Jouni Palosaari awarded the SME Merit Badge – recognition for long-term contributions to the tourism and hospitality industry

The Finnish Hospitality Association (Matkailu- ja Ravintolayrittäjät ry) has awarded the SME Merit Badge to Jouni Palosaari, CEO of Levi Ski Resort.

The Finnish Hospitality Association (Matkailu- ja Ravintolayrittäjät ry) has awarded the SME Merit Badge to Jouni Palosaari, CEO of Levi Ski Resort. The badge is a respected recognition granted to entrepreneurs and leaders in the tourism and hospitality sector whose committed work has strengthened operating conditions, developed SME business activities and enhanced industry cooperation.

A trailblazer in international tourism
Jouni Palosaari has played a key role in Levi’s transformation from a small village ski area into an internationally recognised destination. Under his leadership, Levi has grown into Finland’s largest and most popular ski resort, with appeal reaching across Europe and beyond. During his tenure, the area’s infrastructure, accommodation capacity and services have developed significantly, positioning Levi as a year-round destination.

Palosaari was also instrumental in securing an Alpine Skiing World Cup event for Levi. His long-term efforts to develop conditions, the competition slope and supporting infrastructure created the prerequisites for Levi’s acceptance into the FIS Alpine Ski World Cup calendar. This strategic achievement permanently placed Levi on the international sporting map and helped strengthen connections with foreign tour operators, media and airlines.

Bold development and long-term leadership
Palosaari is known for his visionary and courageous approach, which has been decisive in Levi’s growth. He has been willing to invest and develop operations in situations where others might have hesitated. Decades of dedicated work and a strong belief in Levi’s potential have been cornerstones of the resort’s success.Levi Ski

Resort – an internationally awarded forerunner
Led by Jouni Palosaari, Levi Ski Resort has received numerous national and international awards. Levi has been named Finland’s Best Ski Resort several times at the World Ski Awards and is the first ski resort in the Nordic countries to hold ISO 14001 environmental certification. The company’s strategic goal is to become Europe’s most advanced year-round ski resort by 2030, and under Palosaari’s leadership, Levi has invested strongly in year-round services, sustainability, lift technology, snowmaking and digitalisation, while also enhancing conditions for families and beginners.