Ville Virtanen Returns to DNA as SVP of Strategy and AI to Drive Customer-Centric Innovation

Ville Virtanen Named DNA’s SVP of Strategy and AI, Joining Executive Management

Effective 1 October 2025, Ville Virtanen will take on the role of Senior Vice President, Strategy and AI, at DNA and become a member of its Executive Management Team. This move strengthens DNA’s focus on strategic development and AI integration.

Virtanen brings over 20 years of experience within DNA, having held various positions including Chief Technology Officer (CTO) and previous executive roles. Most recently, since autumn 2024, he served as Chief Operating Officer at Telenor Nordics, overseeing the Nordic operations of DNA’s parent company, Telenor. His return to DNA marks a renewed emphasis on leveraging his strategic insight and technological expertise.

Leadership Transition and Strategic Focus

Bjørn Taale Sandberg, the current Chief Strategy Officer at DNA, will conclude his duties by the end of September 2025 to resume other roles within the Telenor Group. He will assist Virtanen during the transition period to ensure continuity.

DNA’s CEO, Jussi Tolvanen, highlighted the rationale behind the appointment: “Ville’s strong strategic capabilities and technology background make him the ideal fit for this role, particularly as it involves advancing AI initiatives across the company.”

Virtanen’s Vision for DNA

Returning to a familiar environment, Virtanen emphasized his commitment to building on DNA’s existing strengths. He said, “With decades of experience at DNA, I understand the company culture and team well. Focusing on AI and strategic choices will help us enhance customer service and operational efficiency.”

He pointed out that AI plays a central role in DNA’s evolution, supporting areas such as infrastructure management, cybersecurity, portfolio development, and daily operations. Examples include optimizing energy use at base stations and fraud detection. In customer service, AI tools help personalize solutions and speed up customer need assessments.

AI Strategy and Ethical Commitment

DNA’s approach to AI emphasizes experimentation combined with a strong customer focus. The company also publicly shares its ethical principles regarding AI use, ensuring responsible deployment throughout its operations.

• Broad AI application: infrastructure, cybersecurity, portfolio, and operations
• Energy optimization at base stations
• Fraud detection and prevention
• Enhanced customer service through AI-driven insights
• Commitment to ethical AI principles

Looking Ahead

CEO Jussi Tolvanen expressed gratitude for Bjørn Taale Sandberg’s contributions to DNA’s strategy and wished him success in his future roles within Telenor.

This leadership update underscores DNA’s focus on strengthening its strategic and AI capabilities to better serve customers and improve operational performance.

Executives interested in deepening their AI strategy knowledge might find relevant resources on Complete AI Training’s latest AI courses.