Turku’s values
The City and its services exist for its residents. Our shared goal is for Turku residents to be satisfied with the residential and living environments and services in their city. To achieve this, we are committed to values that guide our activities every day. Our values show what is right and worth striving for, and what is important to us.
The City of Turku’s values are:
Resident and customer orientation
We value our residents and customers. We provide high-quality and easily accessible services with a positive attitude and respect for everyone. We develop services professionally together with residents, customers and partners.
Responsibility and equality
We operate in accordance with the principles of sustainable development and take responsibility for a pleasant and safe living environment and for both current and future Turku residents. We carry out long-term, effective climate and nature work and safeguard the unique natural environment of our region. Our decisions are based on up-to-date information and are consistent and transparent. We promote a sense of community, gender equality and equal treatment.
Renewal and cooperation
We actively develop and renew our operations and value expertise. We want to be bold, innovative pioneers. Cooperation is based on respect, openness and trust. We succeed and thrive together.
Operating principles that apply across the City organisation’s own activities
Personnel
As an employer, the City of Turku supports the wellbeing of its personnel in meaningful work. The organisational culture is respectful and safe and encourages participation and open dialogue. As the operating environment changes, we encourage experimentation and renewal so that services develop in line with residents’ needs. Through good work organisation and management, we ensure that the city’s workplaces attract and retain employees.
Finances and sustainability
The City of Turku manages its finances sustainably, supporting growth and vitality while safeguarding services. The city’s financial position is strengthened primarily through its own measures. Operating models are continuously assessed and adapted to changing needs. Investments and procurement promote resource-wise growth and vitality. Financial and sustainability considerations are taken into account at all levels as part of core activities, investments and procurement. Decisions are based on comprehensive impact assessments..
Collective impact
Turku works to achieve collective impact. This means cross-sectoral planning and delivering services together. The aim is to achieve more effective and resource-wise solutions and more inclusive decision-making. Participation increases openness and interaction with residents, communities and businesses. This operating model is used to address complex phenomena such as segregation, physical inactivity and climate change. It requires a shared knowledge base and an understanding of the factors underlying these phenomena.
Ownership steering
Turku’s ownership steering is responsible for preparing and implementing the ownership policy during the strategy period. The aim is to ensure that the entire City Group works consistently towards achieving the strategic objectives. Activities carried out through companies and foundations support the objectives of the parent city and create synergies. The activities of City Group entities form a significant part of the services provided to Turku residents. Ownership steering ensures that the Group’s financial and operational resources are used efficiently to achieve impact.
Knowledge-based management
Knowledge-based management is based on reliable, up-to-date and usable information and its open sharing. Information is available to the right actors at the right time and is used consistently in management, decision-making and operations. Knowledge-based management increases transparency, efficiency and continuous learning and strengthens the ability to prepare for change. The aim is to develop services with a resident- and customer-oriented approach. The opportunities offered by digitalisation and artificial intelligence are utilised as part of this approach.
Artificial intelligence
Turku supports the responsible adoption of artificial intelligence as part of meaningful work. The City’s culture around AI is transparent and safe and encourages experimentation and open dialogue. We support continuous learning as technology develops so that services run more smoothly and better meet the needs of residents and businesses. Through clear guidance, we ensure that AI strengthens the city’s vitality and makes Turku an attractive workplace for leading experts in digital technologies.
Internationality
An international outlook permeates Turku’s activities. International connections and networks strengthen the city’s position and support its long-term success. They support the achievement of strategic objectives and help the city respond to changes in its operating environment. Turku plays an active role in European and global networks and uses them to strengthen business, expertise and research and innovation activities. International partnerships support renewal and enable the city to leverage funding and investment.
Bilingualism
Turku is a vibrant bilingual city. We provide high-quality services in Finnish and Swedish and cherish the city’s historic bilingualism. Swedish-language institutions, associations and the university are among Turku’s strengths and key distinguishing features.
Advocacy
Turku’s advocacy is strategic, forward-looking and proactive work aimed at promoting the objectives of the City Strategy and securing the best solutions for Turku. The aim is to strengthen the city’s vitality and finances, improve accessibility, support expertise and the operating conditions of businesses, and promote the wellbeing of Turku residents. Success requires the ability to identify the right opportunities to exert influence, build strong partnerships and act with determination at local, national, European and international levels. Advocacy is a shared task for the entire organisation, based on knowledge, a proactive approach and effective communication.
Communications and marketing
Turku’s communications and marketing support the city’s attractiveness, growth and internationality. Turku is marketed consistently both nationally and internationally. In Finland, Turku is presented as an evolving city full of surprises and enjoyable experiences, growing sustainably by the sea while respecting its history. Internationally, Turku is positioned as a Northern European pioneer in culture and climate action. The objectives of Turku’s 800th anniversary year are leveraged throughout these activities. Communications and marketing are effective and proactive.