Vahterus solved the talent shortage and built sustainable growth through international recruitment
Vahterus, a manufacturer of heat exchangers, has seen its business grow to record levels, driven by the green transition. Growth also brought a critical question: where to find skilled pressure-vessel welders when the domestic talent pool is no longer sufficient to meet demand? As a solution, Vahterus began building an international recruitment model that combines responsibility, thorough onboarding, and long-term thinking. In cooperation with StaffPoint, the talent shortage turned into an opportunity – and into growth that lasts.
International recruitment requires trust and responsibility
When recruitment means moving from one country to another, expectations rise. This is not just about an employment contract, but a comprehensive life change that requires professionalism, responsibility, and confidence that everything will proceed as agreed.
For Vahterus, cooperation with StaffPoint brought much-needed security and a sense of control to international recruitment.
“A strong partnership is built on shared values, trust, and open dialogue. In international recruitment, it is not only about work, but about a person’s entire everyday life and future. StaffPoint is more than a service provider to us: they are an essential part of our HR ecosystem,” says Petra Karresuo, People & Culture Manager at Vahterus.
Jenny von Knorring, Director of International Services at StaffPoint, emphasizes that responsibility is not an add-on in recruitment, but the starting point:
“We believe that international recruitment succeeds only if it is done ethically and transparently. We build bridges between Finland and the world so that all parties understand their responsibilities. People’s lives are not something you can play with. That is why we train both our own team and our customers throughout the entire process.”
Diversity brought expertise, new perspectives, and a competitive edge
At Vahterus, international recruitment not only solved the talent shortage, but also renewed the entire company culture. The company now employs around 600 people from more than 30 different nationalities, and diversity is visible in everyday life as enriched expertise, stronger collaboration, and more open-minded thinking.
“A diverse workplace is more creative and more open to new things. International professionals have brought us an enormous amount of expertise and a positive attitude. Diversity is now part of our culture and identity. We believe that together we are stronger,” Karresuo says.
Good onboarding and everyday support are reflected in the employee experience
A carefully planned welcome and onboarding process have helped new employees adapt as part of the workplace community. International professionals have brought energy and a new kind of can-do spirit, which is especially visible in strengthened team cohesion.
“We have only positive experiences of international recruitment. The team has adapted well to the new employees, and the newcomers’ motivation and positive energy are directly reflected in production,” says production supervisor Sami Tikkanen.
A safe start in a new country builds commitment
Moving to a new country is a big decision and, for many, a turning point in life. According to the professionals recruited to Vahterus, the process felt safe and clear from the very beginning. StaffPoint’s support with practical matters related to immigration – from dealings with authorities to accommodation – proved invaluable at the threshold of a new phase of life.
“StaffPoint’s recruitment process was open and transparent. They kept me informed and helped with all practical matters. Even though the idea of moving to a new country felt nerve-racking, I felt safe with them,” says Serges Teuka, who started work at Vahterus.
Similar experiences are shared by Michael Moreno, who moved from the Philippines to Finland:
“People in Finland are really friendly, and everyone is treated equally at the workplace. I felt welcome right from the start – as if I had become part of a family. Working at Vahterus has been challenging in the right way and at the same time rewarding.”
Through international recruitment, Vahterus’ impact extends beyond the workplace: professionals settle in Finland more permanently, often bring their families with them, and help build vitality in local communities as well. In this way, solving the talent shortage supports not only the company’s growth, but also sustainable working life more broadly.
Do you need a trusted partner for international recruitment? Contact us:
You have not approved cookies yet, please provide consent and try again
Petra Karresuo, People & Culture Manager, Vahterus