This is the final installment in our Meet the Founders series, and today we’re shining a spotlight on Wille Wilenius, an experienced senior consultant with decades of expertise supporting businesses in the Finnish market and internationally. His deep understanding of the industry and expansive network make him a vital force at Finnish Gaming Experts.
Let’s dive into some questions with Wille.
What’s the story behind how you became a cofounder?
My journey to cofounding Finnish Gaming Experts feels like a natural progression after years of working with some incredible companies. I’ve had the privilege of collaborating with industry giants like Ladbrokes, PokerStars, Casumo, and OlyBet. Those experiences, especially in PR and events, created many great memories and showed me the true potential of strategic partnerships.
When the opportunity came to build something new with Titti and Marko, it just clicked. We had already achieved significant milestones together, and I saw a chance to grow our collective impact.
What makes your cofounding team work well together despite your different backgrounds?
Our different backgrounds are actually our biggest strength. We each bring a unique perspective, which helps us look at challenges from different angles. This back-and-forth dynamic leads to better solutions and stronger decisions. It is not about agreeing all the time. It is about trusting each other enough to explore every possibility.
What’s something about you most people would not guess?
Most people are surprised to learn that I am the proud father of five children, all with the same wonderful wife. While my professional life involves navigating complex business landscapes, my personal life is anchored in a long-lasting and grounded family life.
What advice would you give to someone thinking about doing something outside their comfort zone?
Make the unfamiliar feel familiar. That is the mindset. Instead of seeing something new as a leap into the unknown, think of it as an extension of what you already know. Break it down into steps, lean into your strengths, and trust that you have what it takes to adapt and succeed.
What makes your company different from others in this space?
One thing that really sets us apart is the strength of our network. We are very well connected, not just in Finland but across the international gaming industry. And it is not just about having contacts. These are deep relationships built on trust. They give us insight, open doors, and help our clients access resources and opportunities that others cannot always offer.
What is your long term vision for the company?
I want Finnish Gaming Experts to become the most trusted and respected partner in the industry. This is not only about growing in size. It is about being known for the quality of our service, our depth of knowledge, and the trust we build with our clients. We want to be the first call for anyone aiming for meaningful results in the Finnish or wider gaming markets.
Do you have a personal philosophy on leadership?
I do not follow a specific playbook, but I believe in practical leadership based on experience. I try to empower people, give space for ideas to grow, and lead by example. That means offering guidance and support while also trusting the team to do what they do best.
Have you seen any big shifts in the iGaming industry over the past ten years?
Definitely. Especially in Finland, there is a lot of theoretical knowledge about iGaming but surprisingly few professionals with real hands-on experience. That creates a gap in the market, and we are in a unique position to fill it. Our practical understanding of operations, compliance, and local insight brings real value to the table.
Final thoughts?
At the end of the day, it is all about people. Relationships, trust, and shared goals — those are the things that matter most to me and to how we run this company.
