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Fingersoft reappoints Teemu Närhi as CEO to deliver 'clear direction' moving forwardFingersoft reappoints Teemu Närhi as CEO to deliver 'clear direction' moving forward

Närhi previously served as chief exec at the mobile studio from 2014 to 2019.

Chris Kerr, News Editor

January 30, 2025

1 Min Read
Fingersoft signage hanging outside an office building
Image via Fingersoft

Finnish mobile studio Fingersoft has brought back Teemu Närhi for another stint as CEO.

Närhi will officially take the helm on February 7, 2025, and previously served as Fingersoft CEO from 2014 to 2019. He left the role to step back into the production trenches but remained a member of the board.

Outgoing CEO Jaakko Kylmäoja led the company for around four years and will now join the board of directors.

Fingersoft founder and chairman Toni Fingerroos thanked Kylmäoja for steering the studio through the pandemic and navigating challenging industry conditions–which resulted in the studio laying off 14 workers in October last year (thanks PG.biz).

"We extend a sincere thank you to Jaakko Kylmäoja for his outstanding leadership and unwavering dedication to Fingersoft," he added.

"Over his four years as CEO, he has faced a number of external challenges, such as the pandemic and drastic industry changes, and he's boldly led the company through all of them while developing and launching great new games such as LEGO Hill Climb Adventures. It is a pleasure to continue to have his experience on the board of directors."

Clear direction for Fingersoft moving forward

Fingerroos said Närhi was reappointed as CEO because of his "extensive experience" and expressed confidence in his ability to "form a clear direction for the company."

Discussing his return to the c-suite, Närhi said he wants Fingersoft to build on the success of the Hill Climb Racing franchise while strengthening its studio culture and producing "beloved games."

About the Author

Chris Kerr

News Editor, GameDeveloper.com

Game Developer news editor Chris Kerr is an award-winning journalist and reporter with over a decade of experience in the game industry. His byline has appeared in notable print and digital publications including Edge, Stuff, Wireframe, International Business Times, and PocketGamer.biz. Throughout his career, Chris has covered major industry events including GDC, PAX Australia, Gamescom, Paris Games Week, and Develop Brighton. He has featured on the judging panel at The Develop Star Awards on multiple occasions and appeared on BBC Radio 5 Live to discuss breaking news.

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