Markku Koppinen, a retired international business executive, is currently operating as an Angel Investor and Board Director/Advisor, dedicated to nurturing early-stage startups across the UK and Europe. Prior to his retirement, Markku amassed a wealth of experience in top-tier roles within major global organisations, particularly focusing on operational leadership.
In his most recent role as Operations Director at Auto Trader, the UK's foremost automotive marketplace, Markku played a pivotal role in orchestrating the company's remarkable digital transformation from a traditional print-based business to a cutting-edge digital enterprise.
Preceding his time at Auto Trader, Markku served in Chief Operating Officer (COO) positions in various global professional services organizations, including Nokia Siemens Networks, EDS, dunnhumby, and ThoughtWorks. In these roles, he spearheaded the design, implementation, and execution of innovative operating models, founded new practices, developed key capabilities, and drove substantial business growth.
Markku's early professional career was formed at Andersen Consulting (now Accenture) where he started as a junior software developer in Finland. Over a span of 11 years, he ascended to the role of Strategic Programme Director for the Business Integration Competency organization, overseeing 40,000 professionals across 47 countries.
In his current retirement phase, Markku passionately engages as an Angel Investor, guiding the success of his diverse portfolio of 25+ early-stage startup organisations. His main focus is to foster businesses that contribute positively to society and empower female-led enterprises. Beyond his entrepreneurial endeavours, he actively participates in a food distribution charity, where he serves as a Trustee and Volunteer, striving to bridge the gap between food waste and food poverty.
While originally hailing from Finland, Markku has called the UK his home since 1995. In his well-deserved retirement, he dedicates his somewhat limited free time to travel and indulging his passion for sports, with a particular affection for his cherished Chelsea FC.
