Role Model Blog: Mari Martikainen, Advania
Mon, 23 Jun 2025 11:56:48 +0000
When young girls see women succeeding in tech, speaking up, being bold, and owning their space makes a difference for them. We need more of that. We, as women, can lift each other by simply sharing our stories, supporting one another, and being visible. Thatβs how we create a stronger, more diverse, and more inclusive tech environment – one where everyone feels they belong.
About me
I am Mari Martikainen. I work as a Partner Manager at Advania, and honestly, no two days are ever the same. My role revolves around building long-term, value-adding collaboration that goes beyond selling products to create competitive advantage and growth opportunities for all parties involved. At the core of everything I do is connection. Listening is one of the most valuable skills I have developed, and it has made a big difference in building trust and strong relationships.
The Beginning of My Sales Career
My sales career kicked off when I was 13 years old, selling strawberries. I have basically been in sales ever since. Studying sales and business felt natural for me. During my BBA studies, I understood the theoretical frameworks, what kind of impact sales can have on a business, and how strategic it can be.
Looking back, I honestly would not be in the tech industry if it were not for one amazing teacher during my BBA studies. My teacher, Pirjo PitkΓ€paasi, had a course where we had the opportunity to go for an internship. There were many companies we could choose from, but she encouraged us, a group of 20-year-old girls, to apply for internships in tech companies even though most of us thought it was more of a βguy thing.β That push changed everything for me.
I picked a distributor company for my internship, and thatβs where my journey in tech began. Ever since I have worked in sales-related roles, like key account manager, sales manager, and now as a partner manager.
I want to give my female teacher credit for me being in the tech field. In my opinion, having a role model makes a difference to young girls. When young girls see women succeeding in tech, speaking up, being bold, and owning their space makes a difference for them. We need more of that. We, as women, can lift each other by simply sharing our stories, supporting one another, and being visible. Thatβs how we create a stronger, more diverse, and more inclusive tech environment – one where everyone feels they belong.
In Finland, unfortunately, I’ve still experienced stereotypes, sexism, and the challenge of having your voice truly heard, especially in more male-dominated spaces. It still happens. Thatβs why I believe so strongly in the power of having women mentors and role models.

Mari Martikainen, Partner Manager, Advania
Working in Advania – a technology company with people at heart
From the very first day at Advania, I felt like part of the family. My colleagues welcomed me with open arms, and the team spirit here is just amazing. I love that in Advania, experts and strong professionalism are the core of our operations. In Advania, employees are valued and trusted, and that reflects in everything we do.
One of the perks of working at Advania is the flexibility. One can choose how one wants to work on-site, hybrid, or fully remotely. Being in the office is energizing. It’s where ideas start flowing, conversations spark, and -letΒ΄s be honest- the humor is great.
Always Learning
At Advania, knowledge-sharing is part of the culture. We have different internal channels where we post updates, insights, and learning materials. But of course, it is also up to you to stay curious and keep learning independently.
One tool I always recommend is Google’s Digital Garage. Itβs full of great (and free) courses on everything from digital marketing to coding. Itβs a great way to keep your skills sharp and explore new areas at your own pace.
Learning has always been part of my life. I started my journey with a Bachelorβs degree in Business Administration, majoring in Sales, which laid the groundwork for my tech career. Later on, I completed a Masterβs degree in Business Development and Leadership. That program was a game changer. I also completed a Management Essentials Program, which focused on core leadership skills.
How I found mindfulness
While I was working on my master’s thesis, I was also promoted to a team leader role. It was an exciting time, but also one of the most challenging periods of my career, mentally and physically. There was so much to learn at once, and I found myself feeling completely overwhelmed.
Thatβs when I turned to mindfulness. I started incorporating short breathing exercises into my day, just five minutes at a time. It made a huge difference. It helped me manage stress more effectively. One technique I still use today is box breathing -it is a simple method, but it really works when things get hectic.
Outside of work, I enjoy the little things that help me recharge -walks with my dog, going to the gym, and catching up with friends.
Quote I live by
One of my favorite quotes comes from Melinda Gates. βThe more you can be authentic, the happier you are going to be – and life will work itself around that.β It resonates with me.
I love TED Talks, but the one I love the most is the one by Reshma Saujani, βTeach girls bravery, not perfection.β It is such a powerful message that I think every woman in tech (and beyond) should hear.
The post Role Model Blog: Mari Martikainen, Advania first appeared on Women in Tech Finland.
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