Jan Vapaavuori is the former Mayor of Helsinki (2017-2021) and has previously served as Vice-President of the European Investment Bank in Luxemburg (2015-2017), Finnish Minister of Economic Affairs (2012-2015), Minister of Housing and Urban Planning (2007-2011), and Member of the Finnish Parliament (2003-2015).

Mr. Vapaavuori runs his own advisory and investment business concentrated especially on urban development, real estate and housing. He has a keen interest in global urban affairs, and he participates actively in numerous international platforms. He currently serves at the Bloomberg New Economy Cities Council, and is an active lecturer and advisor on urban leadership and urban development related topics.

Additionally, Mr. Vapaavuori serves as the President of the Finnish Olympic Committee, the Vice-chair of the Finnish National Opera’s Board of Governors, and chairs his family foundation which supports contemporary dance and visual arts. He graduated with Master of Laws from the University of Helsinki and holds an Honorary Doctoral Degree from Hanken School of Economics.