Markku Mylly started his maritime career in the Finnish Merchant Shipping in 1973. He qualified as an Officer and Master Mariner in 1980. He later joined the Finnish Maritime Administration where he eventually became Director General.

Meanwhile, Mr. Mylly gained significant experience in development and international cooperation. He was appointed to the position of Executive Director of EMSA in 2012. Among the major achievements of the Agency under his leadership include successful upgrade of the quality management system for inspections and the enhanced cooperation on European coast guard functions.