Meet Polar’s Research and Development Team: Mari Saviaro

Since creating the world’s first heart rate monitor in 1977, innovation has been at the core of everything Polar does. Our in-house Research and Development team consists of experts from technology, physiology, and data science to keep our devices on the cutting edge regarding exercise, health, and athletic prowess.

We caught up with Mari Saviaro, Polar’s QA Specialist in Kempele, Finland, about how her dream internship kickstarted her career.

Hi Mari! What was your career like before you joined Polar?

I worked in a pharmacy for a long time and then in a warehouse for six years. I eventually got tired of not having enough challenges at work, so I started studying at the University of Applied Sciences in 2017.

WHAT DID YOU FIND APPEALING ABOUT POLAR BEFORE YOU JOINED?

When I started studying, I hoped it would lead to a job at Polar.

I had a Polar device for many years before I came to work here. So when I started studying, I hoped it would lead to a job at Polar.

When did you join Polar?

I started an internship at Polar in May 2018. During the fall of 2018, I did my thesis at Polar and got a permanent job at the beginning of 2019.

What does your current role entail?

My current role is as a QA Specialist.

I am involved in beta and field testing development projects, and in addition, my work includes system testing. My work is varied and suitably challenging.

I am also the chairperson of the recreation team. I really like my job.

HOW HAS POLAR GROWN BOTH YOUR CAREER AND YOU AS A PERSON?

I have gained a lot of self-confidence and learned professional communication skills that are important in my current role.

This is my first job in the data processing industry, so everything I know I have learned at Polar. 

In addition, I have gained a lot of self-confidence and learned professional communication skills that are important in my current role.

WHY WOULD YOU ENCOURAGE SOMEONE TO CHOOSE POLAR AS AN EMPLOYER?

The two most important things: Polar products and Polar people. We have exciting products to work on, and Polar people are the best.

What are the best benefits at Polar?

Flexibility and being one of the first to test new Polar devices. For me, however, and perhaps most importantly, I can make a real difference in my own work.

How do you balance life/work?

Family and everyday life bring counterbalance to work.

I have a family, a husband, and three teenage children. Family and everyday life bring counterbalance to work.

We also travel abroad whenever possible. Thailand, in particular, is a paradise for us where our worries were quickly forgotten.

Which Polar device do you wear?

I currently have a Vantage V2. Usually, I have a beta version of the latest device on my other hand.

What’s your go-to workout?

I enjoy running. I go jogging about six times a week. A morning jog before work is my favorite.

What’s your favorite thing about your city?

The best part about Oulu is the spectacular jogging terrain by the river.

I live in Oulu, a neighboring city of Kempele. It’s a suitable size, with everything I need. The best part about Oulu is the spectacular jogging terrain by the river.

What’s one thing people should know about you?

I am social and outspoken. I enjoy challenges and the rush I get from them. Professionalism is important to me.

Please note that the information provided in the Polar Blog articles cannot replace individual advice from health professionals. Please consult your physician before starting a new fitness program.