For the ninth time in his 25-year career, Sivula is carrying out a “from zero to business” project. He says, however, that he knows what he is doing and does not get stressed out if things are not always clear to begin with.
What is your role in Kokkola Sports Park alliance?
I’m Kokkola Sports Park’s Managing Director, one of the alliance’s two project managers and the client’s representative. Basically, it’s my job to do everything that doesn’t get done by anybody else. I’m responsible for the success of the entire project, which I run from beginning to end.
What do you think of working in an alliance, what is it like?
I think that working in an alliance is a really good way to carry out large, complex projects with many participants. As an operating model, an alliance is a pleasant and communal way of working as we gather all parties together at an early stage and work together with a team of experts to develop the project. This is also very similar to the product development activities carried out by technology start-ups. It has also been nice to have the opportunity to work with an internationally acclaimed expert organisation after so long. In this team, skills and professionalism shine through in everyday tasks; everyone understands and knows what to do.
Have there been any challenges?
There have been some challenges with scheduling, and, of course, learning new things can always be a bit of a challenge. Operating at the interface between public administration and the private sector can be tricky, and we need to think about how to make them work together. However, I think that the alliance model is an excellent tool for this type of situation, and it simplifies the cooperation in many ways.
Describe a funny or otherwise memorable event from the alliance?
One thing in particular has stayed with me. I’ve launched many start-ups and businesses during my career. I had a supervisor about 20 years ago who, when I moaned about the chaos, replied to me: “All projects start in a state of indecision and ignorance.” This has been my motto ever since, and also my consolation as the initial stages are difficult in every project, and this one is no exception.
When I was younger, I found the early chaos stressful, but now I’ve been involved in so many projects that I’ve learnt to enjoy them, the chaotic moments and all. I also have the greatest freedom at the initial stage as nothing has been decided. Once the project begins to shape up and move forward, this freedom is, of course, reduced.
How do you recover from long working weeks?
I’ve practised judo for most of my life, and I still try to go to the gym a few times a week. I go iceboating in the winter. I do sports as my means of recovery.
Tell us a little more about the company and the project that you represent?
I represent Kokkola Sports Park. The starting point for the project is that almost all of the sports facilities in Kokkola are becoming obsolete. The purpose of the Sports Park is to update Kokkola’s sports and event facilities in a sustainable way.
