Former Elisa Esports Founder to Drive Regional Growth and Global Data Monetization from Dubai Hub
Global esports and youth entertainment giant NODWIN Gaming has officially appointed Teemu Koski as Chief Executive Officer of NODWIN Gaming MENA, effective July 1, 2026.
In his new role, Koski will spearhead strategy, day-to-day operations, business development, and market expansion across the rapidly growing Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. Reporting directly to Merlin Wiedeking, CEO of NODWIN Gaming International, Koski will also maintain global oversight of the company’s lucrative data monetization business alongside his regional leadership responsibilities.
Strategic Continuity: Promoting from Within
Koski is uniquely positioned to lead the MENA division, having joined NODWIN Gaming in August 2025 as Chief Business Officer for the region. During his tenure, he played a central role in scaling the company’s regional footprint by developing commercial growth initiatives, securing key strategic partnerships, and advancing NODWIN’s data operations alongside major game publishers, media rights holders, and technology partners.
Koski’s extensive background includes over 15 years at telecommunications giant Elisa Corporation, where he notably founded and managed Elisa Esports before transitioning into the international gaming arena.
Executive Profile: Teemu Koski
| Metric / Parameter | Profile & Strategic Alignment |
| New Corporate Title | CEO, NODWIN Gaming MENA |
| Effective Date | July 1, 2026 |
| Reporting Line | Merlin Wiedeking (CEO, NODWIN Gaming International) |
| Primary Mandate | Strategy, operations, business development, and market expansion |
| Additional Mandate | Head of Global Data Monetization |
| Key Past Experience | Founder and Head of Elisa Esports (Elisa Corporation) |
Executive Commentary: Unlocking Value in a Defining Era for Gaming
NODWIN’s international leadership emphasized that empowering local leaders who understand the unique cultural and market dynamics of each territory is crucial to the group’s global scaling strategy.
Teemu Koski, the newly appointed CEO of NODWIN Gaming MENA, shared his vision for the region:
“The MENA region is entering a defining period for gaming, esports and youth entertainment, and the opportunity ahead is enormous. Over the past year, I’ve had the chance to work with an incredible team and partners across the region, and that has only strengthened my belief in what we can build together. As we look ahead, my focus is on growing a business that’s deeply rooted in the region while bringing together publishers, brands, creators, governments and technology partners to unlock new opportunities. Alongside leading our MENA business, I’m also looking forward to continuing our work around global data monetization and helping create even greater value across NODWIN’s international ecosystem.”
Merlin Wiedeking, CEO of NODWIN Gaming International, expressed high confidence in Koski’s relationship-building skills:
“One of the things that stands out about Teemu is his ability to build businesses through strong relationships and a deep understanding of the market. As NODWIN continues to grow across international markets, we’re focused on empowering local leadership that understands the people, the culture and the opportunities within each region. MENA is one of our most important growth markets, and I’m looking forward to working closely with Teemu as we deepen our presence, build new partnerships and create long-term value across the region.”
