Obelux Oy today announced the appointment of Tapio Kallonen as Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately. The appointment marks an important milestone in the company’s continued growth and international expansion.
Tapio Kallonen succeeds Obelux founder and long-time Managing Director, Vesa Laakso, who has successfully led the company for nearly 30 years. Vesa will continue to play a pivotal role in the company’s future as Chief Technical Officer (CTO), maintaining responsibility for Research & Development, production, and supply chain operations.
The leadership transition reflects Obelux’s commitment to accelerating growth and strengthening its position in global markets while maintaining the technical excellence, innovation, and customer focus that have defined the company since its founding.
“This is the right time for Obelux to take the next step in its growth journey and expand our business globally. I am confident that Tapio is the right person to lead the company into this next phase,” says Vesa Laakso, Founder and CTO of Obelux.
Tapio brings extensive leadership experience in international business development, strategic growth, and B2B sales. Throughout his career, he has successfully led organizations operating in global markets and built strong customer and partner relationships across industries.
Tapio holds a Master of Science degree from Aalto University, Finland, and a Global Executive MBA from INSEAD, France. In addition, he serves as a Board Member of Photonics Finland, contributing actively to the development of Finland’s photonics ecosystem.
As CEO, Tapio will focus on expanding Obelux’s international presence, strengthening customer partnerships, and accelerating the commercial growth of the company’s innovative solutions.
“I am excited to join Obelux at such an important stage of its development. The company has a unique combination of technological expertise in software, electrical, mechanical, and optical design, creating significant opportunities for future growth”, says Tapio Kallonen.
With this leadership transition, Obelux combines continuity and innovation by leveraging Vesa Laakso’s deep technical expertise alongside Tapio Kallonen’s international business leadership. Together, they will support the company’s ambition to deliver greater value to customers and partners worldwide and strengthen Obelux’s position as a trusted partner in its industry.
About Obelux
Obelux Oy is a Finnish technology company and the world’s leading manufacturer of LED aviation obstruction lights. Founded in 1997 and headquartered in Helsinki, Finland, Obelux delivers advanced, highly reliable aviation lighting solutions to customers in more than 100 countries. Through continuous innovation in optics, electronics, and intelligent monitoring systems, Obelux helps customers worldwide enhance aviation safety while minimizing operational and life-cycle costs.
For more information:
Tapio Kallonen
CEO, Obelux Oy
Email: tapio.kallonen@obelux.com
Phone: +358 50 414 5273