Technical leadership in telecoms does not require one prescribed route. In Episode 3 of the Women in Telecoms Podcast, the panel explores how curiosity, communication, and confidence can help professionals progress into senior technical roles.
Hosted by Natalie Strange, MD of RPS Telecom & Co-Chair of WiT, the episode features:
- Dhwani Soni – Global VP of Product Management, Design and Operations, 8x8
- Jill Faure – Principal Technology Advisor, Ofcom
- Lucy Elder-Bowles – Network Manager, Magrathea Telecommunications Ltd
Watch the other episodes
- New Women in Telecoms Podcast Series
- Women in Telecoms Podcast: Breaking Barriers and Building Careers
- Women In Telecoms Podcast Episode 2: The Mentorship Gap – and How We Close It
The conversation challenges a persistent assumption: that a technical degree is the only path into telecoms leadership. Lucy built her expertise through on-the-job learning after beginning in customer service. Dhwani entered the sector through design, using systems thinking to make complex technology more intuitive. Jo’s engineering background provided a foundation, but she stressed the importance of translating technical issues for non-technical audiences.
What Does Technical Leadership in Telecoms Require?
The panel agreed that technical credibility goes beyond knowing every detail. Strong leaders can listen, identify the real problem, and explain technology in terms of outcomes.
Key takeaways from the discussion include:
