THE MOST EXPERIENCED AI TEAM IN THE NORDICS
Our story
Our mission is to assist businesses in turning AI into a genuine competitive advantage, guiding them from strategic planning to practical implementation.
We are more than advisors—we are builders, co-creators, and accelerators. Whether it is developing AI roadmaps, deploying models, or setting up data platforms, we guide clients from initial planning through to implementation and continuous improvement.
Every client relationship is a collaboration. By combining your industry knowledge with our technical and strategic expertise, we co-create solutions that are not only intelligent—but sustainable, trusted, and aligned with your goals.

Get to know us

Our team
Our team brings together experts in AI, data, and business transformation, each with a strong track record in turning data into real value. Meet the people behind Data Design.
CEO, Co-founder
Mika Aho

Dr. Mika Aho is the CEO and Co-founder of Data Design Oy, specializing in strategic data and AI consulting. With over 20 years of experience, he has held key roles at companies such as Silo.AI, Bilot, and Louhia Analytics, focusing on data & AI strategies, AI transformation, and digital innovation.

Mika has worked extensively with organizations to harness the power of data, helping them drive business growth and competitive advantage. His deep expertise and hands-on approach have made him a sought-after advisor in the evolving landscape of AI and data-driven decision-making.

Co-founder, Senior Advisor
Toni Haapakoski

Toni Haapakoski, M.Sc. (Econ.), is a Partner and Senior Advisor at Data Design Oy, bringing over 20 years of experience in data and analytics. As a co-founder of Bilot PLC in 2005, he played a pivotal role in its growth to over 200 employees and a €27 million revenue before its merger with Vincit Oyj in 2022.

Toni's expertise encompasses data strategies, governance, enterprise architecture, and performance management, having assisted more than 100 organizations in enhancing their competitiveness through data.

Partner, Senior Advisor
Gaurav Khullar

​Gaurav Khullar is a distinguished professional with over two decades of experience in the high-tech industry, specializing in AI, machine learning, and cloud computing. He has held strategic leadership roles at organizations such as Microsoft, Accenture, Nokia, Digital Workforce Services, and Silo.AI.

In his recent position at Silo.AI, he served as a Principal AI Solution Strategist, assisting companies in developing strategic impacts from AI and data. His entrepreneurial expertise includes building and scaling disruptive businesses across various industries.

Partner, Senior Advisor
Mika Laukkanen

Mika Laukkanen, M.Sc. (Econ.), is a Partner and Senior Advisor at Data Design Oy, bringing over 25 years of experience in data projects. He has held roles spanning development to leadership of large-scale initiatives, including interim positions, with deep expertise in designing, defining, and executing AI and data-driven solutions. In 2009, he founded Louhia and led it until its acquisition by Bilot in 2018.

Mika excels in bridging the gap between technical teams and business stakeholders, ensuring solutions are both technically sound and strategically aligned. His ability to translate complex technical concepts into actionable business insights has made him a trusted advisor in the field.

Partner, Senior Advisor
Jaakko Mattila

Jaakko Mattila, M.Sc. (Econ.), is a Partner and Senior Advisor at Data Design Oy, bringing 20 years of experience in data management and analytics across sectors such as consulting, manufacturing, high-tech, media, and the public sector. Prior to joining Data Design, Jaakko led Data Strategy and Data Governance practices at Deloitte.

His expertise includes crafting data strategies, optimizing processes, and enhancing decision-making with AI, focusing on measurable outcomes, regulatory compliance, and maximizing data value in industries like financial services, energy, and manufacturing.

Partner, Senior Advisor
Pekka Autere

Pekka Autere, M.Sc., is a seasoned AI leader with 15+ years of experience in data science, machine learning, and AI-driven business transformation across retail, banking, and maritime. At H&M, he led AI-powered supply chain optimization, generating over €200 million in additional revenue, and launched a demand planning program for further growth.

At S-Pankki, he built a machine learning team, developed a customer value framework as a strategic KPI, and implemented recommendation models that boosted marketing effectiveness. In maritime at Wärtsilä Marine, he led AI-driven fuel optimization, reducing fuel consumption for 200+ vessels. Now at Data Design, Pekka helps clients turn AI potential into real-world results.

Our way of working
Our aim
The goal is simple: help you unlock business value with data and AI. Every engagement is focused on impact—from increased efficiency and smarter decisions to new revenue opportunities. The aim isn’t just to implement technology, but to create meaningful outcomes.
How we work
Work begins by understanding your business—your goals, your language, and your challenges. From there, we co-create the right approach using lean, modular, and scalable solutions. You'll always have a clear path from concept to execution, with flexible collaboration at every step.
What sets us apart
You won’t find buzzwords or bloated PowerPoints here. You get a senior, hands-on team with deep technical and business expertise—ready to move fast, adapt quickly, and make things work in your environment. Think of us as your trusted sparring partner for all things data and AI.
Join our team!
Join a team where you’ll gain experience in both the business and technical sides of AI transformation. You’ll work with experienced mentors, engage directly with clients, and take on real responsibilities from day one.

If you’re eager to learn and want to understand how AI creates business value, Data Design could be the right place for you.

Current job openings

Explore exciting career opportunities and become a part of our team.
Career opportunities
Senior Advisor, Data Governance
Advisory
Help clients build strong data governance frameworks to manage their data effectively and securely. You will advise on policies, processes, and tools for data management.
Espoo (Keilaniemi), Tampere, Remote
Full Time
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Senior Data Analyst
Data & AI
Analyze complex data to provide valuable business insights and recommendations for our clients. You will help them make data-driven decisions and improve performance.
Espoo (Keilaniemi), Tampere, Remote
Full Time
Read more
Data & AI Advisor
Advisory
Help clients use data and AI to achieve their business goals. You will create data and AI strategies and support their implementation.
Espoo (Keilaniemi), Tampere, Remote
Full Time
Read more