scte member focus
Have you had any mentors over the course of your career and if so, HOW did they help you? I am not a fan of the word ‘mentor’ as it implies this is someone more senior than you, whether in age or responsibility. Over our careers we all have good and poor managers as we have good and underperforming subordinates – but we can learn from all of them – whether it is through their incompetence or brilliance. Over 20 years ago, one manager of mine showed incredible faith in my capabilities (which I never dreamed I had) and asked me to employ 5 sales managers in Europe over a period of 6 months. It is quite rare to have this opportunity and it was a fantastic period for my growth, both personal and professional. Apart from that I would say my best mentors have been my customers, co-vendors, colleagues and the people working for me. Whenever I have a challenging decision to make I always talk it through with people I trust, whatever their position and whether within or outside my organisation. What would you tell a young entrant just about to get started in this industry?
any other comments?
Do not rush your career – you can be ambitious but take your time and find enjoyment in what you do.
One thing I have always enjoyed is bringing different people/ideas/cultures together so that they can mutually learn and appreciate each other. A couple of years ago we managed to get the Openreach MDU team over to Paris to undestand how Orange managed this complex and tricky side of deployment. I ended up taking Openreach and our Orange guide to my kids’ flats in Paris so that they could see the complete MDU access network up to the subscriber connection. (Obtaining offical way leaves would have taken weeks) It was a very positive learning experience, but also immense fun. Similarly, I did try and get the French version of the SCTE, ‘Le Credo’, to engage and we did have an SCTE/ CREDO meeting – perhaps you should organise at least a combined SCTE/ CREDO networking event? I’ll leave that with you!
When you get mad at someone go for a run or sleep on it before reacting.
WHAT ARE YOUR HOBBIES?
Perhaps too many – I believe you get more enjoyment out of doing many things well rather than becoming obsessed with one hobby/sport. I have been singing in a Barber Shop group we started in Reims since 1992! I would never have gone down that path if I had stayed in the UK. But it has been fabulous fun.
Join the SCTE!
what are you currently reading?
What’s the secret to a happy and fulfilling work life? Find a good place to live – you have to be able to recharge. Develop at least three activities that have absolutely nothing to do with your job – and maintain them.
The House Divided by Barnaby Rogersen which is a fascinating read on the history of the Sunni and Shia over the centuries and how this has formed the Middle East of today. And Mr Wilder and me by Jonathan Coe – one of my favourite authors. What about current music tastes? I am currently enjoying Self Esteem – so emotionally raw! and Bach’s Adagio Marcello, BWV 974 – so pure!
Never stop learning, whether relevant to your job or not.
Read a book (preferably fiction) once a month – this is excellent for improving your emotional intelligence.
Be curious about the music you listen to; play an instrument or sing if you can.
May 2025 Volume 47 No.2
25
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