open mind throughout his career. New responsibilities have often led to concrete opportunities, such as moving into completely new roles or expanding existing areas of responsibility. 

“I joined Samlink 17 years ago as a Software Developer in the online banking team, and since then I’ve worked in many different roles, from coding and agile development to business unit leadership positions. I spent 10 years in managerial roles, leading teams ranging from five people to units of up to 200 employees.” 

About a year ago, Simo took on his current role as a Development Partner after being asked to step into the position. The change also meant leaving behind his management responsibilities.  

“Stepping away from management wasn’t an easy decision for me, because leadership role was close to my heart and I felt I had done well. I enjoy helping people succeed and building effective teams. In the end, however, the opportunity to take on something new was more compelling, and I decided to change roles.” 

Simo soon realized that his leadership experience would also prove valuable in his current role as a project manager. 

“I was surprised by how much my managerial role helped when building a new team and creating a strong team spirit.” 

In his new role, Simo works much more closely with customers, which he has found particularly rewarding. 

“Working closely with the customer on a daily basis creates a strong sense of success. We truly work together, rather than in separate silos.” 

Growth Mindset Means Continuous Learning Through Work

For Simo, a growth mindset means having the courage to take on new challenges, even when there isn’t a ready-made solution. He gives a lot of credit to his project team for their determination to succeed and for showing that even difficult challenges can be solved.

“We have a good atmosphere, and my colleagues play a key role in why I enjoy my work so much.” 

Collecting and using feedback is essential for learning and development. 

“We always review what we as a team can do better in the next sprint. In addition, I reflect daily on what I’m doing well and what I’m still able to develop.” 

Continuously developing one’s own skills is important. Simo is solution-oriented and particularly interested in methods for solution design and further strengthening problem-solving capabilities.  

“AI has quickly become a significant part of our work, and it’s important for me to keep learning how to use it more effectively in my own role. Communication is another area where there is always room for improvement, especially when adapting your communication style to different situations.” 

Career Development is Encouraged

At Samlink, employees have long been encouraged to take on new roles and develop their expertise. In recent years, becoming part of Kyndryl has expanded these opportunities even further.

“I really want to give credit to my employer for supporting and helping me move forward throughout my career. Managers have always played an important role in encouraging my development.” 

Today, as part of Kyndryl, Samlink operates as an expert delivery team where even younger professionals can take part in major projects and talented individuals can stand out. 

“This is not an environment where people disappear into the masses. During internal transfers, the focus is not on how someone’s current role will be filled afterward, but on supporting career development,” Simo says. 

Simo encourages all younger technology professionals to stay genuinely curious, learn from more experienced colleagues, and confidently bring forward their own ideas and expertise.

“I’ve noticed that those who develop the fastest are the ones who are genuinely interested in their work, carefully listen to advice from more experienced colleagues, and are willing to expand their skills.” 

Kyndryl Offers International Opportunities and Perspectives

Being part of Kyndryl has opened up new global perspectives and opportunities for Samlink’s experts. 

“It’s valuable to see how things are done elsewhere, so we don’t become too focused on our own way of working.” 

For Simo personally, Kyndryl created an opportunity to work on an international project when he spent nearly a year working in the Baltics. 

“Expanding into Hungary was a significant personal milestone that wouldn’t have been possible without Kyndryl. We created a model where part of the employees are based in Hungary, and we built shared teams that are still operating today.” 

Kyndryl also provides extensive opportunities for professional growth. There are many courses, training programs, and learning materials available to employees. 

“The global support network is very strong, and we can leverage it when developing new services for our customers.”