The LUT board decided in its January 2022 meeting to authorise the board's working committee to prepare for the appointment of a rector for a new term.
The working committee held two preparatory meetings. The committee and the university collegium also discussed the work performance of LUT's current rector, Juha-Matti Saksa, and the results of his 360 evaluation, where he was evaluated by his supervisor, those who report directly to him, and the university collegium. In addition, the chair of the board discussed the evaluation with Saksa himself.
The board decided unanimously that Saksa, D.Sc. (Econ. & Bus. Admin.) and LUT's rector since 2016, will continue in his position for the term 1 January 2023–31 December 2026.
"Juha-Matti Saksa has done his work outstandingly. LUT has become one of the top three universities in Finland under his leadership. LUT has grown to become a true university of business and industry, and the impact of its research and education stems from the success of its corporate partners," says Teresa Kemppi-Vasama, the chair of LUT's board.
"The board is very impressed by how widely the staff and students support Saksa. His laid-back and easy-going way of leading his community has turned out to be a successful approach."
A rector needs to have a doctoral degree, the professional skills required for the duties, and provenly good management and leadership skills. Before being appointed rector, Saksa had also worked as a provost, administrative director and fixed-term professor at LUT.
"I feel honoured to be able continue my work in and for the LUT community. I want to help LUT continue its journey to becoming one of the world's most highly-regarded universities," Juha-Matti Saksa states. "Together we are building a better tomorrow. We have already been listed in the top 414 of two of the world's most distinguished university rankings. In terms of climate action, we are in the world's top 10."
After his reappointment, Saksa will start preparing for the appointment of officials whose term of office is tied to his.
