WCS People Profile & BCG’s Project Leader Sanni Inovaara – Transforming Sustainability Advocacy into Reality

Meet Sanni Inovaara, a dedicated Project Leader at Boston Consulting Group, whose remarkable journey is a testament to the transformative power of following one's true calling. With a passion and steadfast commitment to change the world for the better, she fearlessly embarked on a new career path to bring her dream of a more sustainable and greener future into closer reach.

Turning Dreams into Reality: Sanni's Journey from The Public Sector to Corporate Change-Maker

Originating from a small town, Sanni’s childhood immersed in the natural beauty of Finland. It was during this time that the young Sanni began to dream of safeguarding this exquisite world, not just for the environment but for society too, a dream that would shape the course of her life.

That pursuit led her to the University of Helsinki, where she earned a Bachelor's and a Master's degree focusing on Political Science and Economics. Her goal was clear—to promote sustainable development, as she believed this path would bring her closer to her dream of catalyzing change for the better.

“Most of the innovation and the solutions come from the corporations”

Sanni embarked on her journey by working at the Prime Minister's Office, where she actively promoted sustainable development, and as a Children's Rights Ambassador at Plan International Finland. In these roles, she found the opportunity to exert the influence she desired, touching lives and inspiring change.

However, Sanni gradually realized along her journey that the substantial transformations often spring from the private sector:

“Regulations are very important to support sustainable development, but most of the innovation and the solutions come from the corporations. So that was the intersection that I realized I wanted to be a part of.” With her mission in mind, she made the bold leap into management consulting, joining BCG.

Elevating Differences into Unique Strength

Starting at BCG as a Visiting Associate and being immediately involved with the company’s ambitious climate plan, Sanni believed this was the ideal environment for her.

Although lacking a traditional business background, Sanni carried with her a belief that her educational background from economics and her public sector experience uniquely equipped her for her role in the world of management consulting. She revealed that the most valuable attributes in this field aren't only about number-crunching and generic business knowledge; it's also about the ability to comprehend the broader perspective, connect with people on a meaningful level and offer deep topic expertise e.g., within sustainability.

“Political Science is very much about understanding how to influence people, how to make a decision, and to drive change once the decision is made.” Sanni shared.

“Moreover, I think that my background has been a big advantage for me. Among a team where everyone else have the same business background, having someone who is able to think a bit differently or ask different types of questions usually helps.”

Shaping a Sustainable Tomorrow through Project Leadership

Guiding Sanni along her career path has been a piece of advice from her university days:

“I hope that you go and work somewhere where you can make the biggest impact, versus where everyone already thinks the same way as you.” Her professor advised.

This wisdom steered her towards engaging with clients in industries like energy and fast fashion — sectors in urgent need of transformation. Initially, she played her part as a contributor to various projects. But as a Project Leader today, she is given the power to directly shape her clients' sustainability agenda, influencing the very direction they take.

“I hope that you go and work somewhere where you can make the biggest impact, versus where everyone already thinks the same way as you.”
-Sanni’s Professor

What sets Sanni's journey apart is her commitment to reaching beyond the confines of her daily work. She has published numerous publications in collaboration with the BCG team and other organizations, such as the Climate Leadership Coalition and the World Economic Forum, focusing on sustainability issues such as "Finland's Moonshot for Green Growth" and "Winning the Race to Net Zero." Through these publications, her influence extends far beyond individual clients. As they are presented to the Finnish Government and in COP climate summits, Sanni's dream to drive tangible change becomes undeniable.

Despite a demanding work schedule, Sanni remains committed to her enthusiasm for sports. She plays tennis 2-3 times a week with friends.

Leading and Empowering from Within

“Sustainability is not just about climate and environment, it also concerns social issues, as the Social in ESG.” Sanni emphasized.

As a dedicated Project Leader championing sustainability, Sanni's deep commitment extends to Diversity and Inclusion. Drawing from her own experiences as someone who has often felt different, whether starting in a new school or city, Sanni emphasizes the importance of fostering an inclusive environment that respects differences and treats everyone with equality.

“Everyone deserves an opportunity to succeed. I believe that most people can thrive if they’re given the opportunity to do so. What really frustrates and upsets me is that many people don’t even get the opportunity to show what they are capable of.” She shared sincerely.

Therefore, she conscientiously incorporates this topic into her duties in people development and coaching the upcoming generation. She actively mentored team members, empowering them to become advocates for change. Her legacy includes not only her work but also the talented individuals she has nurtured and inspired to make a difference.

“I believe that most people can thrive if they’re given the opportunity to do so.”

For Sanni, a crucial aspect of leadership lies in recognizing your values and the kind of leader you aspire to be. Her compass points toward becoming a people-focused leader.

“One core value that I tried to live by on is treating everyone with the same respect. It is something that is really close to my heart.”

The second key leadership trait is steering the team in the right direction. Sanni sets the bar high for her team, but she never skimps on celebrating their wins.

“After reaching a milestone, people tend to overlook what they have achieved and focus instead on the minor things that could have been even better. So, I always organize a nice celebration just to take a small break and promote the team’s spirit.”

Embracing Uniqueness and Mutual Support for a Better World: Sanni's Advice for Your Career Journeys

For those embarking on their career paths or considering a shift into management consulting from diverse backgrounds, Sanni offers a valuable piece of advice: don't attempt to mold yourself into someone you're not, but instead, embrace your uniqueness.

“In my own experience, If I tried to change myself to become more similar to others, or even copied others’ direction, I think I wouldn’t have become very good at it. You should instead trust yourself, really think about what matters to you and build your own career based on that.”

Look at how that gets her to become a professional expert in her own field.

“It’s very meaningful how we (women) don’t compete against but rather support each other to rise to leadership positions.”

“I believe that in corporations the best ideas aren’t usually the ones that everyone else have already come up with. It is that unique idea which then actually makes the difference.”

In a male-dominated industry like management consulting, Sanni emphasizes the significance of mutual support in career development, especially among women.

“I think it’s very meaningful how we don’t compete against but rather support each other to rise to leadership positions.”

At the end of the day, what really matters to Sanni is the value of appreciating equality among individuals, regardless of their backgrounds. She firmly believes that embracing Diversity and Inclusion in all aspects of life will pave the way for a better world.