Rajeev Suri steps down as Nokia President, CEO; Pekka Lundmark to take over

After serving for more than a decade as President and CEO of Nokia and Nokia Siemens Networks, Rajeev Suri has stepped down, paving the way for Pekka Lundmark to wear his shoes in the global role, the company announced on Monday.

Suri indicated earlier to the Nokia Board's board of directors that he was considering stepping down from his role at some point in the future, provided a solid succession plan was in place.

"After 25 years at Nokia, I wanted to do something different," said Suri.

"Nokia will always be part of me, and I want to thank everyone that I have worked with over the years for helping make Nokia a better place and me a better leader," he said.

Nokia's board worked closely with Suri to develop internal candidates and identify external candidates.

Currently President and CEO of Fortum, a leading energy company based in Espoo, Finland, Lundmark is expected to start in his new role on September 1, the company said in a statement.

"With the acquisition of Alcatel-Lucent behind us and the world of 5G in front of us, I am pleased that Pekka has agreed to join Nokia," said Risto Siilasmaa, Nokia Board Chair.

"On behalf of the entire Board of Directors, I would like to thank Rajeev for his many contributions to Nokia, where he has served with both honor and distinction," Siilasmaa added.

Suri will leave his current position on August 31, 2020 and continue to serve as an advisor to the Nokia Board until January 1, 2021.

"I look forward to working with him (Lundmark) on a smooth transition and wish him the best success in his new role," said Suri.