Bharat Bhargava’s two decades of global experience in the telecom and technology sectors so far has been both enriching and rewarding. He has held CXO positions and has managed complexities of scale and scope. He has lived and worked in countries such as Germany, the UK, Sweden, Singapore, Dubai as well as India, and has led large multicultural teams across geographies and functions. In his current role as telecom partner at EY, Bhargava advises companies across the value chain, and operators, on go-to-market planning, auction strategy and data businesses.

Bhargava believes that the telecom industry is undergoing a transformation. According to him, “While the metamorphosis seems slow, it will be remarkable in times to come. New roles are emerging in the telecom ‘value web’ and business and operating models are changing to preserve and create value. The key challenge is to be able to see through the clutter, remain relevant and help clients place the right bets.”

“With a decline in competitive intensity in the Indian telecom space, things have started looking better for operators. Over the next few years, we will see operator consolidation and/or shift in operating models. The industry will adopt the much-needed cooperative-competition and focus on innovation and enhancing efficiency. Expansion of broadband networks, adoption of smart devices, proliferation of data services, growth of mobile commerce and payments and adoption of the cloud model will shape the industry over the next few years. I also expect to see ‘Indianisation’ of the over-the-top model,” he adds.

When asked about his memorable assignments, Bhargava says, “There have been several interesting assignments that I have led. For instance, taking a company from losses to profit, conceptualising and establishing the largest intra-circle roaming businesses in the country, and leading multiple spectrum auctions are amongst the most memorable ones.”

His typical day at work involves several client meetings, and mentoring teams and reviewing their work. “The days are usually long but interesting and there is never a dull moment. I can’t thank my family enough for supporting me in spite of long hours and excessive business travel.” His wife is a homemaker and she is involved in animal rescue work. Their schoolgoing daughter is a black belt in taekwondo and an avid Kathak dancer. Bhargava likes to unwind by reading and considers tablet and wireless broadband access as a blessing.