Johanna Mattila has been appointed as the new Regional Development Director at the Regional Council of Southwest Finland. She will take up her position on 17 August. Mattila has a strong background in regional development, EU funding and the development of rural industries. She currently works as Head of the Rural Funding Team at the Southwest Finland Centre for Economic Development.
Mattila brings extensive experience in the preparation and implementation of development programmes, together with strong regional and national networks.
– I am truly enthusiastic and at the same time grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the development of Southwest Finland, both now and in the future, Mattila says.
She notes that the importance of the work is particularly highlighted in the current context.
– The preparation of the upcoming EU funding period, as well as the increasing importance of regional development and regional solutions amid global changes, enhance both the relevance of the work and the opportunities to make an impact, she adds.
According to Mattila, there are currently several key development issues in Southwest Finland that require cooperation and a clear direction.
– In addition to preparing for the EU funding period 2028–2034, key priorities include strengthening businesses and competitiveness, activating joint R&D projects between companies and research institutions, and reinforcing regional partnerships around shared goals.
