Global Citizen story Vantaa to Munich
Inkeri Nuutinen applied for AFRY Management Consulting's Global Citizen programme and relocated from Vantaa, Finland to Munich, Germany.
She enjoyed the fresh perspectives and enhancing her problem-solving skills, supported by the local environment and the strong connections she built with her colleagues in Munich.
Tell us about yourself: who are you, and what is your background?
I'm Inkeri Nuutinen, and I joined AFRY Management Consulting in 2021, working as a consultant in the Biorefining team. While my core focus has been on pulp markets, I’ve been involved in a diverse range of different projects.
What made you consider applying for the Global Citizen programme?
Participating in AFRY’s Global Citizen programme had been a clear goal of mine since joining the company. In spring 2023, I got the opportunity to relocate to the Munich office for five months. I wanted to undertake this experience to challenge myself, broaden my AFRY network and improve my language skills in German.
How did you end up choosing the location you transferred to?
Having visited Munich multiple times before, I was already aware of my fondness for the city. Munich, situated conveniently in the heart of Europe, boasts stunning natural landmarks nearby. Drawing from my personal experience, the locals are very friendly and hospitable. Moreover, I had the advantage of having studied German at school.
What kinds of expectations of the working culture of the transfer location did you have before leaving? To what extent were they realistic?
I reckoned that Germans would appreciate an honest and straightforward style of communication and strive for punctuality. I also knew that the AFRY office in Munich was considerably smaller than the one in Vantaa, which would enable a different, more intimate environment at work.
I couldn't be more delighted about the atmosphere and the colleagues at the Munich office! My expectations held true rather well, and the German working culture suited me very well. Furthermore, I thrived in working at a smaller location.
AFRY puts a high value on a culture of brave and devoted team players, inclusion & diversity and Making Future. How were these values part of everyday life at your transfer office?
The AFRY values were well represented at the Munich office. The atmosphere was open and appreciative so that everyone could be themselves. My colleagues received me warmly, and I could feel the presence of a true team spirit there. Employees came from different backgrounds and nationalities, so a couple of Finns fit in better than well!
What were your top 3 most memorable experiences regarding the local working culture?
- Receiving a warm welcome from my local colleagues and deepening my connection with both familiar faces and new acquaintances.
- New experiences both at work and during free time – leisure activities that everyone from work participated in were especially nice.
- Getting to trek and downhill ski in the Alps.
Why would you recommend applying for the programme?
In my opinion, the best side of the Global Citizen programme is the opportunity it offers to build a stronger network. Getting to know your colleagues better will make working together easier in the future and enhance the experience for everyone involved.
Moreover, new experiences in a new environment, both at and off work, provide new perspectives, develop your problem-solving skills and build self-confidence.
What are the most valuable lessons learned during the transfer that you can use to improve your own work and the working culture at your home office?
I didn't work remotely at all during my time in Munich, which was a nice change from my regular way of working! I decided to continue in this manner and go to the office more often, even after returning to Finland. The Munich office places great importance on fostering and nurturing team spirit through enjoyable shared lunches and engaging free-time activities. I became determined to bring this culture along with me to Finland!
