Our People

Every leader faces moments when direction is unclear and choices carry weight. We bring calm structure to those moments – combining analytical thinking, broad experience and the ability to translate complexity into clarity.

The people behind Grip

We help you see what matters, challenge assumptions and build resilient strategies that work in practice. Our perspective is shaped by decades of real-world leadership, research and strategic work across organisations and industries.

Katja Kolehmainen

CEO & Co-Founder

Katja is an experienced strategy advisor who understands the strategic challenges faced by both private and public sector organizations. She skillfully bridges academic research and practical application in her strategy work. Katja holds a PhD on the relationship between management systems and strategy from Aalto University. Her current research focuses on the formation of transformative strategies.

Katja thrives in complex and unstructured situations where new perspectives, clarity, and concrete solutions are needed. Her key strength lies in combining analytical thinking with a people-oriented approach, turning strategic conversations into both insight and action. Katja is a valued facilitator known for building trust and guiding diverse groups toward shared conclusions.

“Good strategy starts with asking the right questions. It’s not just about direction — it’s about clarity, courage, and focus.”

Katja has served as a strategic advisor to listed companies, growth businesses, and a variety of public sector organizations from Business Finland to wellbeing services counties, giving her a unique perspective on the societal and industry-specific dynamics that shape strategy.

Katri Harra

Board Professional & Co-Founder

Katri is a well-known and versatile leader, whose focus lies in business renewal, growth, and strategy work in the times of technological disruption. Throughout her career, she has pursued and built growth — founding new businesses, services, and teams to support it.

Her specific focus is on strategic business transformation and the opportunities it brings for both large corporations and smaller organizations. Katri is a professional board member who also invests her time in broader strategic support for companies. She also serves as an advisor and investor in smaller ventures and projects.

“As a third-generation engineer, I love innovation — especially developing business through new ideas and unexpected combinations. While living in Sweden, I worked with both high-growth companies and listed corporations. For the past seven years, I’ve served in executive teams and boards of major companies. What matters most to me is the big picture behind strategy, well-timed and firmly grounded investments, and a positive culture as the foundation for growth.”

Katri has served as CDO responsible for transformation and technology at Finnair, led the renewal of Kojamo, acted as CEO in establishing Fjord AB on the Swedish market, and as Nordic Director of Satama Interactive overseeing operations across the Nordics.

Work with Grip

Ready to clarify your next move?

We help leaders see what matters, understand complexity,
and make confident decisions.