Mikko Juhani Keto, Group CEO of FLSmidth & Co A/S, is redefining the future of heavy industry. Based in Copenhagen and backed by a career spanning major Nordic companies like Metso, KONE, and Nokia Networks, Keto brings bold vision and sharp execution to one of the world’s leading suppliers of mining and cement solutions.
As seen in Millionaire MNL, his leadership is transforming FLSmidth into a sustainability powerhouse, delivering record profitability while advancing the company’s MissionZero goal: zero emissions in mining and cement by 2030.
Steering Industrial Innovation from Denmark to the World
Appointed CEO in January 2022, Keto wasted no time in shifting gears. He led the acquisition of thyssenkrupp’s mining division, adding nearly 2,000 new employees and expanding FLSmidth’s mining revenue footprint. The integration not only strengthened global operations but set the stage for long-term, sustainable growth.
The MissionZero Imperative
At the heart of Keto’s leadership is MissionZero, a sweeping agenda to eliminate emissions and waste across FLSmidth’s mining and cement businesses. This initiative spans R&D, digital technologies, and customer partnerships, pushing industry players toward greener operations.
“We’ve committed to developing solutions that will enable customers in mining to move toward zero emissions and zero waste by 2030.”
From site visits in Peru and Poland to hands-on engagement in Mauritania and Mexico, Keto’s global outreach reflects a CEO deeply committed to execution, not just headlines.
Financial Performance Meets Environmental Progress
Under Keto’s stewardship, FLSmidth recorded its highest EBITA margin and net profit in over a decade. Sustainability wasn’t sidelined in pursuit of performance; instead, it was core to success.
The company met its Science-Based Targets, improved ESG ratings, and saw major gains in both business units, cement and mining, marking a rare fusion of climate responsibility and industrial profitability.
Building Culture and Inclusion from the Top
Keto’s influence isn’t limited to operational metrics. He’s a vocal advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I), marking events like International Women’s Day and launching internal programs to promote cultural change within FLSmidth.
“When I had the opportunity to join FLSmidth, it was the opportunity of a lifetime… leading the company through the integration of thyssenkrupp Mining and delivering on the promise of MissionZero.”
His approachable leadership style and commitment to global collaboration have earned him over 9,000 LinkedIn followers and industry-wide recognition.
Why Mikko Keto Matters
Mikko Keto represents a new industrial archetype: one that blends financial mastery, sustainability vision, and human-centered leadership. At FLSmidth, he’s proving that the heavy industries powering our planet don’t have to be heavy polluters.
By prioritizing zero-emission solutions, expanding the company’s global footprint, and championing inclusivity, Keto is building more than a business, he’s engineering a cleaner, smarter industrial future.
