Pia holds degrees in Social Work and Social Psychology (Master of Social Sciences) and is a qualified supervisor and eMBA. She has nearly 30 years of experience in the social and healthcare sector, having worked as a social worker in emergency social services as well as in various managerial roles. 

Her professional background also includes extensive development work at a Centre of Excellence on Social Welfare, the Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare (THL), and in a range of development projects.