Hello, I’m Gabriela Styf Sjoman, Managing Director of Research and Network Strategy at BT which is the UK’s leading fixed and mobile communications provider. Connectivity is integral to modern life and nothing in society works without it. It is constantly evolving and continues to provide more and more positive outcomes – for people, businesses and society.
It is my job to decide how technologies should influence how we build and operate our networks to serve our mobile and fixed-line customers.
Collaboration is also key for my role. Relationships with businesses, academia and government are crucial for ensuring BT is always engaged with the latest developments in science, technology, business strategy, policy and society. My team and I also work closely with standards bodies to make sure that the technologies we develop as an industry, can speak to each other.
What do you enjoy most about working in this space?
Oh, I love technology and the greater sense of purpose that comes from working within the telecoms sector.
What’s the most ridiculous thing you’ve done in the name of work?
I was visiting China for a business meeting. We went for dinner, and then karaoke, where I performed a duet with a customer. I am a lousy singer but I added an effect on the microphone and was quite happy with my performance. The following day, my colleague said, “Oh, it was a marvellous night and the customer is really happy you engaged. They especially appreciate people who really can’t sing having the confidence to join in.”
What excites you most about working in telecoms?
New technologies are enabling new use cases, which is exciting. I translate the latest innovations to clients, working at the forefront of change.
What would you like people to know about your work?
Telecoms impact every organisation's business model, at least in one way or another. Connectivity is phenomenal and empowering. I wish that more people were excited about the sector.
Why is a vibrant, flourishing telecoms ecosystem important for the UK?
Increasingly, we are connecting more and more things to our network and as a result, data is flowing through it. An ecosystem that develops research and encourages adoption is therefore crucial. The UK, fourth in the world for generating intellectual property, has a large role to play in this space. Connectivity is essential for economic growth. It is a national asset.
