Long-standing CEO of Halton Group, Kai Konola, has decided to step down at the beginning of November 2026. Kaj Väätäjä, President, HydronicS Division at Danfoss A/S has been appointed as his successor and will become Halton’s new CEO.
“Our focus is on executing our global growth strategy, Beyond 500. Kaj Väätäjä brings broad experience from demanding executive roles in global technology and HVAC companies, and we are very pleased to welcome him to Halton,” says Mika Halttunen, Chairman of the Board of Halton Group.
Kaj Väätäjä will join Halton in October 2026 and takes over CEO role on November 1st.
By then, Kai Konola will have led Halton for nearly 11 years.
“Under Kai Konola’s leadership, Halton has further strengthened its position as one of the world’s leading providers of demanding indoor climate solutions. He is stepping down at a time when the Group is growing and financially strong. I would like to warmly thank Kai for his significant contribution to the company’s development and leadership,” says Mika Halttunen.
Kaj Väätäjä joins Halton from Danfoss A/S, where he serves as President, HydronicS Division. He joined Danfoss in 2015 and has 20 years of experience in international leadership roles across Asia and Europe. He currently lives in Copenhagen, Denmark, and will relocate to Finland. Kaj holds a master’s degree in engineering.
“What attracts me to Halton is its deep technical expertise and close connection with customers. The company has built a strong international position and has significant opportunities for further growth. I look forward to working with the team to develop the business, serve our customers and strengthen Halton’s presence in markets around the world,” says Kaj Väätäjä, the new CEO of Halton Group.
Photo for download: Kaj Väätäjä
For further information
Mika Halttunen, Chairman of the Board, Halton Group
Tel. +358 20 792 200
mika.halttunen(at)halton.com
About Halton
Halton Group is a global technology leader in indoor air solutions for demanding built environments, including commercial and public premises, workspaces, healthcare institutions and laboratories, professional kitchens, ships, as well as energy production and industrial environments. Halton’s mission is to provide its end-users with safe, comfortable, and productive indoor environments that are energy-efficient and comply with sustainable principles. The company was founded in Finland in 1969 and remains family-owned to this day. Today, the Halton Group employs over 2000 people in more than 35 countries. The company’s turnover in 2025 was approximately 340 million euros. For more information, visit www.halton.com
