Wood Communications’ Keith Mahony delves into the importance of staying ahead of change and how he gets the most out of his team.
Irish network infrastructure and telecoms company Wood Communications has been operating for more than 100 years.
The homegrown company, which was founded in 1924, provides network solutions throughout Europe, and was recently awarded VIP Gold status with Teltonika due to strong sales growth and industry collaboration.
Part of the driving force behind Wood Communications is Keith Mahony, who has worked at the company for nearly three decades – becoming managing director in 2007. In that time, Wood Communications has achieved numerous milestones, including a European expansion.
“I’ve always had a passion for technology and the role it plays in transforming businesses,” says Mahony. “When I joined Wood Communications, I was drawn to the company’s commitment to innovation and customer service.
“Over time, I’ve gained invaluable experience in managing teams, understanding the technical side of the business and implementing systems that allow us to operate more efficiently.”
Staying ahead
According to Mahony, the biggest challenge facing the network and telecoms sector is keeping up with the “rapid pace of technological change”.
“Technology never stands still, and neither can we,” he says. “Change in our industry is constant, and staying ahead means more than keeping pace; it means setting it.”
One example Mahony gives is the changes happening in data storage.
“There’s a massive shift happening in how data is stored, moved and accessed,” he says. “With the rise of AI, GPU-powered cloud platforms, neocloud providers and hyperscale data centres, the demand for fast, scalable fibre-optic networks is skyrocketing.”
However, despite being a considerable challenge, Mahony believes this race to stay ahead is what keeps things exciting.
“We don’t just try to keep up, we make it our mission to stay ahead,” he says. “That means investing in smarter systems, future-proofing how we operate and building rock-solid partnerships with suppliers who move at our speed.”
‘Sometimes the best way to tackle a tough problem is with a laugh and a solid plan’
Big leaps, big wins
Mahony quips that one skill he wished he had is the ability to see into the future.
“Sadly, my crystal ball’s been on backorder for years.
“Until then, it’s about staying flexible, learning quickly and occasionally trusting your gut (ideally after a strong coffee).”
This mantra has yielded some strong results for Wood Communications in the past. For example, Mahony says that the biggest risk he has ever taken was leading the management buyout of the company in 2005.
“We took a big financial gamble in a world that was heading toward a recession, but I believed in the company’s potential and where we could take it,” he says.
Another bold move that he mentions is Alcadon’s acquisition of Wood Communications last year, a risk that Mahony says proved especially beneficial.
“Letting go of some independence wasn’t easy, but what we gained was huge,” he says. “We now have more muscle, more reach and a serious boost across Europe.
“Was it risky? Sure. Would I do it again? In a heartbeat. Sometimes, the biggest leaps bring the biggest wins.”
Trust the process
Trust also seems to play a big role in Mahony’s leadership style, as he says that trust is simply the best way to get the most out of your team.
“People don’t need to be micromanaged – they need to be empowered,” he explains. “I try to create an environment where ideas flow, ownership is encouraged and communication is wide open.”
He emphasises that having a strong work culture where people feel respected, heard and supported will not only get the best out of your team, but will also ensure that they enjoy doing it too.
“I’ve got a brilliant team beside me, and together we push boundaries, solve real-world networking challenges and have a bit of craic while doing it,” he says. “Sometimes the best way to tackle a tough problem is with a laugh and a solid plan.”
For someone who champions the support and empowerment of his team, what’s the best piece of career advice he has received?
“Keep your feet firmly on the ground,” he says. “No matter how well things are going, stay level-headed, think long-term, plan for the rainy days and never spend like you’ve already won the lottery.
“Good leadership isn’t flashy, it’s consistent, focused and grounded in reality. Focus on the fundamentals, stay sharp and keep a close eye on your cash flow.”
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