After serving as CEO of CMI – Martti Ahtisaari Peace Foundation for more than five years, Janne Taalas will leave his position following a period of significant transformation and growth for the organisation. The President of the Republic of Finland Alexander Stubb has appointed Taalas as Permanent Representative of Finland to the United Nations in New York as of 1 November 2026. CMI’s Board will launch the process to appoint a new CEO without delay.
“Janne Taalas has led CMI through an exceptionally turbulent period, as war, geopolitical fragmentation, and technological change have transformed the environment for peacemaking. Under his leadership, CMI has successfully adapted its work to a changing world and strengthened its position as a trusted and effective peacemaking partner,” says Marko Ahtisaari, CMI’s Chair of the Board.
“Demand for our work has grown significantly, and, during Taalas’ leadership, our annual budget has doubled from approximately €9m to €18m. The establishment of the Martti Ahtisaari Peace Fund in 2022 has further strengthened CMI’s long-term resilience, independence and ability to respond to emerging needs. We are deeply grateful for Janne’s leadership and significant contribution to CMI and wish him every success in his new role,” Ahtisaari continues.
The position of CEO will be filled through an open recruitment process, and the vacancy announcement will be published soon on CMI’s website. Further information on the timetable and next steps will be provided in connection with the announcement.
Deputy CEO Hanna Klinge will serve as Acting CEO from 1 November 2026 until the new CEO assumes the position.
Media enquiries
Kaisa Raitio
Head of Communications and Private Fundraising
tel: +358 50 338 92 69
kaisa.raitio@cmi.fi
