Case Study: Valmet builds a future leadership pipeline with SHL's High-Potential Solution

Valmet Corporation needed to ensure it had a pipeline of future leaders who would grow the company

Valmet, a global developer and supplier of technologies, automation, and services for the pulp, paper, and energy industries, needed to build a reliable pipeline of future leaders. The company wanted a fair and consistent way to identify employees with true leadership potential—not just strong past performance—and turned to SHL’s high-potential (HIPO) solution to help assess who could succeed in more senior roles.

SHL worked with Valmet to define the traits needed for success two levels above an employee’s current role, then assessed 230 HIPO nominees using online evaluations focused on Ability and Aspiration. The result was a more objective talent review process, personalized development plans, and stronger leadership pipeline decisions; SHL found that only 44% of previously nominated HIPOs were actually likely to rise to and succeed in leadership roles. Valmet also gained benchmarked insights, improved development investment efficiency, and better retention and engagement through more targeted talent management.

Valmet

Hikka Alatalo-Korpi

VP Talent Management