How long have you been with Telefónica and what is your assessment of your time here?
I joined Telefónica in 1993. Except for a hiatus between 2003 and 2006, I have spent my entire professional career at Telefónica. A whole professional life. And it has undoubtedly been a very positive experience. Telefónica is an extraordinary company. It was one in 1993, immersed in the telecommunications liberalisation process, when it offered me the opportunity to work at Telefónica I+D, and it is one in 2024, leading a sector in a moment of profound transformation.
Is there any project at Telefónica that you feel particularly satisfied with or proud of?
In almost 30 years of professional career there is time for many projects, and many of them I remember with pride and great satisfaction. From my first stage at Telefónica I+D, I would highlight my contribution to the creation of the CNSO in Aravaca. The first time you enter the National Supervision and Operation Centre and see the giant screen that presides over the supervision room, and on that screen you see projected information on some of the systems you have been working on, such as the traffic management system, you can only feel a sense of satisfaction.
In later stages, I would highlight the creation of the international office, already working in the corporate centre, at a time when Telefónica wanted to expand its model of influence on organisations, regulators and governments. And of course I would highlight this last stage in the Public Policy area, which has once again been a great opportunity. It has been many years, many projects, and many satisfactions.
What do you think Telefónica has contributed to society?
Telefónica has always been aware of the role it had to play in the societies of all the countries in which it operates. Of course, it has provided communication services, from voice to broadband, which, as our vision indicates, have made it possible to connect people’s lives. It has also provided digital services on top of that connectivity. But it has also been concerned not to leave anyone behind, and the concept of digital inclusion has always been very present in the company’s priorities. Telefónica has always developed a close relationship with the societies of the countries in which it operates, with their citizens and with their companies. And it has always stood out for its leadership in the responsible use of technology for the benefit of society as a whole.
Where do you see Telefónica in the future?
Leading the digital transformation process, and leading the transformation of the telecommunications sector.
Could you live without a mobile phone?
Clearly not. It’s hard to imagine a life without a mobile phone now.
Help us solve one of humanity’s great enigmas: the potato omelette… With onion or without onion?
Of course with onion. And undercooked.
Nominate other colleagues to appear in this section.
As someone who has been with the company for so many years, I would encourage you to interview some of the people who are starting their professional careers at Telefónica. From my team, Jaime Galán Hernández.
