After a massive Slush this past November the student-run conference organization is getting shaken up a bit, with CEO Miki Kuusi stepping down and replaced by Riku Mäkelä as new CEO, after service as COO since 2013. Additionally Marianne Vikkula has been appointed as President and will take care of partnerships, after previously working as CFO of Slush.
Slush and AaltoES have traditionally placed a high emphasis on turnover, with the idea that new leaders bring new energy and ideas into their organizations.
Going forward it looks like more of everything: “In 2015, we will focus especially on the international aspect of the event. In addition, we aim to develop the services for startups and investors, as well as the stage program”, comments Mäkelä. More specifics about the event should be shared in three or four weeks time as they nail down the planning stages. A date has been set, however, so mark November 11-12 on your calendar.
Kuusi will still act as a member of the Board at Slush, but is focusing on his own startup, Wolt, of which he serves as co-founder and CEO. Wolt’s general premise is to reduce waiting times at for lunch places and coffee by allowing you to pre-order (and pre-pay) while additionally letting you skip the lines. Wolt has reportedly raised €400,000 seed, and has recruited a good team behind the product.
