When architect Salla Eckhardt (formerly Palos) moved from Tampere to the United States in 2016, she had nothing with her but a Green Card lottery win, a rental agreement, and a big dream.
Eckhardt’s international career began in a rather significant way, as she became the development director for Seattle’s largest private construction company.
Microsoft
In 2018, Salla began working at Microsoft’s internal real estate management innovation center, where her team developed the digital lifecycle of the company’s more than 800 properties. At Microsoft, Eckhardt was involved in projects that utilized cutting-edge technologies such as Microsoft Hololens and Apple iPad in property management.
Amidst the technological revolution, Eckhardt guided teams in transforming complex systems into user-friendly solutions. Her strategic thinking and ability to connect technology with business objectives enabled her rapid rise to the top of her field, earning her several international awards and recognitions.
International Success
Salla’s international career was not limited to the United States. Eckhardt has spoken about digital innovations and leadership at numerous conferences and universities around the world. She has also been involved in several international projects, where she has led teams across different countries.
Her ability to understand the needs of global business and navigate multicultural environments while building extensive collaboration networks has been a key part of her success on the international stage.
Salla’s journey is an inspiring story of expertise and growth, and how to build a successful international career.
Tampere
Salla’s career in the United States was a tremendous success story, but in the summer of 2024, an unexpected turn occurred. Salla met with Tino Nurmi, the chairman of the board at SARA, and their discussions opened the door to a new chapter. Salla shared her enthusiasm for the future of digital construction and how international expertise could be combined with local innovation in Finland.
As a result of these discussions, Salla will begin as the CEO of SARA in August. With this, she brings to the company her extensive experience and vision, which will help the company succeed in its future goals.
SARA: A Pioneer in Digital Construction
SARA is known in the industry as a pioneer in digital project management. In recent years, the company has invested heavily in digital solutions and technological innovations that enable more efficient and transparent management of construction projects. Now, with the new CEO, SARA is ready to take this development even further.
“Salla Eckhardt’s experience and expertise will be valuable assets in the development of SARA,” states Chairman of the Board Tino Nurmi.
“She has a unique ability to combine technology with practical implementation, which fits perfectly with our strategy focused on digital construction and international growth.”
The construction industry is ripe for visionary leadership, but due to the industry’s sensitivity to economic fluctuations, transformative strategies need to be translated into practices that inspire people and lead to faster, tangible results. The attractiveness of the industry depends on digital transformation and sustainable development.
‘We face many challenges due to the global economic situation, but also tremendous opportunities because SARA has a superior competitive advantage—world-class talent and a great organizational culture. Finland is a smart and innovative environment where technology is not just a possibility but also a practical solution. SARA offers a fantastic opportunity to leverage and further develop these innovations. I am truly excited about what we can achieve together,’ Salla enthuses.
Future
Salla Eckhardt’s joining of SARA’s team opens new doors to the future and the global stage. Her top-level expertise merges with the company’s existing know-how and technology investments.
With Eckhardt’s appointment, the company is ready to take the next significant steps toward a future where digital construction and technological innovations play a central role.
Timo Kamppuri will continue as Business Director, focusing on enhancing core business operations and excellence in project management.
“In the upcoming strategy, the focus will be on international expansion and the development of digital solutions. This growth path will certainly not be undertaken alone, and I’m excited to have Salla as a fantastic mentor as we move toward international endeavours,” says Timo Kamppuri.
Nurmi, Kamppuri, and the entire SARA team warmly welcome Salla and express their gratitude for the trust placed in them.
Salla brings with her a new era, as the company embarks on a journey toward international digital excellence!
