Adapting to new places and learning new languages has been a staple of Yogesh Malik’s career. Having worked for the past 18 years in  companies like Telenor in Norway, Kyivstar in Ukraine, Grameenphone in Bangladesh, Vodafone in the Czech Republic and Claro in Brazil, Malik has the best of the telecom operator and vendor worlds to offer.

Prior to his assignment with Uninor, he served in Telenor’s technology and sourcing segment. He has also been on the board of two of Telenor’s operating companies and has chaired the board in the company’s research collaboration with Sintef, Norway’s largest research institute.

Therefore, it goes without saying that his role at Uninor will be guided by his prior work experience. “While each assignment has its own flavour and is memorable in its own way, the five years I spent in the Czech Republic tops the list. This assignment encouraged me to continuously improve and challenge the status quo. It also helped me become more open minded and flexible.”

Interestingly, the Czech Republic is close to Malik’s heart also because his wife’s family is from there.

Malik feels that Uninor’s success in India is built on three pillars – mass market distribution, basic services of top quality and cost-efficient operations.

Going forward, the challenge for Uninor is to build a sustainable operational model and strong organisational structure  in the country.

And how does he fit into the company’s scheme of things? “My current role at Uninor requires me to be an active member of the management team and a member of the Uninor board. Besides, I oversee the functions of sourcing, customer care, technology (network and IT) and programme as well as process management.”

While Malik seems satisfied with the progress he’s made in his career so far, he wishes he had the ability to maintain a balance between work and play. “I must admit  that I am not able to spend as much time with my family as I would like to. Perhaps, this is an unmet goal for most professionals,” he says.

He also wishes to be more patient. “Calmness, as depicted by Mahatma Gandhi and other leaders, is something I wish I possessed to a larger extent. When things are tough, it becomes very important to keep yourself together to face the challenges.” 

Nevertheless, when he does find time, the entire family enjoys outdoor activities. Playing tennis, biking as well as going for long hikes and walks are Malik’s particular favourites.