Jarmo Kekalainen is a Finnish ice hockey executive and former player, known for his extensive involvement in the sport both on and off the ice. Born on July 3, 1966, in Tampere, Finland, Kekalainen's journey in hockey began in his home country, where he played as a forward. His playing career included stints in Finland's top professional league, the SM-liiga, where he played for teams such as Ilves and KalPa. Kekalainen also spent time in North America, playing college hockey for Clarkson University in the NCAA, which provided him with valuable experience and exposure to the North American style of play.

After his playing days, Kekalainen transitioned into a management role, where he found a new avenue to influence the game. His first significant role in hockey management came when he joined the Ottawa Senators as a scout in the mid-1990s. His keen eye for talent and understanding of the game quickly earned him a reputation as a skilled evaluator of players. This expertise led to his promotion within the organization, eventually becoming the Director of Player Personnel.

Kekalainen's career took another step forward when he joined the St. Louis Blues in 2002 as the Director of Amateur Scouting. In this role, he was responsible for overseeing the team's draft strategy and scouting operations. His tenure with the Blues was marked by the successful drafting of several players who would go on to have impactful careers in the NHL.

In 2010, Kekalainen returned to Finland to become the General Manager of Jokerit, one of the most prestigious teams in the Finnish league. His leadership helped Jokerit maintain its status as a competitive team in the league, and his experience in North America proved invaluable in managing the team’s operations and player acquisitions.

Kekalainen's most prominent role came in 2013 when he was appointed as the General Manager of the Columbus Blue Jackets, becoming the first European-born GM in NHL history. His appointment marked a new chapter for the Blue Jackets, as Kekalainen brought a fresh perspective and a strategic approach to building the team. Under his guidance, the Blue Jackets made several key draft picks and trades that helped the team reach the playoffs multiple times.

Throughout his career, Kekalainen has been recognized for his analytical approach to team building and his ability to identify and develop talent. His work with the Blue Jackets has been characterized by a focus on building through the draft and making calculated trades to improve the team's competitiveness.

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