Laying the Foundation for Connectivity in Global Emerging Markets

In this episode of Breakthrough Labs, General Atlantic's Head of EMEA and Global Head of Climate, Gabriel Caillaux speaks with Vittorio Colao, Vice Chairman of EMEA at the firm. They discuss Vittorio's interest in telecommunications before the industry had taken off; the entrepreneurial spirit that shaped his early days at Omnitel Pronto, an Italian telecom company; the yearslong succession process that led to his appointment as CEO of Vodafone; his views on launching one's career and welcoming opportunities to level up even when not feeling fully prepared; the strategy behind Vodafone's approach to strategic acquisitions that helped expand the company's international footprint; navigating the challenges and opportunities of emerging markets, including the complexities of different regulatory regimes; how to assemble a company board that adds value for both investors and management teams; answering the call to advise the Italian government's economic response to the pandemic as Minister of Technological Innovation and Digital Transition; closing the digital divide and improving access to tech in Italy; the universality concept that distinguishes the public sector from the private sector; the essential role of building a strong leadership team; the importance of listening more than you speak; and how great leaders know when to take time to recharge outside the office.    

Key Takeaways – "In this episode" 

• Hear about how the book, "The Death of Distance" originally convinced Vittorio of the power and potential of digital connectivity. 

• Vittorio's comparison of the benefits and drawbacks of running a so-called challenger versus an incumbent company. 

• A behind-the-scenes account of the succession planning process at Vodafone and Vittorio's perspective on how to develop professionally.   

• Vittorio's perspective on the enormous opportunities presented by emerging markets and the nuance of navigating regional and sectoral differences.  

• Vittorio being called to national service in Italy by former Italian Prime Minister Mario Draghi to drive the pandemic response and his first-hand account of global crisis management, including how to find the best talent quickly.