The ITI operates through a global network of Sections that bring professional development opportunities to members in their local regions. Each Section is guided by a dedicated Leadership Team responsible for implementing the ITI’s educational initiatives, fostering community engagement, and promoting excellence in implant dentistry.
In this new feature, the ITI Blog takes a 360° look at both the personal and professional lives of the dedicated leadership teams who drive the ITI’s mission in their respective regions. We’ll explore their professional journeys, their motivations for joining the ITI, and gain insights into the people behind the titles.
Let’s meet the team behind the ITI Section Finland
Leadership Insights: Q&A with the Finaland Section Team
In this issue, we interview Dr. Dr. Jenni Hjerppe (Chair), Dr. Karita Nylund (Education Delegate & Study Club Coordinator), Dr. Iiro Linko (Communications Officer / YITI Delegate), and Petri Hartikainen (Section Manager).
What inspired you to join the Section Leadership Team?
Dr. Jenni Hjerppe (Chair): It was both a great honor and a surprise to be asked. For me, it’s a privilege to contribute to the ITI and its mission in Finland.
Dr. Karita Nylund (Education Delegate & Study Club Coordinator): I was honored to join and saw it as an opportunity to strengthen collaboration and promote education.
Dr. Iiro Linko (Communications Officer / YITI Delegate): I wanted to help give younger members a voice and bring fresh perspectives into the Section’s activities.
Dr. Jenni Hjerppe, Chair
Educational Background: Specialist in Prosthodontics, University of Helsinki
Current Position: Chair, ITI Section Finland; practicing prosthodontist
Professional Experience: 20 years of expertise in dentistry, with specialization in prosthodontics and implant dentistry.
ITI Involvement: Member since 2012, Fellow; active in leadership, now Chair of the Section.
Fun Fact: Former synchronized skating competitor.
What project or initiative with the ITI are you most proud of?
Jenni: I’m very proud of the way our Section has developed, with an active and growing community of members.
Karita: The ITI Scholarship program stands out for me personally — it provides life-changing opportunities for young clinicians.
Petri Hartikainen (Manager): I’m proud of what we have achieved together in just one year, creating pathways for growth in Finland.
Dr. Karita Nylund, Education Delegate & Study Club Coordinator
Educational Background: PhD, Specialist in Periodontology
Current Position: Education Delegate and Study Club Coordinator, ITI Section Finland; Deputy Chief Dentist, supervisor and trainer for young dentists.
Professional Experience: Extensive experience in periodontology, supervision, and clinical research.
ITI Involvement: Member since 2012, Fellow; active Study Club Director and Section leader.
Fun Fact: Enjoys flamenco dancing, dog walking, and family time.
What advice would you give to professionals considering involvement with the ITI?
Karita: ITI offers high-quality education, research, and an inspiring network. If you want to grow, join a Study Club and take part!
Jenni: ITI is the best investment for your career when it comes to evidence-based learning and networking.
Iiro: Keep an open mind and join. You’ll gain access to the best practices and a supportive community.
Dr. Iiro Linko, Communications Officer / Young ITI Coordinator
Educational Background: Dentist, University of Helsinki (2009); Specialist in Prosthodontics and Implant Dentistry
Current Position: Communications Officer / YITI Delegate, ITI Section Finland
Professional Experience: 15 years in implant dentistry, with a strong focus on communications and community building.
ITI Involvement: Member for several years; now Comms Officer and YITI Delegate.
Fun Fact: Passionate about orienteering in his free time.
Which ITI core values do you most strongly identify with and why?
Jenni: Setting the standard — our patients deserve the very best, and that is what ITI education provides.
Karita: For me, scientific background is essential. Evidence is the foundation for advancing our field.
Iiro: Patients are always at the center of what we do. Evidence-based care is key to ensuring the best outcomes.
Petri: Champions of care — the human element of our work is what makes it meaningful.
Petri Hartikainen, Section Manager
Educational Background: Physiotherapist, MBA in Health Care Management
Current Position: Section Manager, ITI Section Finland
Professional Experience: Over 30 years in health care, with 20 years in management and dental industry experience.
ITI Involvement: Joined as Section Manager in August 2024, supporting operations and strategy.
Fun Fact: Loves traveling across Europe in a campervan with his wife.
Share something interesting about yourself outside your professional life.
Karita: My hobbies include flamenco dancing, walking my dogs, and spending time with family.
Jenni: I used to compete in synchronized skating — a true Finnish passion!
Iiro: I love orienteering in my free time — navigating forests and maps is my way of relaxing.
Petri: I’m married to a Czech woman, and we love taking our campervan across Europe together.
The Finland leadership team exemplifies the ITI’s commitment to excellence in implant dentistry through education, research, and community building. Their diverse backgrounds and shared passion for advancement in the field continue to drive the Section’s growth and impact across the region.
Stay tuned for our next Section Spotlight, where we’ll introduce you to more of the ITI sections.
