Master of IT – Ari Lehtimäki: “IT develops, prepares, and builds”
Systems Administrator Ari Lehtimäki plays a central role in Raumaster Group’s digital operations, with primarily responsibilities in cyber security and cloud services. A seasoned professional with a strong commitment to his work, he remains at the forefront of the ever-evolving IT landscape.
Raumaster Group’s IT department provides IT services for Raumaster Oy, Raumaster Paper Oy, and Raumaster AB, along with related companies Ketjurauma Oy and Rauameister AS.
The department designs, manages, and maintains the Group’s information systems, while continuously developing its IT functions. This includes ensuring the reliability and availability of various services, proactively addressing cyber security threats, and resolving potential incidents.
"Our operations impact every employee across Raumaster Group daily. We manage everything from Enterprise Resource Planning to email and Teams services. We ensure secure communications both internally, as well as with clients and suppliers", Lehtimäki explains.
Cyber security is at the heart of Lehtimäki’s responsibilities. Additionally, he oversees cloud services, provides internal consulting, and leads his own development projects within his department.
"I monitor cyber security events daily, map out and track cyber security trends, assess update needs and industry standards, and patch potential vulnerabilities."
Navigating a World of Rapid Change
The role of IT has grown significantly over the past decade. Project deliveries increasingly include IT requirements based on specific standards, meaning the department often consults on different clauses all the way from the bidding stage onward.
"Certain deliveries involve integrated operations that combine interactive IT, networks, and systems, each with its own requirements and responsibilities. The growing prevalence of automation further increases the need for these", Lehtimäki notes.
The IT engineer joined Raumaster in March 2005, practically straight out of school. He started in Help Desk, moved on to coding and general support, and eventually to system administration. He has held his current position since 2018.
"To succeed in this role, you need to see the big picture, possess strong problem-solving skills, and have a keen eye on fast-moving trends. IT is constantly evolving, and we must stay ahead of the curve."
A Mindset of Vigilance
Lehtimäki emphasises that cyber security demands continuous vigilance, dedication, and professional pride. Needs can arise at any time, and readiness is essential.
"In this job, you have to view the world through a kind of a ‘black lens’ - you must always be suspicious and anticipate the worst and be ready to speak up about it. It’s a mindset that helps us stay prepared for anything, he says."
Most IT services are provided in-house, which strengthens the foundation for security. Continuous improvement is essential, not only through technical solutions, but also through end-user training.
"I believe IT is successful when we’re almost invisible in the users’ daily work. That means everything runs smoothly, in a way allowing users to forget that they’re relying on IT services at all."
Master of IT, so how is IT mastered?
Ari Lehtimäki, Systems Administrator, Raumaster Group: “Mastering IT isn’t only about technical expertise. It’s about combining systems, cyber security, automation, and user support into a functional all-round system. A true master doesn’t just maintain systems, but develops, anticipates, and builds trust between the technology and its users.”
