Heikki heilala

• CEO of Owatec Service
• Entrepreneur since 2014
• Bachelor of Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, 2009, Oulu University of Applied Sciences

Heikki started as a shareholder in Norfit in 2014, and in 2022 he finally acquired the entire company’s shareholding. After Owatec purchased the company to develop a turnkey service concept, Heikki continued as the company’s CEO.

In his free time, Heikki’s most valued pastimes are bird hunting and fishing—perhaps his next ”10” will be a 10 kg salmon, as his biggest catch so far has been nine kilograms.

Overcoming Challenges by Developing Company Operations and Personal Growth

Like any startup, Norfit (now Owatec Service) faced some rocks on the road in its early days. Even though there was a lot of work to do, money was one source of stress, and the COVID-19 pandemic nearly halted operations altogether. “During the lockdowns, I seriously considered shutting everything down,” Heikki admits. Despite these setbacks, the team’s resilience shone through, staying true to the company’s Stubborn – value.

In early 2022, Heikki took full ownership of the company. He successfully turned the business around in just one year through dedication and a clear vision. “It was surprising how quickly we made the company profitable again with the right motivation,” he reflects. This marked the beginning of a new chapter for us, where growth and transformation became the focus.

Over the past decade, the company’s business model has shifted, adapting successfully to changing market demands. What began as a business centered around maintenance contracts has evolved into one that now thrives on project-based work. This transformation has stabilized operations and positioned the company for long-term growth. With each milestone, the company’s vision expands, and its potential only grows stronger.

Leading Norfit, and later Owatec Service has been a journey of personal and professional growth for Heikki. Patience, a skill he has developed over time, has become central to his leadership style. “I’ve always been a numbers-first leader, but I think I’ve become more of a people leader and more patient over the years,” Heikki shares. His motivation comes from knowing that Owatec has vast potential—not just in Oulu, but across Finland. This ambition drives his commitment to expanding the company’s presence in the cleantech industry too.

“The future looks bright, and our next immediate goal is to find a larger facility for us.”

For Owatec Service, growth is not just an aspiration—it’s a necessary step toward scaling operations and making a greater impact in the circular economy. At the heart of this growth is the team. Heikki knows that the company’s strength lies in its people, and he encourages every employee to have a voice in shaping how the company operates. ”Everyone has the chance to make a difference,” he says. With a strong foundation and an engaged team, Owatec Service is ready to embrace the future. Through the highs and lows, Heikki’s vision continues to guide the company, ensuring that it remains a pioneering force in the circular economy.