Saara Piispanen

Saara Piispanen is BSAG’s Communications Director. She wants to act in the best interests of nature both at work and in her everyday life. 

Saara has been in charge of the foundation’s communications since spring 2022, and is currently head of the communications team. She is delighted that her role combines communications and environmental issues, feels meaningful, and plays an important role in BSAG’s activities.

“I want to be involved in building a more sustainable, equitable future – a transition that we must all make. I believe that communications can have a significant impact on people’s behaviour, social policy and the state of the natural world.”

Saara has previously developed the City of Lahti’s environmental brand and communications, and was head of communications for the Lahti European Green Capital 2021 project.

Saara graduated as a political scientist, which also explains her interest in influencing society. When she was younger, Saara was convinced she’d become a government official. However, she found herself much better suited to BSAG’s more lively operating environment and genuine spirit of getting things done.

“I get excited about communication actions that might even seem a little crazy – they can capture people’s interest. I want to make new openings and look for fresh perspectives – I’m not satisfied with doing things the way they’ve always been done. I draw inspiration from everything from fascinating people and stories to the world’s most pressing problems and encouraging environmental action.”

At work, Saara relies on the power of good coffee and building team spirit, and this approach also extends to activities away from the negotiating table. Exercise and nature are the best ways for Saara to recharge her batteries. Her favourite landscapes include the Baltic Sea’s rocky coastlines and the wilderness of Lapland.

Professional background

2022– Baltic Sea Action Group, Communications Director

2020–2022 Lahti – European Green Capital 2021 project, Head of Communications

2016–2019 City of Lahti, Communications Specialist

2018–2019 Helsinki Metropolitan Smart & Clean Foundation, Senior Advisor, Communications

2015–2016 Humak University of Applied Sciences, Communications Coordinator

2014–2015 Helsinki EU Office, EU Policy Officer/Junior Policy Officer

Qualifications

2019 Comma – Communication Management Training, HY+

2014 Master of Social Sciences (Economic and Social History), University of Helsinki