Y.t. Kivisaari

Inspiring Global Tourism Leadership through Vision of Sustainability and Destination Stewardship

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About Y.t. Kivisaari


Current Role:
President & CEO, Visit Oulu
Residing in Oulu, Finland and Asker, Norway

Education:
  • On a PhD journey
  • MBA in Leadership and Sustainability – University of Cumbria, UK
  • Master Certificate in Hospitality Management – Cornell University hosted programme
  • Pedagogue, Vocational Teacher - Häme University of Applied Sciences, Finland

Key Experience:
  • Global Ambassador and Board Member for Destinations International
  • Former CEO of Visit Levi, leading destination marketing and sales for Finland’s largest year-round resort above the Arctic Circle
  • CEO and partner in Arctic Hospitality Ltd. developing new hotel investment plans for Northern Finland and Sweden
  • Over a decade of experience in tourism and hotel management, including roles such as the opening GM of Lapland Hotels Oulu and CEO of a renowned arctic glass igloo resort in Lapland
  • Over 10 years of experience opening and running health and wellness clubs, spas and aqua parks

Specializations:
  • Sustainable tourism, year-round destination development, social inclusion, destination marketing, AI.

Languages for talks and workshops:
Finnish & English

Other Languages:
Swedish, Norwegian & German

Expert in Sustainable Tourism and Year-Round Destination Development


I am deeply passionate about social sustainability, destination stewardship, and marketing. Developing year-round tourism is a key driver in my work. As a Board Member for Destinations International, I advocate for sustainability, diversity, equity, and inclusion in tourism globally.

I’m also proud to be part of the team leading Oulu toward its role as the European Capital of Culture 2026, positioning the region as a major international destination.

Downloadable CV in .pdf format
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Receiving Destinations International Global Ambassador Award at IMEX Frankfurt 2023