1. Having worked at Nokia for over 25 years, how have you seen the company and the tech industry evolve during that time?
I think the biggest change is the shift from voice via SMS to data. Nowadays, data is the most important thing for our customers, and 50-70% of operator revenues come from data.
The data explosion is still continuing, and in African countries, it is even amplified by the increase in users, driven by population growth and the affordability of the service. Affordability is another significant change over the last 20 years. If we consider how many people could afford to use mobile services 20 years ago, it was just a fraction of those who can use them now. This is crucial, as many countries—including less developed ones—are striving to digitalize governmental and community services. However, we still have some way to go to bridge the digital divide globally.
Another related change is the emergence of social media. Its influence is unimaginable.
2. What advice would you give to young professionals looking to build a long and successful career in a global company like Nokia?
A big company has lots of departments and policies, but also offers lots of opportunities to expand your experience. So don’t be scared of what might appear complex. You will quickly understand the structures and your interfaces. After settling in, actively explore the opportunities to continuously learn more. Even after 25 years in Nokia, due to the ever developing technology, I take a couple of trainings every week.
3. In what ways has your experience at Nokia shaped your leadership style?
I think I was not very patient and run to conclusions quickly before. In Nokia I have learned to listen, reflect and ask for multiple opinions.
I have never been a promoter of micro management and I like Nokia way of empowering the people who have the best knowledge of the topic to decide.
4. What lessons from your long tenure at Nokia do you believe can benefit the Finnish Business Council?
I can bring in news and trends from the Communication Industry. Communication technology is behind all those data services, which are a must for all of us nowadays.
I have also been working with people from many different cultures. I have lived in 6 countries in 4 continents and as per Nokia style, had colleagues from tens of countries.
5. We understand that you have a passion for running, how do you balance your demanding career with your hobby?
This is easy! I do my running in the morning, as I can manage my morning schedules (go running 1,5 hrs before you need to leave), but not the evening schedules. You never know which customer call or request pops up during the day.
