Kajaani extends city manager recruitment after 38 applicants deemed insufficient

The city of Kajaani will extend its recruitment period for a new city manager after the initial pool of 38 applicants failed to yield a suitable candidate, reports Finnish public broadcaster Yle. The hiring committee has called for additional applicants to ensure a broader selection for what is described as “Kainuu’s most significant public office.”

Jari Tolonen, who had led Kajaani for over 16 years, resigned in January, prompting the search for his successor. The initial application period ran from February to March, attracting 38 candidates—one of whom later withdrew. Seven applicants were shortlisted for interviews held on March 23.

Following the interviews, the recruitment working group concluded that the candidate pool was insufficient. The group has proposed extending the application deadline to May 20, 2026, with the city board set to vote on the proposal at its upcoming meeting on Monday. All previous applications will automatically remain under consideration.

Minna Leinonen, chair of Kajaani’s city board, emphasised the importance of thoroughness in the process. “This is, in my view, the most significant position in all of Kainuu, and it demands the time needed to find the right person,” she said.

The successful candidate will earn a monthly salary of €12,000, as previously reported. The city has not specified what criteria the initial applicants failed to meet.