The Euro 50 Q&A – Roger Blakeway, SCTE

Roger Blakeway has led the SCTE (Society for Broadband Professionals) as president for most of the last decade. During that time he has re-branded the organisation to reflect wider changes in the broadband industry, doubled its membership, introduced training for technicians in the UK, Balkans and India and started new lectures and conferences in the Balkans. He also introduced new categories of membership, opening the SCTE to younger and student members, and championed the award of bursaries for members to visit exhibitions overseas. Blakeway currently represents the SCTE on BSi, CENELEC and IEC Standards Committees and is chairman of the BSi Cable Standards Committee.

Age 68

Education  BSc 1st Class Honours in Physics at Birmingham University; PhD Electron Physics at Birmingham University

Previous positions Technical director, Racal-Oak ’82-’85; operations Director, Westminster Cable ’85-’90; director corporate engineering, Videotron ’91-’98; director operations Europe, Diva ’99-2002; chair of finance & audit, IBC, 2009 to date; chair of BSi Cable Network Standards 1993 to date; president, SCTE, 2002 to date.

Last year’s highlights Signing of an MoU with the government agency Becil, India for the training and certification of broadband technicians and engineers. Introduction of 20 bursaries (flights, accommodation and conference fees) for the ANGA Cable Show for young technicians. Continued growth of the Society into Europe and the Balkans.

Most significant industry development Growth of IP delivered services and the realisation that monetisation is the key for future service offerings.

Goals for next year Continued expansion of the Society and the introduction of new broadband core skills courses.

Industry challenges and opportunities Rationalisation of OTT offerings with ISP and core network providers: developing a financial model that will enable continued capacity enhancement.

Alternative career choice Systems consultant or opera singer.

TV character most identified with Rolf Harris.

Most admired personality Lord Digby Jones: solid, no-nonsense and not swayed by political pressure or opinions. Also he is a Brummie and supports West Bromwich Albion.

Life outside work Amateur radio and photography.