Minna supports the human performance and well-being of civilians

Head of Personnel Minna Pohja joined the Finnish Defence Forces as a training secretary. Today, she works as the Head of Personnel in the Joint Systems Centre.

Pohja is an expert and leader in Human Resources management and administration.

Pohja’s tasks include personnel planning, organisational tasks, employer image and recruitment activities, successor planning, supervisory activities and management, ensuring the human performance of personnel, guidance and support, and the development of competence-related readiness.

Internal services and people skills

The work requires extensive and in-depth expertise in the overall field of HR, so that one can successfully prepare for the many decisions that are related to HR management.

– It’s also important to have good situational control, the ability to build trust, situational sensitivity, and the ability to see people as individuals. You also need to have a high tolerance for stress and strong people skills. And, sometimes, you just have to remember to take it easy – a smile and a sunny disposition can go a long way.

Throughout her career, Pohja has learned from her other, more seasoned colleagues, which has been a huge help in her work. In addition, she has received all the support and training she could ever need from her employer. Working in HR means working within an organisation, and Pohja likes to engage in planning and development tasks.

– The best thing is that you feel you can influence something larger than yourself. In my work, the most challenging part is looking for different methods, procedures, alternatives, and new perspectives while keeping within and applying the regulatory limits set by my work environment.