FutuStories - Teemu Ferm

What was your starting point before joining Futurice?

I had a strong background in business and management consulting, as well as some experience with more data-oriented work in the real estate sector. What excited me about Futurice was the chance to combine those two sides. Our Strategy & Renewal team has a lot in common with management consulting, but the company itself is very much an IT consultancy. For me, it felt like the best of both worlds: I could build on my business skills while also delving deeper into learning about data and AI.

So, the role was as much about growth as it was about fit?

Definitely. I wanted to be at the forefront of what’s happening in AI and data, and at the same time, keep applying the business and process knowledge I already had. In some industries, like real estate, where I’d worked before, you mostly learn about the industry itself. At Futurice, I saw the opportunity to deepen my technical expertise in a sector-independent context without losing that bigger-picture business perspective.

How has that growth played out for you?

Much faster than I expected. When I joined, I would’ve called myself an AI enthusiast. A year and a half later, I feel comfortable calling myself an AI expert. That’s because the projects I’ve worked on have all had an AI angle, and I’ve been able to both learn and apply new technical skills in real client contexts. At the same time, I’ve been able to use my business background to connect the dots between technology and strategy.

What makes that kind of development possible here?

The culture, without a doubt. You’re not put in a box. If you’re curious about a new technical skill – or, for someone with a technical background, about understanding the business side – you’re encouraged to pursue it. Curiosity and initiative aren’t just buzzwords here; they’re genuinely valued. If you want to take ownership and drive your own growth, Futurice gives you the space and the support.

How do you see learning show up in your projects?

Many clients come to us looking specifically for AI and data expertise, so nearly every project has some connection to these areas. It means you’re constantly exposed to new contexts. And because AI is still new for many companies, everything you learn can be applied directly. For me, the most exciting part has been finding a niche at the intersection of technical skills and business insight – that’s a combination where I feel like I can make a real difference for clients.

And what about outside of work?

I’m into climbing, badminton, and running. One of the fun parts is that we also have clubs for climbing and badminton at Futurice, so I get to share those hobbies with colleagues, too. It’s a great way to build community outside of projects, especially since I've been working at clients’ premises a lot lately.

For climbing, I have a project I’m working on: completing the legendary Via Dolorosa in the Meilahti area of Helsinki. I’m 99% sure I can make it next summer. That’s my official, data-backed opinion as an analyst.

Any advice for someone considering Futurice?

You don’t need to be a seasoned expert to join. What matters is the drive to grow, whether that means deepening your technical expertise or learning to see the bigger business picture. If you bring curiosity and initiative, Futurice is the kind of place where you can become the best version of yourself.

Curious about combining business insight and AI like Teemu?

His journey shows how Futurice supports growth at the intersection of strategy and technology. We’re now looking for a Business Insight & AI Consultant to join our team and shape the future with data, AI, and business consulting.

Check out the role and apply here