Professional Summary
Professional Overview
Sami Inkinen is an accomplished entrepreneur, investor, and industry leader. As the CEO and Co-Founder of Virta Health, he is driving the company's mission to reverse type 2 diabetes and other chronic metabolic diseases. Sami also serves as a Venture Partner at Obvious Ventures, leveraging his expertise to identify and support promising startups. With a strong background in technology, healthcare, and business strategy, Sami has a proven track record of building successful, impactful companies.
Experience Summary
Current Role
As CEO and Co-Founder of Virta Health, Sami is responsible for setting the strategic vision and leading the execution of the company's innovative approach to reversing type 2 diabetes. Under his guidance, Virta has grown to become a leading provider of non-pharmaceutical, digitally-delivered diabetes treatment, empowering patients to regain their health through personalized, data-driven care. Sami's leadership has been instrumental in Virta's rapid growth and industry recognition, including the company's selection as one of Fast Company's Most Innovative Companies in 2020.
Sami also serves as a Venture Partner at Obvious Ventures, where he leverages his entrepreneurial expertise to identify and support early-stage companies that are tackling some of the world's most pressing challenges. In this role, he provides strategic guidance, operational support, and access to his extensive network to help portfolio companies scale and achieve their goals.
Career Progression
Prior to founding Virta Health, Sami co-founded Trulia, a leading online real estate marketplace, where he served in various leadership roles, including Co-Founder, President, and Chief Operating Officer. Under his guidance, Trulia grew to become one of the most popular real estate platforms, ultimately culminating in its acquisition by Zillow in 2015 for $3.5 billion.
Sami's career also includes experience at leading technology and consulting firms, such as Microsoft and McKinsey & Company, where he honed his skills in business development, strategy, and operations. His diverse background and breadth of experience have equipped him with the expertise to successfully navigate the complexities of building and scaling innovative companies.
Academic Background
Sami holds a Master's degree in Business Administration from the Helsinki University of Technology, where he graduated with distinction. His academic achievements and multidisciplinary background have equipped him with the analytical and problem-solving skills that have proven invaluable in his entrepreneurial and investment pursuits.
Areas of Expertise
- Chronic disease management and digital health solutions
- Venture capital and startup investment
- Entrepreneurship and company building
- Business strategy and operations
- Technology innovation and product development
- Leadership and team building
Professional Impact
In addition to his roles at Virta Health and Obvious Ventures, Sami is a respected mentor and advisor to numerous startup accelerators and incubators, including the Founder Institute, 500 Startups, Rock Health, and BluePrint Health. He leverages his extensive experience and network to provide guidance and support to aspiring entrepreneurs, helping them navigate the challenges of building and scaling successful ventures.
Conclusion
Sami Inkinen's multi-faceted career as an entrepreneur, investor, and industry leader has positioned him as a driving force in the technology and healthcare sectors. With a relentless focus on innovation and a deep commitment to solving complex challenges, Sami continues to make a significant impact through his leadership at Virta Health and his work as a Venture Partner at Obvious Ventures. His unique blend of entrepreneurial expertise, strategic vision, and industry knowledge make him a valuable asset to the companies and individuals he works with.
