After an extensive career in Finnish national politics, Mr Jan Vapaavuori became the Mayor of Helsinki in June 2017 after winning the election with a record number of support. As his first task he set forth a city strategy, laying ground for an ambitious four-year agenda. The strategy champions Helsinki as the "most functional city in the world" with a special focus on sustainable growth, digitalization, global problem solving, creativity and the best possible conditions for everyday life. The strategy also defined Helsinki as a test-bed for start-ups and smart city development projects resulting in an increased global relevance for the city. From 2012 to 2015 Mr Vapaavuori served as Minister of Economic Affairs and from 2007 to 2011 as Minister of Housing. Since 2015 he worked as Vice President of the European Investment Bank. As Minister of Economic Affairs, he played a key role in renewing the Finnish maritime industry. As the Minister of Housing, Mr Vapaavuori created a program that resulted in a decrease of long-term homelessness by fifty percent - a model that has gained international recognition. From 2003 to 2015, Mr Vapaavuori was a Member of Parliament. He graduated as Master of Law from the University of Helsinki.