Career Story | Aleksi Maunumäki, Associate, Environment & Natural Resources

Aleksi Maunumäki works as an associate in our Environment & Natural Resources Team. He advises domestic and international clients on industrial and energy projects throughout all stages, from planning and construction to operation and closure. Aleksi joined Hannes Snellman in 2024.

You have a Master of Laws from Uppsala University. How did you end up studying law there?

It was partly curiosity and partly chance. I was drawn to Uppsala for its strong academic reputation and the chance to fully immerse myself in the language and culture. A family member who had studied law there spoke highly of their experience, which made the decision easier for me. Studying law in Uppsala proved to be both demanding and hugely rewarding, and the city’s vibrant student life and sense of community quickly made it feel like the right place to be.

You specialise in environmental law. What made you choose this field of law in particular?

I was drawn to environmental law because of its central role in major project developments, such as industrial projects and mining operations. I first got a taste of the field while working in engineering and environmental consultancy, which deepened my interest in the legal side of these projects. The issues at hand are rarely straightforward, and the regulatory landscape is constantly evolving. While some may find the breadth of the field daunting, I find keeping up with new legal developments intellectually engaging.

What is included in your typical day at the office, and what is your favourite thing about your job?

I usually start the day with a cup of coffee or two. My days involve a mix of legal analysis, drafting, and discussions with colleagues and clients. Being part of a dedicated team allows me to focus on environmental law, which is the area I genuinely enjoy and where I want to continue developing as a specialist. I find it motivating to work consistently within my field of interest rather than treating it as a side topic.

My favourite part of the job is seeing how the legal work supports tangible project developments in practice.

How would you describe the culture at Hannes Snellman?

I would describe the culture at Hannes Snellman as professional yet approachable. I am glad to work with talented and dedicated people, both colleagues and clients, who are among the best at what they do. Working with them is genuinely motivating and pushes you to develop professionally. People here take the work seriously, but not themselves too seriously. There is a strong sense of teamwork, and it is always easy to ask questions or discuss ideas, regardless of seniority.

You recently returned to work from parental leave. How does it feel to be back? Did anything change while you were gone?

It feels good to be back after parental leave. I really appreciated the time spent with my family, and being back has reinforced for me that both work and family are important sources of purpose, and that I don’t have to choose between the two. The transition back has been smooth, and it’s reassuring to be in a workplace where taking parental leave is genuinely encouraged — all parents at HS are supported equally, including six months of full salary during parental leave.