Entrepreneur Timo Korhonen Awarded the Honorary Title of Industrial Counsellor

On November 28, 2025, the President of Finland granted the honorary title of Industrial Counsellor to Timo Korhonen, Chairman of the Board of Oy Sisu Auto Ab and entrepreneur.

Timo Korhonen has worked for over 37 years in various roles within Finland’s vehicle industry, the majority of this time in leadership positions at Oy Sisu Auto Ab. Since 2010, as the owner and entrepreneur of Sisu Auto, Korhonen has successfully led the turnaround and stabilization of this iconic, nearly century-old domestic pioneer in the truck and military vehicle sector toward a brighter future. As a result of this work, Sisu Auto—traditionally a manufacturer of trucks for the domestic market—has now become one of Europe’s leading producers of protected military vehicles, with production growing at a rapid pace.

Korhonen’s sustained collaboration with educational institutions focused on the industry helps ensure the continued success of Finland’s vehicle manufacturing sector. His extensive international network has also provided strong support for this development work, much of it originating in the early 1990s when he successfully led the Sisu Racing team in the European Championship series for racing trucks.

“I extend my warmest thanks to President of Finland, Alexander Stubb for granting me the honorary title of Industrial Counsellor. My deepest gratitude also goes to those who applied for this title on my behalf, the organizations behind this effort, friends, customers, and especially the personnel of Sisu Auto and our broad domestic subcontractor network, whose strong expertise, determination, and hard work have made the success of Sisu Auto and its partner network possible.”

“Life in an entrepreneurial family is not always easy. When an entrepreneur is faced with the exceptionally challenging task of taking on all the difficulties that existed at the starting point for Sisu Auto and, through the success of the company, also bearing responsibility for the future of the entire industry, these challenges inevitably affect the family as well. I am therefore deeply grateful for all the support I have received from my loved ones,” concludes Timo Korhonen.

The honorary title is awarded to individuals who have made significant contributions to Finnish industry and business. Timo Korhonen’s career and achievements reflect a strong commitment to advancing domestic expertise and innovation.