Portrait of Jyrki Vanamo

About

I am a designer and investor with a growing focus on board and advisory work.

Design

My design journey began in the 90s with MS Paint, HTML, Flash and the likes. Despite completing a master’s degree in architecture, my interest in new technologies led to a career in digital design. Over the past 10+ years, I’ve managed designers and design work at:

Wero
Kontist
Holvi
Wanderfeel
Tekla

Investments

Since the 2010s, I’ve been investing in real estate alongside my full-time work. I now manage about a dozen rental units and have expanded my portfolio to include startups operating within real estate, finance and emerging technologies. Currently, I have a stake in the following companies:

Kletta
Komu Homes
Pelago Bicycles

Board work and consulting

I’m a certified board member (HHJ) and have held various board and advisory roles in companies, associations and housing co-operatives. Through my two agencies Mapdon (†) and Vanamo Partners, I’ve provided consulting for dozens of organizations, including:

Aalto University
Amos Rex
Information Centre for Finnish Architecture
City of Espoo
Finavia
City of Helsinki
John Nurminen Foundation
Ministry of Justice, Finland
Restaurant Day
Skanska
University of Arts, Helsinki
City of Tampere
Trimble
WSP
WWF
Yeply
YIT
YLE

Services

Whether through consulting, investing or board work, here’s what I bring to the table.

Design and business consulting

I help businesses improve their products and streamline operations through design, branding, and strategic consulting. Whether you need guidance on a specific project or longer-term support, I can probably help.

Investments and partnerships

I’m actively exploring new investment opportunities both in real estate and early-stage startups. If you have a project or venture that aligns with my interests, let’s discuss how we can collaborate.

Board work and advisory roles

With experience in entrepreneurship, governance and strategic thinking, I’m available for board and advisory roles. If your organization needs hands-on guidance to navigate growth, I’d be happy to connect.

All-of-the-above combinations

Many of my ventures have combined investment and advisory through creative win-win deals, like exchanging expertise for equity. If you’re open to flexible collaboration, let’s explore how we can work together.

Testimonials

Don’t just take my word for it. Here’s what others say about working with me.

Jyrki is one of the most versatile strategic thinkers I’ve ever worked with. Drawing from a diverse background and blending unconventional insights, his analysis often proves to be spot on.

From product strategy to people management, Jyrki is an invaluable sparring partner. His advice helped us avoid common pitfalls and focus on the right things from the get-go.

Working with Jyrki is absolutely delightful. His management approach is empowering, hands-on, and deeply appreciates the diverse strengths within his team.

Jyrki knows what a successful company is made of. Whatever the topic, he comes well-prepared and dives head-first into the challenge. His sharp focus and diligent approach are what every board needs.

What sets Jyrki apart is his deep humanity and innate ability to listen. His approach to leadership and design not only enhanced my skills but also left a lasting impact on how I view teamwork.

Contact

I’m always open to new opportunities. Let’s discuss how we can create value together.