Anastasia Kuzmenko, the Group Head of Marketing and Communications at IEC Telecom is responsible for the global marketing strategy and management of brand communications across the Middle East, Asia, and Europe. With more than 25 years of experience, IEC Telecom Group is one of the leading international providers of satellite communications services. It delivers efficient end-to-end voice and data services when and where it matters most. IEC Telecom works with exceptional application partners, satellite operators, and equipment manufacturers to bring customers fully customized communications solutions wherever they do business. The satcom provider offers a diverse portfolio of products and services for various markets, and their value-added services adapt efficiently to ever-evolving client communication requirements. IEC Telecom Group has offices across eight countries: Denmark, France, Kazakhstan, Norway, Singapore, Sweden, Turkey, and UAE.
We sat down with Anastasia Kuzmenko to talk about her journey and how to beat gender stereotypes.
Aspioneer(A): Tell us about IEC Telecom.
Anastasia Kuzmenko(AK): “IEC Telecom’s integrated approach of in-house design and engineering expertise allows us to develop truly unique solutions that enable full control over customer satellite assets. Our portfolio includes a wide range of satellite products (from handset to VSAT services), solutions, and value-added services. In addition, we offer 24/7 support for satellite-based solutions during their full lifecycle.
“We keep you connected beyond limits” is more than a motto; it’s a strategic vision that is deeply rooted in our corporate DNA. We enable digitalization for the maritime industry as well as remote units on land, where GSM coverage is not available. For urban networks, we provide a powerful satellite backup to ensure the business continuity of customer enterprises.”
(A): What inspired you to choose marketing as your profession?
(AK): “I am a classic example of a millennial, whose mindset was shaped by beautiful concepts of globalisation, enabled with the spread of connectivity. I have always wished to be more than a participant; an influencer in this process. Choosing marketing as a profession was my way of joining the stream. Coming across an opening at IEC Telecom, I realised that I can bring my dream one level up. What can be more inspiring than to connect those who are exempt/had limited access to this essential resource? Today, connectivity is more than a means to send a message or call. It is a driver behind telemedicine, remote maintenance, e-learning, and more. From the social perspective, it bridges families & friends who are far apart. From the corporate perspective, connectivity creates efficient professional networks and improves internal processes, leading enterprises to more sustainable and future-ready operations.
Initially, I was invited in the capacity of Regional Marketing Manager for the Middle East. A couple of months after joining, the position of Global Marketing Manager became vacant too. Considering my early days in the company and the fact that I was fairly new to satcom, aiming for a next-level position could have seemed reckless. Well, the country I come from has a saying, “Be ready to risk if you wish to drink champagne”. So, I did and proved this statement right. I presented my case and was accepted for the new role. The following two years were challenging, but worth every step. I was truly blessed to meet wonderful people on my way, willing to share, listen and build together. When speaking of IEC Telecom, I often say “our family” rather than “our team” as this is truly how I felt from day one. Subsequently, in May 2020, I was promoted to the position of Group Head of Marketing, and as such, became the first woman in the history of IEC Telecom to join the board.”