In the 1950s, Kauko Sipponen studied law and political science at the University of Helsinki as well as Southampton University College and Ruskin College in Oxford, England. In the 1960s, Sipponen served as the University of Tampere’s first professor of public administration. In his research, he particularly focused on decision-making in democracy, regional self-government and citizens’ status in administration.

Sipponen formed a strong relationship with president Kekkonen when he was appointed secretary general at the Office of the President of the Republic of Finland for the period 1973–1976. Sipponen’s career continued in the roles of governor of the Province of Central Finland and managing director of the Finnish Business and Policy Forum EVA. After his retirement, Sipponen returned to the position of chancellor at the University of Tampere.