A career built on learning and possibilities: Marsha Gao's career journey

Turning trust into growth and opportunity

Over the past 13 years, Marsha Gao has grown alongside Valmet’s business in China, building a career shaped by continuous learning, resilience and a passion for helping people succeed.

“I work as a Senior HR Manager, supporting China’s Global Functions with full-cycle HR operations and employee lifecycle management. I also assist business leaders with organizational construction and talent development.”

Her days are a balance of people, planning and collaboration. From internal meetings and talent discussions to interviews and cross-functional alignment, her work is focused on creating an environment where both employees and the business can thrive.

Trust creates opportunities to grow

“I joined Valmet in 2013 as a Regional HR Manager in Xi’an, deeply attracted by the professionalism and excellent leadership of the management team.”

Over the years, she has continued to invest in her own development through lifelong learning, earning MBA and EMBA degrees as well as professional coaching certifications. Combined with her engineering background, this has helped her align HR strategies with business needs and serve as a trusted HR partner.

For Marsha, growth comes from being willing to embrace new challenges, but also from being trusted to take them on.

Driven by a "no limits" mindset

Marsha’s personal motto reflects the mindset that has guided her career:

No limits. Anything is possible. My life is defined by me.

Whether navigating organizational change, taking on new responsibilities or pursuing personal goals, she believes in embracing challenges with optimism and determination.

Outside of work, Marsha is passionate about music, reading, traveling and sports. Her greatest passion is road cycling, which has become an important source of energy and inspiration. The perseverance, discipline and focus developed through cycling have become qualities she brings into her professional life as well.

Trust, respect and openness

When asked what makes Valmet's culture special, Marsha highlights the company's open and supportive environment.

“Valmet features an open and respectful workplace culture. We actively exchange ideas, learn from each other, and share work experiences openly. Most importantly, the leadership fully trusts and empowers every team member.”

That culture of trust has left a lasting impression on her throughout her career. One memory that stands out comes from the COVID-19 pandemic, when demanding schedules and global emergency meetings became part of daily work.

“To ease my heavy workload, my manager arranged a bouquet of flowers and sweets for me, which left a deep, heartwarming impression.”

For Marsha, moments like these demonstrate the care and respect that define the company culture.

Advice for continuous growth

Marsha believes that personal growth starts with action.

“I believe everyone has unique strengths and passions. The key to growth is to take action without hesitation. Once you find what you love, stick to it.”

Her advice is to stay curious, continue learning and take steady steps toward personal and professional goals.

If she had to describe Valmet in three words, her choice would be Trust, Respect and Openness.

Trust is the cornerstone of our team. It gives us the courage to forge ahead and acts as a guiding light during tough, uncertain times.

For Marsha, those values have helped shape a career defined by growth, possibility and purpose.