My Bottom Line: Olaf Swantee, EE

Olaf Swantee is chief executive of mobile phone operator EE.

Olaf says when EE first proposed building a 4G network it faced a lot of resistance as it was a new technology and the company did not have the regulatory permissions.

He overcame these hurdles first by presenting his staff with a compelling vision which they could buy into and believe in. Second, he addressed the concerns of the regulator step-by-step, dealing with every issue through constant engagement.

Olaf says when you are met with resistance try unpick every problem and keep asking questions and eventually people will agree to a solution.

Olaf appeared on The Bottom Line which is broadcast on BBC Radio 4 and BBC World Service. Listen again via the download or watch it on the BBC News Channel.

Find more business wisdom from other chief executives on the My Bottom Line website.

  • Business