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David Almström
Seasoned Sino-European Product Leader
Professional Background
David Almström is a highly accomplished product and business development executive specializing in the mobile and telecom industry. With a wealth of strategic insight and expertise spanning over 15 years in Asia—particularly in China—David has made significant contributions to the rapid growth and evolution of mobile technology and services. His deep understanding of the entire mobile industry value chain, encompassing everything from IP backbones to mobile applications, positions him as a leading authority in this dynamic sector.
After an enriching career in China, David returned to Sweden, eager to leverage his extensive knowledge and experience to add value within the Nordic region. He is open to exploring diverse opportunities, whether as a line manager, strategic advisor, or consultant. David's remarkable career has seen him named one of the "Top 100 Mobile Influencers" in China by Shoujiquan Magazine, highlighting the impact of his decade-long commitment to driving innovation and new business ventures in the face of an ever-expanding mobile internet user base that now exceeds 800 million in China.
Education and Achievements
David's educational journey began at Dragonskolan in Umeå, where he completed his gymnasie studies. He then pursued further studies at the prestigious Cheung Kong Graduate School of Business, focusing on the role of Country Manager. He also earned a Master of Science degree from The Institute of Technology at Linköping University, equipping him with the technical and managerial skills necessary to thrive in the competitive landscape of mobile telecom.
Throughout his impressive career, David has played pivotal roles in various organizations, showcasing his sharp business acumen and innovative mindset. In 1997, he made his mark at Ericsson, transforming the company's datacom business into a multi-ten million dollar enterprise. His efforts in securing major wins with clients such as China Mobile for its backbone network and HK Telecom's Core Router network laid the groundwork for a successful business trajectory. As Vice President of Business Strategy at Ericsson China, David focused on shaping the future of the mobile industry, exploring new content, and developing value-added services.
David's entrepreneurial spirit shone through during his tenure as a strategic consultant. In 2002, he collaborated with major multinational corporations, including China Mobile, while also co-founding a Swedish startup in mobile services. This blend of consultancy and entrepreneurship allowed him to bring fresh ideas and strategies to the market, driving forward-thinking solutions in the mobile arena.
In 2003, David joined Trolltech to establish their presence in the Asian market, successfully signing partnerships with nearly all major mobile phone and consumer electronics manufacturers across Asia. His leadership can be noted as Trolltech evolved into Nokia's Qt SW team, a strategic component that eventually transitioned to Digia.
As the founder of Tiandi Mobile, David established a strategy and market entry firm with operations in Hong Kong, Beijing, and Sweden. His experience also encompassed leading global product management initiatives at Telenor Digital in 2017 and 2018, overseeing innovation and governance within the organization. More recently, David has taken on the role of heading Voi's Product team, where he is instrumental in driving a product strategy designed to uphold and extend Voi's leadership position in Europe.
Achievements
David Almström's remarkable career is defined by a series of notable achievements and leadership roles that demonstrate his commitment to advancing the mobile and telecom industries. His work has consistently centered around leveraging technology to create value, engage customers, and propel user experiences forward. Here are some of his significant achievements:
- Transformative Leadership at Ericsson: Amplified the datacom business to a multi-ten million dollar enterprise and successfully completed major projects with leading telecommunications operators.
- Top 100 Mobile Influencers: Earned recognition from Shoujiquan Magazine as one of the foremost influencers in the mobile space within China, underscoring his impact on mobile industry trends.
- Strategic Consultancy: Provided expert consultancy for major multinational corporations and startups, advising on innovative mobile solutions and strategies that align with fast-evolving market demands.
- Expansion of Asian Market Presence: Successfully established Trolltech's operations in Asia, developing strong relationships with key mobile and consumer electronics manufacturers, setting the stage for future growth.
- Leadership Role at Telenor Digital: Directed global product management practices, contributing to digital transformation and innovation during crucial periods for the company.
- Product Strategy at Voi: Currently leading Voi's Product team in crafting strategies to secure its position as a leader in Europe’s competitive mobility landscape.
- Non-Executive Directorships: Held various non-executive roles, contributing strategic insights and governance within multiple organizations, including Swedish China Trade Council and Tiandi, reflecting his commitment to fostering international business relations and innovation.
Overall, David Almström's dedication to the mobile and telecom industries, paired with his strategic foresight and operational expertise, marks him as a leading figure in his field. His journey reflects a commitment to growth, collaboration, and the relentless pursuit of innovation, making him an invaluable asset in any organization seeking to navigate the complexities of the modern mobile landscape.