Courage and curiosity drive Eljas forward in his work; Stockmann has provided space for new career paths

Sales Manager at Stockmann Tampere is responsible for developing sales and work culture, among other things. Eljas has taken bold career leaps and he’s enthusiastic not only about his work but also about public transport and city life.

What do you do at Stockmann and how did you end up working here? 

I first came to Stockmann 20 years ago as a sales person in the carpet department. I was interested in retail and wanted to work for the best. I’ve worked here in various departments in sales roles and in a customer lead role at Helsinki city centre and Tampere. While working, I also studied to become a community pedagogue and specialised in the development of work communities. I did my internship in Stockmann’s People & Culture team, which has opened up lots of new job opportunities. Now as a Sales Manager in Tampere, my responsibilities include the development of sales, operating methods, work culture and product selection. I’ve always said yes when asked to take on something new, and it has definitely been worth it.

What is the best thing about your job?

I get to lead a big team of several dozen people. The best thing about my job is seeing how passionate and committed our people are about their work. I enjoy brainstorming with people and finding new perspectives on everyday work. It’s great to be able to support my colleagues in their development. Our work community reflects the Tampere spirit in that people get down to work quickly and are brave enough to try new things.

Share one surprising thing your colleagues don’t know about you.  

I’m a passionate supporter of public transport and urban development! Previously, I worked for several years as the editor-in-chief of the Finnish Tramway Society’s publication alongside my day job. Even as a small child, I was excited by things like bus trips to Turku Market Square or train journeys to Helsinki. It’s fascinating how many different ways we have of getting around. Tampere has developed enormously in recent years, and now there is a tram stop in front of our department store.

Your most memorable moment at Stockmann?

We arrange a lot of events for our customers. Once, we wanted to hold a fashion show to present our spring collection. My colleagues came up with an idea of having a few male models in the show, and my colleague Jari and I were recruited right there and then, in the middle of the working day. The host, Jarkko Valtee, taught us a little about walking on the catwalk, and I was given linen trousers, a jacket and a straw hat to wear. The show went well, or at least I didn’t fall off the stage, and changing clothes backstage also went smoothly.

What is the best way to wow customers? 

In my work, I have seen that memorable moments are created through daily activities. You have to charm the customer again and again. I’m delighted to read in customer feedback that we succeed in this very well. Customers often enthusiastically share how we have taken the time to understand their needs, encouraged them to try something new or recommended a good product.

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