“A career path can start in unexpected places – mine began as a Habbo Hotel moderator”

 

Taina Pahkamaa‑Huusko has worked at the Ministry of Social Affairs and Health since 2010 in a wide range of administrative roles. In her current position as Executive Secretary, she brings together organisational expertise and societal themes in work that has a direct impact on daily life in Finland.

A career path can start in unexpected places. Mine began as a moderator at Habbo Hotel. From there, my studies led me to an internship and summer jobs at the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment. It made me realise that the public sector and working for the central government genuinely felt like the right fit for me.

After graduating in executive assistant studies and languages from Haaga‑Helia University of Applied Sciences, I applied to several ministries. The first interview invitation came from this ministry, and I was offered a position straight away. That was in 2010, and ever since I have been on an interesting, varied and rewarding journey in different roles across the organisation.

I started as a department secretary and over the years have worked, among other things, as an accounting secretary and as an executive secretary in several units. I have always approached new tasks with enthusiasm – and there has been no shortage of them here. I have worked as Executive Secretary at the Department of Communities and Functional Capacity since 2020, joining the department right from the start.

In my current role, administrative expertise, organisational skills and an interest in societal issues all come together. I act as secretary to the Director General and the senior management group, coordinate administrative matters and work in the secretariat of the ministerial working group.
One of my most memorable moments took place at the very beginning of the covid pandemic, when I answered the phone in a hurry and accidentally introduced myself as the Director General. Luckily, the journalist on the line saw the funny side of it – as did I.

What makes the ministry a special place? Without a doubt, the people, and the opportunity to work on issues that genuinely affect everyday life in Finland. My career here has been filled with laughter, learning and unexpected turns, and I am looking forward to many more.

Taina Pahkamaa-Huusko
Executive Secretary