Sivula graduated from Helsinki University of Technology with a Master of Science in Technology, and he has held management positions in several companies as well as management and administration positions in numerous projects.
The sports and event park is the latest major project in Kokkola and it contributes to the town’s visibility and plays a significant role in its attractiveness and vibrant growth. Kokkolan Urheilupuisto Oy is responsible for the implementation of the project. The Managing Director’s first task is to create a plan and schedule for the construction project, which will specify the services, service models and other content for the park. The project will be launched this spring.
Sivula has a proven track record in the successful planning and implementation of new projects and setting up of new companies. He is also experienced in networking, having formed several alliances both in Finland and overseas. He also has experience as an event organiser and sports coach.
MPS Career Oy’s recruitment services and psychologist consultant were involved in the application process as partners. The deadline for the applications was 21 March 2021. A total of 17 applications were submitted, and eight candidates were selected for interviews. On the basis of the applications and initial interviews, three applicants were invited to an extensive aptitude assessment, tests and final interviews.
According to Daniel Särs, MPS’s psychologist consultant, the testing and assessment focused on managerial skills, especially in the overall management of an extensive project. “Other key criteria were the ability to understand and analyse the overall picture, people skills in collaborating with large numbers of stakeholders, communication and interaction skills, and strong decision-making and negotiation skills,” says Särs. Kokkola City Board acts as the steering group in charge of Urheilupuisto Oy’s operations. The steering group prepared the company’s charter (articles of association, industry), discussed the criteria for the Managing Director role and was provided with several reports on the progress of the process.