‘Nadia’s lovely! On the phone she always seems so mature and has a lot of natural authority, and I was surprised when I met her because she’s so tiny!’
Mojgan Manafi is the Direct External Workforces Category Manager for Nokia Siemens Networks in Southern East Africa, dealing with ex-pat technicians on short-term contracts.
In order to bring mobile connectivity within reach of the general population in Africa, NSN have had to think creatively, and offer solutions such as the Village Connection, which gives villagers a mobile identity for as little as $2-3 per month. Given the financial imperatives of the African market, it’s not surprising that value for money comes high on the list of Mojgan’s priorities when negotiating with agencies for resources: ‘Cost is an important issue for us’, admits Mojgan, ‘and First Point supply excellent resources at reasonable rates’.
It’s not just about cost though: ‘With First Point there are no delays, they’re 98% compliant, totally efficient and willing to provide business visas and permits, working with local partners if necessary’.
Mojgan worked with NSN in Iran for three years before moving to their Middle East and African HQ in South Africa two years ago. She’s been working with First Point for four of those five years, but has been giving them a lot more business lately. When asked why, she says ‘They have solutions in countries where others don’t, and they’re constantly trying to improve the services they offer in ways that others don’t, including presenting better, more relevant CVs, and offering good rates and quotes’.
Mojgan’s main focus at the moment is how to overcome the cost of high withholding taxes (15-20%) in countries such as Mozambique, Tanzania, Kenya and Zimbabwe, something she and Nadia discussed during her recent visit to NSN’s South African HQ. Nadia is applying herself to finding a solution, and it’s clear that First Point’s can-do attitude is part of the reason why Mojgan appreciates them so much.
Interview dated: March 2010
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