Portrait of Jyrki Vanamo

About

I am a designer, entrepreneur, and investor working across digital products and real estate.

Design and branding (1998–)

My design journey began in the 90s with MS Paint, HTML, Flash, and the like. Despite completing an MSc in architecture in 2008, my long-standing practice in digital design continued after graduation. Over time, my roles shifted from hands-on execution to product strategy, branding, and business outcomes. I’ve held senior design and product roles at:

ProductSense
Wero
Kontist
Holvi
Wanderfeel
Tekla

Board work and consulting (2005–)

I’m a certified board member HHJ and have held board and advisory roles in companies, associations, and housing co-operatives. Through my two agencies, Mapdon (†) and Vanamo Partners, I’ve worked as a consultant for a wide range 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

Real estate and angel investing (2012–)

I’ve been investing in real estate since the 2010s and completed an MSc in real estate economics in 2025. I hold about a dozen rental units and invest in early-stage companies operating in real estate, finance, and related technologies. I currently have a stake in the following companies:

Kletta
Komu Homes
Pelago Bicycles

Services

I typically work in roles where strategy and execution come together. Here’s what I bring to the table.

Product and design leadership

I take hands-on roles in building digital products and companies. This often includes product strategy, team leadership, and connecting product decisions with business and financial realities.

Real estate and business development

With experience in design and business development, a private rental portfolio, and degrees in architecture and real estate, I shape spaces and properties that perform for investors and users.

Investments and partnerships

I look at new investment opportunities in real estate and early-stage companies. I prefer setups where capital is combined with active involvement, rather than passive ownership.

All-of-the-above combinations

Many of my engagements combine product leadership, business development, and investment through creative win-win deals. 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.