In-Business
The CEO Interview
Mike Phillips Chief Executive Officer of Sure Words: Les Able
I
“ ’ve always been fascinated by technology, how it interacts with our daily lives, making everyday tasks easier, how it drives innovation, creativity and solutions,” declares Mike Phillips, who is only weeks into his new role as Chief Executive Officer of Sure. He adds: “Technology is constantly evolving and it mirrors what drives me and that is CHANGE - in capital letters. Change should not be feared but embraced and through embracing it we grow, develop and flourish as individuals, communities, businesses and economies.” On joining Sure in 2009 as Head of Fixed Data Services it was apparent to most that Mike, 41, was being ‘groomed’ for the CEO’s role. In 2014 he became Chief Operating Officer and in January this year was handed the reins to run Sure with all the drive he can muster. Within minutes of meeting him you are left in no doubt of his ambition for the business in a sector which he is passionate about, even as an inquisitive ten-year-old. But a nerd he most certainly is not. So what does he see as his significant achievements to date? “Introducing competition into the marketplace, offering a wide range of products and services: starting in 2007 with mobile and quickly expanding in recent years to become a full service telecommunications operator. Certainly competition is important because it provides customer choice and that drives innovation and value in the market place. In particular, it also enables businesses to innovate their own products and services as well. So yes, competition is a key milestone and achievement”. “We have led the introduction of a wide range of products, services and features which have not been available from other operators before. Last year we completed the full operator journey, with fixed-line
58
agenda
“One all-important belief I have is that you shouldn’t do any job you don’t enjoy. Fortunately, I have thoroughly enjoyed the roles I’ve had in the worldwide industries and sectors I’ve worked in. I very much believe if you enjoy what you do you will drive the best out of not only yourself but the people around you.”
ON THE AGENDA