Valio appoints Matti Lehmus as CEO effective January 1, 2027

FINLAND – Valio has appointed Matti Lehmus as the new CEO, effective January 1, 2027, following Annikka Hurme’s decision to retire at the end of 2026.

Annikka Hurme has worked at Valio since 1989 in a variety of expert and management roles and has served as the company’s CEO since 2014.

Annikka Hurme has had a long and distinguished career in the Finnish food industry. She has played a key role in driving Valio’s growth, improving profitability, and advancing its strategy.

She has helped turn Valio into a leading force in Finnish food exports and to expand beyond its core business to become a leading producer of plant-based products, enter the biogas business, and expand into the wholesale sector.

“It has been a great honour to be part of this continuum in the service of the iconic Valio. The company has always evolved with the times and led the way for the entire industry. I am pleased to pass the baton to my successor at the turn of the year and look forward to following the next chapter of Valio’s success story,” said CEO Annikka Hurme.

Matti Lehmus has held several key leadership positions during his long career at Neste, including serving as the company’s President and CEO from 2022 to 2024. He currently also serves on Kemira’s Board of Directors.

Matti Lehmus is an experienced leader with a strong track record of developing and growing businesses both in Finland and internationally. His extensive experience in leading several global growth projects was a significant factor in the selection process.

Valio strengthens plant-based portfolio with €7M Raisio acquisition

In 2025, Valio acquired Raisio’s plant protein business, including the Härkis and Beanit fava bean brands, in a deal valued at €7 million. 

The acquisition includes production equipment at Raisio’s plant protein factory in Kauhava, Finland, and 16 employees who will transfer to Valio.

A report by Valio stated that the deal strengthens its position in the plant-based protein market as part of its ongoing expansion beyond dairy. 

The company has been investing in alternative protein sources, with executive vice president Tuomas Salusjärvi highlighting that the future of food will require a combination of plant-based, animal-based, and cellular agriculture products.

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