From Summer Worker to HR Manager

Our factory, which produces specialty papers, employs nearly 200 workers, so the role of an HR manager requires both systematic approach and strong expertise. Our HR team, like the rest of our administration, works under the same roof as our production personnel.

Pirjo Mäkitalo is one of our two HR managers at Jujo. Her work is to ensure that our HR practices support both employee well-being and the company’s sustainability goals. "In HR, we focus on developing employee skills and well-being, which is an important part of sustainable and responsible business," Pirjo explains.

Pirjo studied business administration and graduated in 1988. While working, she further expanded her expertise by completing a payroll management degree at the Leadership Institute and a labor relations specialist degree at the same institution. Additionally, she completed specialized HR studies at SAMK in Pori and an advanced leadership qualification at Rastor.

Pirjo started at Jujo as a summer worker in 1987. She returned for the summer of 1988 and later that same year became a permanent employee. "I’ve been on this path ever since, which is now 36 years. Over the years I have took time off to stay at home with my children when they were small.”

Pirjo's career at Jujo progressed, and over the years, she took on more responsibilities as her experience grew. Initially, she worked as a payroll clerk, but over time, her role expanded to cover the entire HR field. "I worked as an HR officer and HR specialist until, in 2020, I became an HR manager."

"In HR, we focus on developing employee skills and well-being, which is an important part of sustainable and responsible business".

Today, Pirjo’s responsibilities include managing the payroll for office employees and handling labor relations throughout the entire employee lifecycle. She is also responsible for ensuring the continuous skill development and training possibilities for the employees and, when necessary, fills in for the other HR manager, who oversees matters related to the worker side. "A typical workday at Jujo is varied. At the beginning of the month, I focus on preparing and verifying payroll. My daily tasks include processing timesheets, interpreting overtime compensation, running and checking payroll systems, and sending payroll statements and files. I also handle various labor relations matters and training arrangements."

Pirjo has witnessed many changes in the paper industry. "Workplace safety and employee well-being have become increasingly important. Additionally, various legal changes and new regulations have brought more demands to HR work."

In her free time, Pirjo enjoys photography, particularly nature photography. "I enjoy being outdoors and visiting national parks. I also spend time at home taking care of my garden and pets."

"Being in nature and spending time outdoors gives me energy. Walking by the sea or in the forest helps me relax and forget about work matters. I find nature empowering."

Pirjo believes that being organized, conscientious, and able to work independently are important traits in her job. "I enjoy problem-solving and working independently, which makes HR work a good fit for me. Additionally, my personality suits tasks where I don't have to be constantly in the spotlight, but can still work closely with people."