 Jorma Ollila Finland Atlantic College Chairman of Royal Dutch Shell | I learnt to be more comfortable with foreign cultures, travelling and facing tough new challenges |
Jorma Ollila (AC 67-69) was appointed as the first non-Dutch, non-British, Chairman of Royal Dutch Shell, one of the largest private sector corporations in the world, in June 2006
After Jorma graduated from Atlantic College he continued his academic studies earning himself a Master of Political Science, University of Helsinki, a Master of Science (Econ.), London School of Economics, and a Master of Science (Eng.) in Engineering Physics, Helsinki University of Technology.
Jorma joined Nokia in 1985 having worked for eight years in corporate banking at Citibank's London and Helsinki offices. His career at Nokia continued over the next seven years and he was appointed CEO in 1992.
In 2006, after 14 years, Jorma stepped down as Chairman and CEO of Nokia – remaining as non-executive Chair for the corporation. He then commenced his current position as Chairman of Royal Dutch Shell.
Jorma is also Chairman of the Research Institute of the Finnish Economy (ETLA), one of the most reputed economic and social studies think tanks in Finland.
"My Atlantic College experience gave me a totally different perspective on world affairs. In practical terms, I learnt to be more comfortable with foreign cultures, travelling and facing tough new challenges. It also directed me towards a career with an international perspective right from the early days of my professional life."