In this edition of Inside Alfa, we sit down with Joni Mielikainen from Road2Sea Logistics Oy in Helsinki, Finland. His path into logistics wasn’t carefully planned — it began on the warehouse floor as a student job and grew into a genuine passion. Over the years, Joni has embraced the fast pace, the problem-solving, and the constant variety the industry offers. Today, he leads with a mindset that blends innovation, teamwork, and a personal touch, while never forgetting the importance of people behind the process. His journey is a reminder that sometimes the best careers are the ones that find us.
Tell us a bit about how your journey in logistics began – was it something you always planned, or did it take you by surprise?
Honestly, logistics wasn’t something I had planned from the start — it kind of found me. I grew up around family who were involved in business, so I was always exposed to how things worked behind the scenes — whether it was dealing with suppliers, managing stock, or just the general hustle of keeping things running. That definitely planted the seed.
I started out working in a warehouse, just trying to get some hands-on experience and earn a extra money during my studies. But once I got into it, I realized how much I enjoyed the fast pace and the problem-solving side of things. One role led to another — from the warehouse floor to planning, operations, sales and finally to management.
It surprised me how much I actually enjoyed the industry. Every day is different, there’s always a challenge to solve, and I love seeing how everything connects. What started as just a job ended up turning into a career I’m genuinely passionate about.
What do you think is the most exciting trend currently shaping the logistics industry?
There’s a lot happening in logistics right now, but what really stands out to me is the mix of smart technology and the personal touch. On one hand, tech is changing everything — with AI, automation, and real-time tracking, we can work way more efficiently and stay ahead of issues before they become problems. It’s amazing how much more visibility and control we have now compared to just a few years ago.
At the same time, I think what makes the biggest difference is still the people behind the process. Having a dedicated, hands-on team that really cares about the customer and pays attention to the details — that’s something technology can’t fully replace. Clients notice when they’re dealing with people who genuinely want to help and understand their needs.
And of course, sustainability is another big one. There’s a growing push to make logistics greener, which is leading to new ideas and better practices across the board. So it’s an exciting mix — smart systems, real human connection, and a focus on doing things more responsibly.
What does innovation mean to you in the context of logistics, and how do you foster it in your organization?
For me, innovation in logistics is about finding smarter, faster, and more efficient ways to work. It doesn’t always have to be a big technology rollout — often it’s a simple tweak to a process, listening to the team’s ideas, or trying a new approach that makes everything run more smoothly.
In our organization, I try to keep things open and flexible. I believe the best ideas often come from the people on the ground every day, so I encourage the team to speak up when they see something that could be improved. No idea is too small — even small changes can have a big impact over time.
We’re also not afraid to test things out. Not everything works perfectly the first time, and that’s okay. The key is to stay open to change, learn along the way, and keep looking for better ways to do things. That mindset keeps us moving forward and helps us stay ahead in such a fast-paced industry.
Looking ahead 5 years, what would “success” in logistics look like for your company or the industry as a whole?
In five years, I believe success in logistics will mean being faster, smarter, and more sustainable — all while keeping the personal touch that makes the difference. For our company, that would mean streamlined operations, strong client relationships, and a team that continues to grow and improve.
To me, success is about adapting quickly, using data and technology in smart ways, and offering solutions that are not only efficient but also flexible to each customer’s needs. On a larger scale, I hope to see the industry moving further toward greener practices — with more electric vehicles, better route planning, and less waste.
At the end of the day, if we’re running smoothly, keeping our clients satisfied, staying ahead of the curve, and creating a positive environment for our team — that’s what real success looks like.
What’s one piece of advice you would give to someone just starting in your line of work?
If I had to give one piece of advice, it would be: stay curious and never be afraid to ask questions. Logistics can seem complicated at first because so much happens behind the scenes, but the more you learn, the more everything starts to make sense.
It’s also important to build strong relationships — with your team, suppliers, and customers — because logistics is built on teamwork and communication. And finally, be open to change. This industry moves quickly, and being flexible and ready to learn new things will carry you far.
You’ve been with us for a few months now – how has the journey been so far? Any highlights or surprises?
The journey so far has been great! I’ve really enjoyed getting to know the Alfa Family members. A highlight has been seeing how active and skilled they are — their expertise and dedication really stand out. Overall, it’s been a positive experience, and I’m looking forward to what’s next!
What’s one thing you think makes this network different from other professional associations or logistics groups?
What really makes this network stand out is the genuine sense of family and support. Unlike other groups that can feel more formal or transactional, here it’s about building real relationships and helping each other succeed. From my experience so far, everyone is approachable and willing to share knowledge, which creates a very positive and collaborative atmosphere.
What’s one thing your colleagues would be surprised to learn about you?
I think people might be surprised to know how much I love sports and spending time outdoors, especially with my Labrador, Masa. I’m also a big fan of the sauna and cabin life — the classic Finnish way to relax and recharge.
Fun fact: there are about 3.3 million saunas in Finland for a population of only 5.5 million! And with more than 185,000 lakes, there’s always plenty of nature to enjoy.
Thank you, Joni, for sharing your story with us.