From Service Engineer to Senior Manager: Hongli Guo’s career story
From the moment Hongli Guo stepped into Valmet, he felt energized by the company’s industry leadership and open work culture. What began as a hands‑on service engineering role quickly evolved into a fast‑moving career fueled by curiosity, teamwork and a passion for helping customers thrive. Today, as Senior Manager for service sales, Hongli brings that momentum into everything he does – empowering his team, staying close to customers and turning new opportunities into real results.
A passion for learning and a culture that values people have shaped Hongli Guo’s journey at Valmet.
Supporting customers where it matters most
Hongli began his journey as a service engineer and spent seven meaningful years helping customers solve issues and keep their operations running smoothly. Driven by curiosity and a desire to take on new challenges, Hongli later moved into service sales. After nine years in that role, he transitioned to capital sales and led the South Region sales team. Two and a half years later, he returned to the service organization and now leads the service sales team as Senior Manager in Valmet's Automation Solution business area.
Each step in his career has expanded his skills and strengthened his understanding of customer needs. In his current role, Hongli focuses on guiding his team to deliver value added solutions and supporting customers in their daily operations. His workdays are full but fulfilling, as he explores new opportunities, follows business progress and works closely with his teammates to move actions forward.
Psychological safety that sparks innovation
What makes the experience special for him is the team culture. People are encouraged to be bold, take accountability and share their ideas openly. The atmosphere is psychologically safe, which allows the team to bring forward different perspectives and learn from each other.
“We always encourage our team members to be bold and take accountability, and we provide a psychologically safe atmosphere where everyone feels free to share different perspectives and bring forward new ideas,” says Hongli.
He also values the strong support he receives from colleagues across China and other countries. Working through projects together and celebrating shared successes are among the moments he is most proud of.
Hongli’s work contributes directly to helping customers improve performance, advance sustainability and benefit from Valmet’s automation and service expertise. He feels motivated by the positive working environment and the recognition he receives for his efforts.
Hongli’s advice for future Valmeteers
His advice to anyone considering joining Valmet is clear: “There are many opportunities, and the chances are fair for everyone. Work hard and take accountability, and your efforts will be rewarded.”
If he had to describe Valmet in three words, Hongli chooses inclusive, human-centered and innovative. For him, Valmet is a place full of promise and confidence for the future.
We always encourage our team members to be bold and take accountability, and we provide a psychologically safe atmosphere where everyone feels free to share different perspectives and bring forward new ideas.
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