Esimies

Esimies is a Finnish term for a supervisor or team leader in a workplace. An esimiens role is to oversee a group of employees and to ensure that work is carried out efficiently, safely, and in accordance with company policies and applicable laws. The position is typically considered middle management, bridging shop floor operations and higher-level administration.

Key responsibilities include planning and prioritizing work, assigning tasks, and coordinating schedules. Esimies monitors progress and quality of work, provides feedback and coaching to employees, and supports their professional development. They ensure compliance with safety regulations, workplace policies, and quality standards, and they handle routine administrative tasks such as reporting, attendance management, and coordinating sick leave or vacations. Esimies also mediates conflicts, communicates goals and changes from management to the team, and relays employee concerns upward.

The authority of an esimi is usually defined by the organization and collective agreements. They typically have discretion over day-to-day task assignments and performance management, but major decisions—such as wage changes, extensive disciplinary actions, or strategic directions—are typically reserved for higher management. The role emphasizes people leadership, practical problem solving, and process improvement rather than formal strategic planning.

Typical qualifications for an esimi include leadership and communication skills, the ability to motivate and develop others, and a solid understanding of the work processes within their area. Many become esimi through experience and additional training rather than formal degrees. In Finland, esimiestyö is a recognized part of organizational structure across sectors, including manufacturing, services, and construction, with responsibilities that may vary by industry.