What is your name and your organisation?
My name is Obiageli Okafor, and I work at Gradwell Communications.
What is your role at your company?
I am a Product Manager at Gradwell Communications.
How long have you been working for your company/or in the industry?
I’ve been with Gradwell Communications for 10 months and have over five years of experience in product management across multiple industries with telecoms being one
What are your company's USP/key focus areas?
Gradwell Communications specialises in delivering tailored communication solutions designed to empower businesses of all sizes. Our core focus is on innovation, reliability, and exceptional customer support. We provide cutting-edge solutions such as VoIP phone systems, SIP trunks, and connectivity services, all built with a user-centric design to address diverse and evolving business needs. Our commitment to understanding and adapting to our customers' unique requirements sets us apart in the industry.
What achievement at your company are you most proud of?
This year has been remarkable for us as we achieved several key milestones. A standout moment was winning the prestigious ‘Growth Partner of the Year’ award at the PXC Future Connect event. This recognition highlights our unwavering commitment to continuous innovation, collaboration, and excellence. It was a proud moment that validated the hard work of our team and our dedication to driving growth and success for our partners and customers.
What are the key trends that you are experiencing currently in the market?
The telecommunications industry is undergoing a gradual but significant shift as companies transition from being traditional telecom providers ("Telcos") to technology-driven innovators ("Techos"). This shift places technology at the forefront of industry trends, with AI emerging as the most transformative force.
In the near future, companies that prioritise research and development (R&D) will thrive as they innovate solutions to address everyday communication challenges. AI automation is expected to fully mature within the next decade, leading to drastic changes in how we use technology, including the evolution of billing systems and other critical infrastructures.
The key trends I’m observing include the increasing use of AI and machine learning to streamline communication tasks and improve efficiency. Additionally, as data privacy concerns grow, there’s a rising demand for secure communication solutions. Businesses are also adopting unified communications platforms designed to support hybrid work environments, with flexibility and security becoming top priorities. These trends highlight a rapidly evolving market focused on innovation, user-centric solutions, and enhanced data protection.
What do you see as the main industry challenges at present?
The industry is grappling with several key challenges, including keeping pace with rapidly evolving technologies and ensuring robust data privacy and security standards amidst increasing cyber threats.There is also growing pressure to meet customer expectations for seamless, high-quality digital experiences.
Balancing innovation with regulatory compliance and delivering scalable, user-friendly solutions remain significant hurdles for companies striving to stay competitive.
If there was one thing in the industry you would change or want to resolve, what would it be?
I would focus on removing barriers to technology adoption for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Simplifying access to advanced communication tools, ensuring affordability, and providing tailored support for these businesses would empower them to compete more effectively in an increasingly digital world. Fostering inclusivity in technology adoption can drive innovation and growth across all levels of the industry.
What opportunities do you foresee for the sector and women in comms?
The sector presents significant opportunities to champion diversity and inclusion, with initiatives like “Women in Telecoms” leading the way in empowering women to advance their careers. Programs focused on mentorship, leadership development, and equitable access to resources are instrumental in bridging the gender gap and creating pathways for women to thrive in the industry.
Empowering women can bring diverse perspectives, foster inclusivity, and enhance organisational culture, which drives innovation and better decision-making. Prioritising these efforts, the industry can not only create a more equitable and dynamic environment but also position itself for sustained growth and long-term success.
What benefits do you find most beneficial from the Comms Council UK membership?
The Comms Council UK membership provides invaluable opportunities for networking, staying informed about industry developments, and participating in discussions that shape the future of communications. It’s been a fantastic platform for learning, sharing best practices and provides a strong foundation for personal and professional growth, while contributing to the advancement of the wider industry.
Tell me about PM Help, your non-profit.
PM Help is a non-profit organisation I co-founded, driven by my passion for supporting aspiring product managers. Our mission is to make the journey into product management more accessible by providing curated, free resources and mentorship. We aim to bridge the gap for individuals who may not have access to traditional training or professional networks, empowering them with the tools and guidance they need to succeed in this dynamic field. PM Help is all about fostering a supportive community where aspiring product managers can learn, grow, and confidently navigate their career paths.
How has PM Help impacted the product management community so far?
Although fairly new, PM Help has already made a notable impact in its first few weeks. We’ve attracted over 60 users from four different countries globally, and within our first month, one participant successfully secured a product intern role. The feedback from users has been incredibly encouraging, with many expressing increased confidence in their skills and greater clarity on how to navigate their career paths in product management.
This early success motivates us to continue scaling our efforts and reaching even more aspiring product managers worldwide, providing them with the tools and support to achieve their goals.
