Product manager in the UK -
a challenging task

After nearly four years at Teliasonera International Carrier in the UK, Jonathan has lived through the rise and restructuring of the carrier business.
- With hindsight it was a brave decision of Telia to dig its own network and today I believe that this infrastructure is where the true value of our business lies.

Jonathan is one of TeliaSonera International Carrier's product managers responsible for the Capacity portfolio, comprising wavelength, SDH services, and optical fibre products.

- Although restructured and slimmed down, we have managed to maintain a very high network quality and over the last two years and a lot of work has been done to maintain the integrity and efficient operation of the network," he explains. "It is in the Swedish nature to do a lot of hard and precise work without boasting too much about it - an attitude which I really appreciate.

Meeting customers

On a typical rainy morning at headquarters in Kista, Jonathan's action list comprises more than 20 very diverse activities. Several short meetings both planned and spontaneous fill the day ahead. Due to an increased level of activity in the market, most meetings and calls are with TSIC account managers looking for answers regarding non-standard services or pricing requests. Frequent discussions with bid-management regarding specific deals and offers to customers across Europe and US are also the norm.

Analysis and practice makes change

Jonathan's portfolio comprises established and stable products, which have to be balanced with less mature emerging products. Stimulating discussions regarding market strategy covering issues such as market segmentation and how the TSIC offering can be adapted and positioned to meet specific customer requirements are always ongoing.

- Analysis of the competitive situation and rival product offerings is another product management task," says Jonathan. "My job is perhaps one of the most varied in the organisation and I really enjoy the challenge of switching between analytical and more hands-on activities. I also meet with all kinds of people on a daily basis, from specialists in the Networks unit, sales, and sales support personnel through to prospective customers.

Respect and openness are key to success

Jonathan very much approves of the over all scope of TeliaSonera to become a true service company:

- If you're ambition is to enjoy work and gain something personally, you will have to show respect and meet customers as well as colleagues with an open mind and open approach to solving problems swiftly and without too much fuss.

An Englishman in the world

Although based in London, Jonathan spends a lot of time travelling - not only for work but also for relaxation, and has travelled extensively in Europe, Southeast Asia, and Central and South America.

When in London his free time is spent at the gym or running the streets of London and he has recently taken up the sport of fencing. Like any true Brit, he also enjoys spending time at the local pub with his mates and of course has a love of football - his favourite team being Manchester City!


Maria Hillborg