Listeds - CEO Sampsa Laine exits Alisa Bank; CFO Kukka Lehtimäki named interim CEO

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CEO Sampsa Laine exits Alisa Bank; CFO Kukka Lehtimäki named interim CEO

Feb 25, 2026

Credit: Alisa Bank: Kukka Lehtimäki

CEO Sampsa Laine has left Alisa Bank Plc, effective today, after reaching a mutual agreement with the board.

The board has launched a search for a new chief executive, the Finnish lender announced today. In the meantime, CFO and Deputy CEO Kukka Lehtimäki will assume the duties of interim CEO. As previously disclosed, Aki Gynther will take on the role of Deputy CEO and serve as interim CEO during Lehtimäki’s parental leave starting March 16, 2026, subject to approval by the Finnish Financial Supervisory Authority.

Alisa Bank Plc is a financial technology company that provides digital banking services to SMEs, deposit customers and partners. The Helsinki-listed lender has been undergoing a strategic shift toward SME financing and Banking-as-a-Service partnerships, exiting most of its consumer lending operations in 2025. The bank reported a full-year 2025 loss before taxes of EUR 2.1 million, as profitability remained under pressure despite strengthened capital adequacy.

“On behalf of the Board of Directors and Alisa Bank employees I wish to thank Sampsa Laine for his contribution in developing the bank and executing its strategy,” said Chair Olli-Petteri Lehtinen, adding that the bank remains committed to its growth strategy and improving profitability.

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Authors

Emmi Laine

Emmi Laine is head of business content at Listeds and our lead for finance and business coverage. She sets the editorial agenda, interviews Nordic business leaders, and writes stories, newsletters, and social content on timely market and corporate topics. Emmi brings nearly eight years of experience from Shanghai's Yicai Global / Yicai Media Group, where she was awarded for reporting on China’s economy, finance sector, and technology innovation. She holds an MSc in Innovation and Entrepreneurship from ESADE Business School in Barcelona and a Master’s degree in International Design Business Management from Aalto University. She also holds a Bachelor’s degree in Culture Studies with a major in Journalism from Stockholm University and has studied Mandarin Chinese and Chinese culture. Emmi is a Finnish citizen and has lived in Finland, Sweden, China, and Portugal.