Daily Northern

Nordic News, Every Day

Menu

Oulu files report against former communications director Mikko Salmi over improper invoicing

Tuesday 10th 2024 on 14:03 in  
Finland

The city of Oulu has filed a report regarding former communications director Mikko Salmi, who was recently terminated from his position. Allegations suggest that Salmi improperly invoiced for compensation totaling €36,000 by violating guidelines for tracking work hours.

Oulu’s personnel director, Tuomas Halonen, reported that Salmi failed to submit travel requests and opted for more expensive modes of transportation without prior approval. Additionally, Salmi is accused of violating the city’s hospitality policy by making unauthorized purchases on a company credit card, which included alcoholic beverages at events attended by city staff. According to Halonen, funds from these €80 purchases have been reimbursed.

Salmi received a warning for his infractions on September 16, following an inquiry into misconduct that occurred in June. On that same day, Ari Heikkinen, appointed as Salmi’s successor, also faced a warning. Heikkinen had been interviewed regarding the situation earlier in September. The warnings were sanctioned on the same day by City Manager Ari Alatossava.

Heikkinen’s warning was associated with the acceptance of Salmi’s rule-breaking actions. Halonen noted that Heikkinen’s role as the representative of the employer is crucial to the violations under investigation. Authorities have been asked to explore whether there are any criminal implications tied to the actions of both Salmi and Heikkinen. The incidents in question date back over the past two years.

Source 
(via yle.fi)