Mark Atkinson

Nokia, SVP, Head of RAN Business Unit, Mobile Networks

Speaker Bio

Mark Atkinson heads the Radio Access Networks (RAN) Business Unit within Nokia's Mobile Networks Business Group, overseeing one of the company's most critical areas.


With a strong focus on innovation and profitability, he is responsible for the overall business management (Profit and Loss), marketing, pricing, and solution support for Nokia's comprehensive wireless infrastructure portfolio, which spans hardware, software, services, and solutions. Nokia’s global RAN business generates nearly half of the company’s annual revenue, reflecting its strategic importance.


Mark also leads RAN Product Management, driving innovation in System on Chip technologies, Baseband and Radio products, and Network Management. By working closely with customers, his team guides the RAN R&D organization to deliver high-performance, cost-effective solutions while spearheading cutting-edge initiatives like Cloud RAN and Open RAN.


With an extensive background in telecommunications, Mark began his career in 1997 at Siemens Mobile Networks, now Nokia Networks, as a GSM Sales Engineer. Over the years, he has taken on pivotal roles, including Senior Vice President of 5G and Vice President of Small Cells, where he played a key role in turning emerging technologies into mainstream successes.


In addition to his telecom expertise, Mark has demonstrated his versatility in the automotive infotainment industry. From 2001 to 2004, he held senior key account management roles at Harman International, serving tier-1 automotive customers across Europe.


Born in England, Mark moved to Munich, Germany, after completing his university studies in 1997. His international outlook was shaped by diverse senior roles in sales, business development, and product management across regions including Germany, Southeast Asia, South Africa, China, and the USA. His global journey has taken him from Munich to Beijing, Shanghai, and Chicago, before returning to Munich and ultimately relocating to Wroclaw, Poland, in July 2023.