Workshops and Conference Programme

Take a moment to review the agenda for the previous edition of the event, while we are busy bringing together the content for next year's programme. Stay reassured, it is going to be memorable.

The FTTH Conference 2024 featured 24 expert workshops organised by members, partners and committees of the FTTH Council Europe, plus 16 conference panel sessions and multiple keynote speeches providing the latest insights from leading policy makers, business leaders, technology experts and investors.


'Workshop' day at the FTTH Conference is an unmissable part of our event including 24 expert workshops on a wide range of FTTH and other fibre enabled technology, regulatory and service subjects, organised in multiple parallel tracks by members of the FTTH Council Europe with the support of Board Members and our Committee chairs. No need to book, simply access whichever workshops you are interested in.

<< Swipe to see all tracks >>
  • 9:30-11:00
    Building and operating sustainable and future proof next generation FTTH networks providing XGS-PON and beyond
    Organised by Hexatronic, EXFO, Calix
    Building and operating sustainable and future proof next generation FTTH networks providing XGS-PON and beyond

    19 March 2024 9:30-11:00 Workshop Room 5 Session

    Building and operating sustainable and future-proof next generation FTTH networks require a holistic approach of active equipment, passive network and centralized testing & monitoring of the build infrastructure. Hexatronic, Calix and EXFO will present the combined solution, addressing improved cost efficiency, speed of installation and sustainability. The workshop will show-case how using todays technologies can simplify design, build, validate, activate and operate an optical network that will sustain for 25 years plus whilst achieving optimised CAPEX and OPEX. Attending the workshop will provide you with the following key takeaways:

    1. Evolving active equipment enables a cost optimised network architecture and services to monetize the infrastructure.
    2. Optimised passive network can be used to further improve CAPEX / OPEX, deployment speed and to address shortage of skilled labour.
    3. Centralised monitoring of FTTH networks improves network quality during build phase (implementation) and in operation to achieve the best TCO
    Bo Dines Larsen
    AVP Sales Engineering | Calix
    Markus Eilers
    Sales Director DACH | EXFO
    Ralf Puetz
    Chief Strategy Officer | Hexatronic GmbH
    Ralf Winterling
    Head of Product Management | Hexatronic GmbH
  • 9:30-11:00
    Promoting Subscriber Take-up through New User Experience in the Smart Home Era
    Organised by ZTE, Onivia, A1
    Promoting Subscriber Take-up through New User Experience in the Smart Home Era

    19 March 2024 9:30-11:00 Workshop Room 2 Session

    The global fiber-optic access development is accelerating, and household broadband is upgrading from 100Mbps to a Gigabit.

    However, whilst the number of homes passed is increasing rapidly, there are still major challenges in stimulating take-up and incentivising potential subscriber to migrate from their existing copper based broadband services to FTTH connectivity.

    With FTTH, users are also demanding more in terms of home experience and new services that are differentiated from their services. As the industry's focus is gradually shifting from building networks to utilizing networks, from network construction to realizing network value, all while meeting user needs. The topic will focus on user demand and concerns and explain how to enhance the user experience through aspects such as home networking, technology, and applications, to create a future gigabit smart home for consumers.

    The workshop will cover a variety of aspects, including: the development and packaging of differentiated new services; new mechanisms for enhancing service and customer experience management; the future evolution to technologies that support defined latency and bandwidth services; enhancements to in-home connectivity; and, the potential convergence with 5G broadband service delivery.

    Christopher Mulley
    Principal Architect - CTO Group | ZTE Corporation
    Icíar Martínez Núñez
    Markets & Product Director | Onivia
  • 9:30-11:00
    Maximize ROI on XGS-PON network investment - Exploring the keys to success for technology adoption and operations across the lifecycle
    Organised by Netceed, VIAVI Solutions, DKT
    Maximize ROI on XGS-PON network investment - Exploring the keys to success for technology adoption and operations across the lifecycle

    19 March 2024 9:30-11:00 Workshop Room 6 Session

    In this workshop, we will explore key market drivers and demands for XGS-PON technology. We will outline the best practices, advantages, and considerations for operators to transform their networks to enable XGS-PON success. We will explore backhaul and PON access delivery, activation and maintenance operations while looking at TCO and ROI impacts.

    Anthony Basham
    Head of Netceed DK | DKT A/S
    Marc Helmus
    Director Operations | Vattenfall Eurofiber GmbH
    Rüdiger Schalk
    Head Of Active PON Solution | ANEDiS
    Samuel Bureau
    Director EMEA Solutions Engineer | Viavi Solutions
    Udo Abt
    Consulting Sales Engineer | Calix Inc
  • 9:30-11:00
    Diversity, Equity & Inclusion in the Telecoms Industry – Best Practices
    Organised by the FTTH Council Europe's Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Committee
    Diversity, Equity & Inclusion in the Telecoms Industry – Best Practices

    19 March 2024 9:30-11:00 Workshop Room 1 Session

    Abstract to be defined

    Barbara Tonarelli
    Principal Sales Engineer at Adtran | Diversity, Equity and Inlcusion
    Esra Buke
    Content Manager Corporate Communications | esra.buke@eurofiber.com
    Eva Leconte
    Senior Vice President Global Human Resources | Adtran Networks SE
    John Keaney
    Chief Executive Officer | SIRO
    Marta Wojciechowska
    Chief Executive Officer | Fiberhost
    Wilfred de Wildt
    CEO | Yungo
  • 9:30-11:00
    Making the leap from ESG checkbox to business reality
    Organised by Genexis, Fiberhost, Prysmian Group
    Making the leap from ESG checkbox to business reality

    19 March 2024 9:30-11:00 Workshop Room 3 Session

    Now that most Communication Service Providers (CSPs) have set clear goals for ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) such as ‘net zero’, it’s time to move from targets to actions.

    To speed up this transition, CSPs need to effectively communicate their offers to allow subscribers to make informed ESG choices and become part of the journey. To achieve this, CSPs need support from the underlying value-chain, in a way that is understandable by the consumer and creates a level playing field across the industry.

    This workshop explores the practical problems and possible solutions for enabling such informed choices, ensuring CSPs can effectively communicate this value to the subscribers, and get them on board to support their climate goals and other ESG criteria.

    Dominika Thiel
    EHS & Sustainability Manager | Fiberhost S.A.
    Kajsa Arvidsson
    CMO | Genexis group AB
    Olga Vereshchagina
    Product manager | Prysmian
  • 9:30-11:00
    The race to catch up: potentials for acceleration of fibre deployment in Germany
    Organised by Breko and Di4
    The race to catch up: potentials for acceleration of fibre deployment in Germany

    19 March 2024 9:30-11:00 Workshop Room 4 Session

    Even though fiber deployment has well advanced in the German market during the last years, Germany is still lagging behind in European comparison.

    In the workshop session we would like to provide an overview of the status quo and potential acceleration options such as opportunities to enhance the number of homes activated and possibilities to cope with rising expansion costs.

    Furthermore, we would like to give insight to the German perception on EU legislative initiatives (GIA, DNA) and discuss concrete approaches to remove obstacles to fiber expansion.

    After short keynotes from a scientific and a political point of view, we would like to discuss which measures can truly unleash potential for acceleration in fiber deployment in Germany, to keep investors attracted to the German market and can help to successfully master the race to catch up within the European context.

    Lisia Mix
    Head of Federal Public Affairs | BREKO e.V.
    Cara Schwarz-Schilling
    General Manager and Director | WIK Wissenschaftliches Institut für Infrastruktur und Kommunikationsdienste GmbH
    Christian Vonger Berg
    Senior Consultant | Danish Fibre Alliance
    Nils Mischorr
    Senior Associate, Expert Broadband Infrastructure | Gigabitbüro des Bundes
    Thomas Langer
    Founder and Managing Director | kawikani GmbH & Co. KG
    Ute Hindenlang
    Director Legal & Public Affairs | Vattenfall Eurofiber
  • 11:00-11:30
    Coffee break
    Coffee break

    19 March 2024 11:00-11:30 Break

  • 11:30-13:00
    Empowering Europe’s Digital Future: Policy and Regulation for a Connected Europe
    Organised by the FTTH Council Europe's Policy & Regulation Committee
    Empowering Europe’s Digital Future: Policy and Regulation for a Connected Europe

    19 March 2024 11:30-13:00 Workshop Room 1 Session

    The Policy & Regulation Committee proposes an interactive workshop designed to address critical topics that the FTTH industry seeks to convey to the decision-makers in view of the next legislative cycle (European Parliament elections in June 2024, followed by the formation of a new European Commission).

    Achieving widespread FTTH coverage and fostering high take-up rates are essential for a digital Europe. With a focus on sharing insights from experiences across Europe, the workshop will explore what has and has not worked in different countries, with particular attention to coverage and take-up rates. Furthermore, the workshop will delve into the additional measures needed to accelerate the deployment of FTTH networks across Europe and promote investments (including aspects related to Green Finance). As we move towards a more connected future, the workshop will also address the challenges and opportunities associated with the migration from legacy copper networks to FTTH infrastructure.

    Arturs Alksnis
    Public Affairs Director at FTTH Council Europe | Policy & Regulation Committee Chair
    Benoît Felten
    Partner | Plum Consulting
    Dieter Wolfram
    Regulatory Counsel | EWE TEL GmbH
    Francesco Rotunno
    Specialist EU Affairs | Open Fiber
    Franco Accordino
    Head of Unit, Investment in High-Capacity Networks | European Commission, DG CONNECT
    Wojciech Dziomdziora
    General Counsel and Chief Compliance Officer | Nexera
  • 11:30-13:00
    Climate change in fibre investment
    Organised by the FTTH Council Europe's Investors Committee
    Climate change in fibre investment

    19 March 2024 11:30-13:00 Workshop Room 4 Session

    Climate change in fiber investment: some investors pull out, others race ahead. How are providers, existing and new investors positioning themselves in the face of an impending consolidation endgame?

    Andreas Waber
    CEO at Swiss Fibre Net AG | Board Member, FTTH Council Europe
    Eric Festraets
    Strategic Marketing Director Fixed Networks | Nokia
    Jan Backman
    Chief Sales & Business Development Officer | VX Fiber
    Richard Toper
    Chairman and Founder | Setics
    Thomas Langer
    Founder and Managing Director | kawikani GmbH & Co. KG
    Thomas Miller
    Executive Director, Hamburg Commercial Bank AG | Investors Committee Chair, FTTH Council Europe
  • 11:30-13:00
    How Digitization Enables Efficient Open Access
    The role of IT in Accelerating FTTH Deployments and Operations
    How Digitization Enables Efficient Open Access

    19 March 2024 11:30-13:00 Workshop Room 5 Session

    Jonas Verstuyft
    Product Manager | IQGeo
    Keith Bolland
    Solutions Specialist - Remote Fibre Test & monitoring (RFTM) | EXFO
    Kevin Magueur
    FTTH Expert | Bouygues Telecom
    Niall Halpenny
    Telecoms Director | Sonalake
    Nicolas Vandepuy
    Service Solution Manager | NOKIA
    Patrick Faraj
    Global Product Manager - Centralized Fiber Test Solutions at VIAVI Solutions | Deployment & Operations Committee Chair, FTTH Council Europe
  • 11:30-13:00
    Germany at high speed, keys to accelerate deployments
    Organised by the FTTH Council Europe's Market Intelligence Committee
    Germany at high speed, keys to accelerate deployments

    19 March 2024 11:30-13:00 Workshop Room 6 Session

    Accelerating FTTH deployments requires a combination of technology, planning, efficient processes, and collaboration but costs are rising on the whole value chain of FTTH – equipment, deployment, operations – affecting the relevant business model. How are these costs impacting the German ambition to reach the targets of the European Digital Agenda? Germany has still a long way to go to fill the fiber gap (preview of German 2023 FTTH market data will be shown). Can we limit their impact with new business models? Which best practices can the German actors adopt?

    Carsten Engelke
    Director Technology | ANGA The Broadband Associaton
    Christian Hoffmann
    Managing Director | Accenture
    Ralf Puetz
    Chief Strategy Officer | Hexatronic GmbH
    Stefano Fogli
    Director Technology and Solutions at Adtran | Board Member, FTTH Council Europe
    Widar Wendt
    Press Speaker | aconium GmbH
  • 11:30-13:00
    How Digital Twins may contribute to a faster (and cheaper) fiber deployment
    Organised by Cyclomedia, Open Fiber, Deutsche Glasfaser
    How Digital Twins may contribute to a faster (and cheaper) fiber deployment

    19 March 2024 11:30-13:00 Workshop Room 2 Session

    Join Open Fiber, Deutsche Glasfaser, and Cyclomedia in an insightful workshop as they share practical experiences on leveraging mobile mapping and digital twin solutions for improved efficiency and cost-effectiveness in fiber rollout projects and operations. This session provides a direct exploration of real-world applications, offering a clear understanding of the tangible benefits derived from these technologies. Gain valuable insights into the collaborative efforts of these industry leaders and how the integration of mobile mapping and digital twins has streamlined fiber deployment processes and improves operations. Discover firsthand how this synergy has not only accelerated but also enhanced the overall effectiveness of fiber broadband projects, shaping a faster and more economically viable future.

    Andrea Bassetto
    ICT Director | OpenFiber
    Guilherme Cunha
    Sales Director Telecommunications – Europe & UK | Cyclomedia
    Jakob Kwiatkowski
    Head of Passive Network High Level Design | Deutsche Glasfaser
  • 11:30-13:00
    Network roll-out efficiency: limiting splicing burden and cost with effective decision making tools and solutions
    Organised by Setics, Acome, Optomer
    Network roll-out efficiency: limiting splicing burden and cost with effective decision making tools and solutions

    19 March 2024 11:30-13:00 Workshop Room 3 Session

    With the presentation of different use cases in both urban and rural areas, various types of projects and network architectures, we will showcase how nanomodule cables affect overall costs – starting with design to roll out and equipment used:

    1- Using Sttar for strategic and feasibility planning: Design automation is the process of using algorithms to design FTTH networks, taking into account the diversity of the ecosystem challenges. It can help with feasibility planning by giving you multiple-scenario options using various technologies to optimize costs.

    2 - Enabling massive savings by preventing the non value-added splices Many splices which are carried out on the field don’t bring value at all. They only recreate optical continuity of a cut fibre. A breakthrough in optical cables, called Nanomodule technology, enables to solve this and lead to massive time and money savings. Through various roll-out planning scenarios, Sttar is showcasing where on the network, the savings can be maximum.

    3 - Converting the identified waste of time and money into real savings is a combination of right products and right know-hows

    Michel Ayoun
    Product Manager | Setics
    Nathalie Nassar
    Marketing and Communication Director | Setics
    Paweł Janowski
    Business Advisor | Optomer Meller Rzetelski sp. j.
    Xavier Renard
    Marketing Director at ACOME | Board Member, FTTH Council Europe
  • 13:00-14:00
    Delegates lunch break
    Delegates lunch break

    19 March 2024 13:00-14:00 Break

  • 14:00-15:30
    The Idea of Open Access
    Organised by the FTTH Council Europe's Open Access Working Group
    The Idea of Open Access

    19 March 2024 14:00-15:30 Workshop Room 3 Session

    Open access networks represent a paradigm shift in telecommunications, promoting shared infrastructure, equitable access, and competition. This model allows multiple service providers to share a common physical network, reducing costs and encouraging technological innovation.

     

    However, open access networks face challenges in ensuring interoperability and compatibility between different network elements and technologies. Standardization efforts, interoperability testing, and stakeholder coordination are essential to address these challenges and promote seamless network integration. Convincing operators, institutions, authorities, and end-users of the benefits of Open Access is crucial for its successful adoption.

     

    This workshop aims to explore the topic of Open Access from the perspective of real experiences across Europe. It will facilitate a broad discussion on the current state of play and the potential opportunities that lie ahead.

    Cara Schwarz-Schilling
    General Manager and Director | WIK Wissenschaftliches Institut für Infrastruktur und Kommunikationsdienste GmbH
    Daniel Cury
    Product Marketing | Ciena
    Kristian Olaf Plet Freiesleben
    International Business Director | OpenNet A/S
    Lisa Martens
    Projectmanager FIBER4 | Vivax Consulting GmbH
    Niall Halpenny
    Commercial Director at Sonalake | Open Access Working Group Chair
  • 14:00-15:30
    Close the gap of scope 3
    Organised by FTTH Council Europe's Sustainability Committee
    Close the gap of scope 3

    19 March 2024 14:00-15:30 Workshop Room 5 Session

    This workshop will address one of the most urgent topics for our industry. The discussion will articulate around the following items:

    1. Carbon Footprint Project FttH council
    2. Environmental Product Declarations (EPD) / Product Environmental Footprint (PEF)
    3. Circular product design
    Akim Bohdanowicz
    Product Line Manager ESG | Nokia
    Jeroen Kanselaar
    Manager Corporate Social Responsibility at Eurofiber | Sustainability Committee Chair
    Martijn Rooijakkers
    Head of Products FTTH | Genexis
    Pernilla Eriksson
    Head of Sustainability | Hexatronic Group
    Ronald Hendriks
    Key Account Manager BeNeLux | Dura-Line
    Tomo Bogataj
    Head of Broadband Marketing | Kontron
    Valeria Nunez Alfaro
    Environmental Sustainability Analyst | Corning Optical Communications
  • 14:00-15:30
    The adoption of fibre in the MENA region: challenges and opportunities
    Organised by Fiber Council Connect MENA
    The adoption of fibre in the MENA region: challenges and opportunities

    19 March 2024 14:00-15:30 Workshop Room 1 Session

    This presentation offers an insightful overview of the adoption of fiber optic technology in the MENA region, focusing on both the challenges and opportunities present. Initially, it introduces the current state of internet infrastructure in the region and the transformative potential of fiber technology.

    A high-level market analysis highlights the size, growth, and key players in the MENA fiber market, alongside the challenges faced, such as technical, economic, and regulatory barriers. Conversely, it identifies key growth opportunities, including rising consumer demand and the economic benefits of improved connectivity.

    The presentation discusses strategies for successful fiber adoption, for example, Fiber to the Room, Fiber to the Desk, and other “last mile” technologies, emphasizing partnerships, technological innovations, and consumer education. It concludes with future trends predictions in the MENA fiber market and a call to action for collaborative efforts in overcoming challenges and leveraging opportunities.

    Edmond Ayvazian
    Solution Sales & Market Developer | OFS Optics
    Hasan Barakeh
    Manager / Optical Transport Network | Etisalat by e&
    Paul Weintraub
    Head of International Business | Superior Essex Communications
  • 14:00-15:30
    How AI & Innovative Technologies can improve Telco Operations and Enhance Customer Experience?
    Organised by Inveniam, PSI Mobile, Solid Optics
    How AI & Innovative Technologies can improve Telco Operations and Enhance Customer Experience?

    19 March 2024 14:00-15:30 Workshop Room 2 Session

    The workshop will focus on three distinct areas of innovation in telco and how they are driving an improved customer experience. These are increased quality assurance for customers and infrastructure through machine learning and AI applications, particularly through the augmentation of field technicians driving Right First Time install rates that ensure customers are getting the product they pay for without the need for repeat site visits; a better sales experience through automation with innovations like automated chatbots, better customer insight and personalisation but also an exploration of the risks associated with AI such as privacy concerns; the last segment will shift from AI to focus on innovations on the manufacturing side, with a particular focus on new transceiver formats in Last Mile and FTTH deployment – new hardware is essential for delivering the quality of connection and reliability the industry strives to provide.

    Boris Ilovar
    CTIO | SpeedConnect
    Cheikh Boumedyane
    Chief Customer Officer | Inveniam
    Evan Saunders
    Account Executive & PR Specialist | Inveniam
    Julia Dobernig
    Chief Commercial Officer | PSI
    Saul Alonso Ramos
    CTO | Solid Optics EU N.V.
  • 14:00-15:30
    Fiber as enabler: contributing to the digital and green transition
    Organised by Iliad, Adtran, Eurofiber
    Fiber as enabler: contributing to the digital and green transition

    19 March 2024 14:00-15:30 Workshop Room 6 Session

    The workshop aims at providing a holistic perspective on the fiber business to increase its attractiveness for public and private investors and regulators. Indeed, while it is clear the role of fiber in ensuring future-proof connectivity infrastructures, there is less attention on the potential of fiber as an enabler for the digital and green transition as well as the overall positive externalities in other industries. During the workshop, companies will showcase concrete projects related to:

    • effectively analyze data related to territory and environment and to predict natural events such as earthquakes using fiber as a sensor or the key role which fiber can play in the energy sector (e.g. smart grids);
    • the key role of fiber in driving mobile networks “fiberization from core to edge” to grant widespread deployment of 5G and related applications (e.g. smart communities);
    • to quantum encryption and the possibility to grant the best cyber-security standards in the data transmission.
    Roel van Kessel
    Head of Regulatory & Public Affairs | Eurofiber
    André Herrero
    Senior researcher | Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia
    Eric Joyce
    Business Development Manager EMEA at Adtran | Board Member, FTTH Council Europe
    Francesca Parasecolo
    Head of Engineering and Network Architecture | Open Fiber SPA
    Franco Accordino
    Head of Unit, Investment in High-Capacity Networks | European Commission, DG CONNECT
    Marc Hulzebos
    Innovation manager | Eurofiber Group
    Maurizio Mucci
    Head of Regulatory Policy | Iliad Italy
  • 14:00-15:30
    Scalable deployment of new services in the home
    Organised by the FTTH Council Europe's In-Home Broadband Excellence Committee
    Scalable deployment of new services in the home

    19 March 2024 14:00-15:30 Workshop Room 4 Session

    In the quest for increased ARPU and 'stickiness', deploying so-called 'new services' has been a long-standing wish from Communication Service Providers and promise from the industry. Until now, such services have required tight integration with gateway software, lacking scalability both horizontally as well as vertically. With the advent of more powerful hardware, developing container technology, as well as modern multi-party management methods things can finally scale up. But are these technologies ready for 'prime-time' and will they really deliver on ARPU and 'stickiness' or just more 'sunk cost' in the end? Come and find out!

     

    Maarten Egmond
    CTO at Genexis | In-Home Broadband Excellence Committee Chair, FTTH Council Europe
    Paul Robson
    Senior Manager, Connectivity Platforms | Liberty Global
    Sukru Senli
    R&D Manager | IOPSYS Software Solutions AB
    Thomas Martin
    Principal Sales Engineer | Calix
  • 15:30-16:00
    Coffee break
    Coffee break

    19 March 2024 15:30-16:00 Break

  • 16:00-17:30
    Governmental Day Workshop
    Organised by aconium GmbH and the FTTH Council Europe's Policy & Regulation Committee
    Governmental Day Workshop

    19 March 2024 16:00-17:30 Workshop Room 1 Session

    The “Governmental Day” workshop provides an interactive platform for exchange of knowledge and discussions among broadband stakeholders in the EU. The focus of the workshop is on:

    • update by the European Commission on plans and policies,
    • award-winning projects and trends from Europe fostering the development of fibre networks, digital resilience, and enhancing the uptake of digital services.

    The workshop will update stakeholders about the policies and plans of the EU Commission, demonstrate successful approaches and projects, and facilitate an exchange among the broadband community. It will provide a mix of keynotes and panel discussions to stimulate the engagement of key stakeholders from Europe and facilitate the transfer of knowledge and ideas during our European Digital Decade journey.

    Tony Shortall
    Director | TELAGE
    Amanda Glancy
    Director of Corporate Affairs | SIRO
    Darijus Valiucko
    Senior Project Manager | aconium GmbH
    Elena Galindo
    Coordinator at Subdirectorate of Telecom Operators and Digital Infrastructures | Spanish Ministry for Digital Transformation and Civil Service
    Franco Accordino
    Head of Unit, Investment in High-Capacity Networks | European Commission, DG CONNECT
    Igor Brusic
    CSO | nöGIG Service GmbH
  • 16:00-17:30
    Quo vadis, fiber investments?
    Organised by Deutsche Giganetz, ING, Cube
    Quo vadis, fiber investments?

    19 March 2024 16:00-17:30 Workshop Room 3 Session

    Are investors (debt and equity) in fiber rollout on the back foot? It seems that some roll-outs expansion projects no longer pay off. This interactive workshop will discuss the conditions under which expansion can continue to be profitable and financed by both streams equity AND debt. A key element of this is to think bigger and more scalable. Central issues here are competition for cooperation with municipalities, pre-marketing, activating homes, and attracting new investors. We shed light on this perspective from the point of view of debt funders, operators and equity investors. There will be contributions from two institutions, which are entering the scene in Germany: EIB and SUN LIFE.

    Why and how are the latter now of all times joining the fiber landscape? Why is the sector still attractive? How will recent experience (positive and negative) and the involvement of new funder’s participation modify the perception of this sector?

     

    Hans Peter Leube
    Partner - Private Equity & TMT | Law Firm
    Marco Griefahn
    Director TMT Sector Coverage | ING
    Mustafa Demir
    Director | Cube Infrastructure Managers
    Steffen Leiwesmeier
    Head of Strategic Treasury | Deutsche GigaNetz GmbH
    Valter Lourenco
    Managing Director, Infrastructure Debt | SLC Management
    Vincent Metzler
    Senior Loan Officer - EIB | European Investment Bank
  • 16:00-17:30
    Joining up the fibre lifecycle with an Integrated Network and applying AI to the operational value chain
    Organised by IQGeo, Deepomatic, Deep Up, VIAVI Solutions
    Joining up the fibre lifecycle with an Integrated Network and applying AI to the operational value chain

    19 March 2024 16:00-17:30 Workshop Room 5 Session

    Planning, constructing, and maintaining a fibre network is increasingly complex, and having a network lifecycle strategy is critical to success. This workshop will share the experience of Deutsche Glasfaser in Germany to develop a shared network model and how technology and AI can integrate to support the entire value chain and streamline operational workflows. Co-organized with Deepomatic, DeepUp, IQGeo and Viavi this workshop will show you how to enable operators to deploy and manage networks across the entire lifecycle, from planning and design to operations and sales. We will offer examples of how we streamlined digital workflows that perfected every stage network planning, design, construction, and operations. Lastly, we will supply takeaways on how to make your projects more flexible and efficient.

    Adriana Alcalá Canales
    Product Manager | DeepUp
    Augustin Marty
    CEO | Deepomatic
    Gustav Janssens
    Head of Presales & Customer Success - EMEA | IQGeo
    James Wheatley
    Head of Product Management | IQGeo
    Tom Ronan
    Global Director, Regional Product Management | Viavi Solutions
    Ulf Theobald
    Geschäftsleiter Network / IT Architecture & Digital Transformation | inexio Informationstechnologie und Telekommunikation GmbH/Deutsche Glasfaser Wholesale
  • 16:00-17:30
    PON technology options for a multi-gigabit future
    Organised by CommScope, Nokia, DZS
    PON technology options for a multi-gigabit future

    19 March 2024 16:00-17:30 Workshop Room 6 Session

    In recent years, service providers have overwhelmingly opted for XGS-PON as the PON technology to lead them into the era of multi-gigabit services. At the same time, the industry has been preparing for what comes next, working on several technologies that will move the boundaries of what is possible beyond XGS-PON.

    This workshop will provide an overview of the latest status on ITU standardization of next-generation PON technologies including 25MSA, 50G, 100G and beyond.

    Workshop participants will comment on the current technical status, actual trials and deployments, target use cases, associated technologies and expected adoption curve.

    Specific attention will be given to the migration paths between different generations of PON technologies, enabled by wavelength coexistence—and how to implement them in practice.

    Another important question to be answered is if speed is the only important driver for QoE of customers. As anyone knows max speed is strictly correlated to latency, so only increasing speed without looking at latency can be unfruitful. Updates should be given about what are going to be done in this area.

    Ana Pesovic
    Marketing Dirctor | Nokia
    Bruno Cornaglia
    Fixed Access Senior Manager | Vodafone Group plc
    Mats Lindmark
    Senior Solution Architect | DZS
    Niki Kirschenmann
    Global Product Line Manager | VIAVI Solutions
    Rudy Musschebroeck
    Sr. Director Strategy & Marketing | CommScope
  • 16:00-17:30
    The Service Providers' Take on Software-Defined-Access (SDA) Framework
    Organised by Kontron, Turk Telekom, SpeedConnect Austria
    The Service Providers' Take on Software-Defined-Access (SDA) Framework

    19 March 2024 16:00-17:30 Workshop Room 4 Session

    With no alternative to fibre in feeding the increasing hunger for speed, extensive fibre-deployment plans are being funded worldwide. Expected to be in service for fifty years or even longer, the fibre-access infrastructure put in place must be capable of accommodating future upgrades. What is more, it needs to protect from supply-chain disruption and vendor lock-in today, while cutting opex with automation and simplification. In this workshop, Tier-1 operators at the forefront of innovation provide practical advice and their experience with the architectural enablers that Open Networking Foundation (ONF) and Broadband Forum (BBF) provide for open, disaggregated broadband access. Specifically, they will discuss the key elements that constitute the solution: the SDN controller; the fibre-access (OLT) equipment; the virtualised BNG; and the standard and open interfaces.

    Boris Ilovar
    CTIO | SpeedConnect
    Manuel Paul
    Squad Lead Network Convergence | Deutsche Telekom AG
    Simon Čimžar
    CTO, Business Unit Broadband | Kontron
    Suleyman Çimen
    Fixed Access Architecture Manager | Turk Telekom
  • 16:00-17:30
    Neutral host: from traditional infrastructure sharing to shared sites for innovative fiber-based services
    Organised by Isiline, Huawei, Turknet
    Neutral host: from traditional infrastructure sharing to shared sites for innovative fiber-based services

    19 March 2024 16:00-17:30 Workshop Room 2 Session

    Neutral host companies are established in the telecom market through various models, normally for mobile networks and towers, and data center. The densification of fibers and the expansion of multi-edge deployment, together with the emergence of new, innovative and IoT-related services, provides now for new challenges and opportunities. On one side, building new capillary infrastructures is expensive and thus the costs to deploy densified fiber networks are often too high for any single operator to bear, so that the use of common resources becomes a priority. On the other side, the multiplication of shared sites for fibers can trigger the developments of new fiber-based services, partly ancillary to connectivity, partly completely new and encompassing the Iot ecosystem. The workshop intends therefore to explore this scenario which is essential for fibers roll-out not only for saving costs nut also for developing new businesses.

    Innocenzo Genna
    Legal advisor | Isiline
    Ivan Botta
    CEO | ISILine
    Paolo Aielli
    Director General | Roma Capitale
    Renato Brunetti
    President & CEO | UNIDATA SpA
    Tiziana Talevi
    Director Regulatory Affairs & Competition | iliad Italia
    Zhongchang Liang
    Business and Network Consultant | Huawei Poland Sp. o.o.

The annual FTTH Conference is a unique event, bringing together 'C' level representatives, technical and regulatory experts from FTTH Council Europe member and non-member companies plus senior government and industry representatives, technology specialists, engineers, policy makers, regulators and investors to discuss and debate all aspects of FTTH and other fiber enabled technologies and services, and the benefit they bring to society. There is no other conference quite like it.

<< Swipe to see all tracks >>
  • 10:30-11:00
    Swift ODN Solution – Evolving traditional FTTH Deployments
    Sponsored by HENGTONG
    Hengtong Optic-Electric Co., Ltd.
    Swift ODN Solution – Evolving traditional FTTH Deployments

    20 March 2024 10:30-11:00 Open Exhibition Theatre - Exhibition Hall 25 Session

    With the evolution of fixed access network technologies in the past decades, FTTx has gradually become the mainstream choice for operators. With massive optical fibre resources being deployed around the world every year, ODNs connect thousands of homes to provide high-bandwidth and high-quality network experience to end users all over the world.

    Nowadays efficiency becomes a key point for operators to build competitive optical fibre networks, and next-generation ODNs not only have to solve the urgent problems existing in the traditional deployments, but also have to provide a solution based on different user densities, different optical split ratios, and different installation environments.

    HT`s swift ODN solution aims to meet the smooth evolution requirements in new construction, expansion, and re-construction, so that the existing network resources can be pushed to the maximum to avoid repeated investments.

  • 9:30-10:00
    Keynote 1 - Opening Speech
    Conference intro and celebration of the 20th anniversary of the FTTH Council Europe
    Keynote 1 - Opening Speech

    20 March 2024 9:30-10:00 Keynote

    FTTH Council Europe's President Raf Meersman welcomes all delegates of the FTTH Conference 2024 and kicks off the plenary session by looking forward at the challenges and opportunities ahead for our industry on the path to 2030 objectives. How will our industry evolve in the next few years? How can FTTH stakeholders work together for a more sustainable and digital future? 

    This opening session will also be the opportunity to look back at two decades of activity of the FTTH Council Europe, celebrating the 20th anniversary of our association with some of the past Presidents and Director Generals, who contributed to our mission of making fibre happen across Europe. 

    Roshene McCool
    Senior Market & Technology Development Manager at Corning Optical Communications | President, FTTH Council Europe
  • 10:00-11:00
    Panel 1 - Opening panel
    A review of the state of play of FTTH deployment across Europe, by key European FTTH operators
    Panel 1 - Opening panel

    20 March 2024 10:00-11:00 Conference Room 1 Session

    This opening session will set the scene for the following panel discussions with a pan-European overview of the key drivers and challenges ahead for our industry. While the economic context remains challenging and private investments are slowind down, a pressing question emerges: how can our industry maintain its momentum toward the ambitious goal of bringing full-fibre networks to everyone and everywhere? Dive deep with us as senior leaders from key European FTTH operators review the current state of FTTH deployment, tackling public policies, technology hurdles, market roadblocks, deployment and ESG strategies. 

    Don’t miss this opening panel session featuring C-level representatives from leading operators at the helm of Europe's FTTH industry. Seize the opportunity to gain invaluable insights, stay abreast of cutting-edge trends, and uncover transformative developments shaping the future of connectivity.  

    Vincent Garnier
    Director General | FTTH Council Europe
    Greg Mesch
    Chief Executive Officer | CityFibre
    Marta Wojciechowska
    Chief Executive Officer | Fiberhost
    Nikos Plevris
    Chief Network Officer | Vodafone Greece
    Olaf Swantee
    CEO turned investor, strategic business advisor and Chairman | Community Fiber in the UK & Odido in the Netherlands
    Yuriy Kurmaz
    Chief Executive Officer | UKRTELECOM JSC
  • 11:00-11:30
    Coffee break
    Coffee break

    20 March 2024 11:00-11:30 Exhibition Halls 25 and 1.2 Break

  • 11:15-11:45
    An in-depth walkthrough on all things Artificial Intelligence for fibre field services, infrastructure rollouts and more
    Sponsored by Inveniam
    Inveniam
    An in-depth walkthrough on all things Artificial Intelligence for fibre field services, infrastructure rollouts and more

    20 March 2024 11:15-11:45 Open Exhibition Theatre - Exhibition Hall 25 Session

    Inveniam is a leading provider of AI solutions for telco field operations. With a strong focus on fibre, Inveniam designs, trains and deploys cutting-edge artificial intelligence to provide visual analysis of all things relating to your operations. Whether it’s analyzing photos submitted by technicians in real-time to verify the quality of work and infrastructure connections, or mass analysis of millions of images for build completion reports and audits, Inveniam’s best-in-class solution has you covered. We’re proud to be working with some of the biggest infrastructure owners and CSPs in the business. After the presentation, Francesco and Evan welcome audience engagement for a Q&A, so come prepared with all your burning questions relating to AI on and off the field.

  • 11:30-11:45
    FTTH Awards 2024 ceremony
    Winners of the Operator Award, Individual Award, and Champion of Diversity Award are revealed
    FTTH Awards 2024 ceremony

    20 March 2024 11:30-11:45 Conference Room 1 Session

    Winners of the Operator Award, Individual Award, and Champion of Diversity Award are revealed.

    Roshene McCool
    Senior Market & Technology Development Manager at Corning Optical Communications | President, FTTH Council Europe
  • 11:45-12:00
    Keynote 2 - Roberto Viola
    Latest updates and ongoing initiatives from the EU in favor of fibre deployment and adoption
    Keynote 2 - Roberto Viola

    20 March 2024 11:45-12:00 Conference Room 1 Keynote

    Join Roberto Viola, Director-General of DG CONNECT at the European Commission, for an exclusive keynote presentation unveiling the latest EU updates and initiatives for FTTH deployment Europe. Gain insights into strategic policies, regulations, and financial support mechanisms designed to accelerate connectivity and innovation across member states.  

    With Gigabit connectivity expected to be available to all citizens by 2030, and whilst we prepare for a new cycle in European Institutions, this keynote provides a unique opportunity to understand the EU's commitment to a widespread deployment of Very-High-Capacity Networks (VHCN), shaping the continent's digital future and fostering economic growth. Don't miss this overview of the key initiatives in favour of FTTH deployment, directly from a leading architect of the European Union's digital strategy.

    Roberto Viola
    Director General | European Commission - DG CONNECT
  • 12:00-12:30
    Quantifying and improving User-Experience in a FTTH world
    Sponsored by Icotera
    Icotera
    Quantifying and improving User-Experience in a FTTH world

    20 March 2024 12:00-12:30 Open Exhibition Theatre - Exhibition Hall 25 Session

  • 12:00-12:15
    Keynote 3 - Teresa Czerwińska
    Financing Investments Across the EU: Unlocking the Future with Fibre
    Keynote 3 - Teresa Czerwińska

    20 March 2024 12:00-12:15 Conference Room 1 Keynote

    Join Teresa Czerwińska, Vice-President of the European Investment Bank, for a ground-breaking keynote speech addressing the pivotal role of financing investments in fibre-to-the-Home (FTTH) deployment across Europe. As digital connectivity becomes the cornerstone of economic growth and societal progress for Europe, Teresa Czerwińska will provide insights into the current status of EU-led initiatives aimed at advancing FTTH infrastructure, including the European Digital Compass. 

    Building on the European Investment Bank's long-lasting experience in FTTH infrastructure financing across various EU Member States, the address will explore strategies to accelerate fibre deployment, foster innovation, contribute to climate goals and bridge the digital gap, shedding lights on funding mechanisms and policy considerations. Don't miss this opportunity to gain a comprehensive understanding of the European Union's commitment to shaping a connected and resilient future

    Teresa Czerwińska
    Vice-President | European Investment Bank
  • 12:45-13:15
    Trimble Workflow & Solutions for planning, designing, building, operating and maintaining a FTTH network
    Sponsored by Trimble
    Trimble
    Trimble Workflow & Solutions for planning, designing, building, operating and maintaining a FTTH network

    20 March 2024 12:45-13:15 Open Exhibition Theatre - Exhibition Hall 25 Session

    Whether you are planning a Fiber to the Home (FTTH) network, registering a cable, or are looking to verify your design in the field, Trimble Geospatial solutions enable you to reliably capture survey data and transform it into intelligence to deliver increased productivity and improved decision-making. From planning to design and build, through to operation and maintenance, accurate geospatial data is critical in all phases of a FTTH project. In this presentation we will highlight why, how and when geospatial data is captured in FTTH projects and who can benefit from using them.

  • 12:15-12:30
    Keynote 4 - Tamira Snell
    The evolution of customer needs and behaviours in the telecom industry
    Keynote 4 - Tamira Snell

    20 March 2024 12:15-12:30 Conference Room 1 Keynote

    What is on the horizon for the European FTTH industry? This forward-looking keynote is set to open the eyes of many stakeholders in the room, as Tamira Snell, Senior Advisor & Futurist at Copenhagen Institute for Futures Studies, will shed light on the evolution of customer needs and behaviours in the telecom industry, and pave the way for operators, vendors, and policymakers alike to react to this evolving scenario. 

    The Copenhagen Institute for Futures Studies is an independent, non-profit think tank established in 1969, with a mission to help create a society fit to meet the challenges and grasp the opportunities ahead for the society of the future. Be the first in the know: don’t miss this keynote and enjoy some thought-provoking considerations over the future of our industry.

    Tamira Snell
    Senior Advisor & Futurist | Copenhagen Institute for Futures Studies
  • 12:30-12:45
    Keynote 5 - Michael Theurer
    Parliamentary Secretary of State at the German Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport
    Keynote 5 - Michael Theurer

    20 March 2024 12:30-12:45 Conference Room 1 Keynote

    Don’t miss this exclusive opportunity to hear directly from Michael Theurer, Parliamentary Secretary of State at the German Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport, about Germany's digital strategy and FTTH rollout and adoption plans.  

    What are the actions being put into place by the Federal Government to make sure that all German citizens enjoy the utmost benefits of fibre connectivity by 2030? Come and hear it from Michael Theurer!

    Michael Theurer
    Parliamentary Secretary of State | German Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport
  • 13:00-14:30
    Delegates lunch break
    Delegates lunch break

    20 March 2024 13:00-14:30 Exhibition Halls 25 and 1.2 Break

  • 14:30-15:45
    Panel 2 - German CEO panel
    Featuring senior leaders from German fibre operators
    Panel 2 - German CEO panel

    20 March 2024 14:30-15:45 Conference Room 1 Session

    With over 30 million households yet to be connected to fibre, Germany is arguably the most important FTTH market in Europe. With the help of a unique speaker line-up, representing CEOs from major German fibre operators and the national regulator, we will explore the unique characteristics of this rapidly evolving market, including strategies to intensify rollout and ensure adoption, the contribution of private investments, and the role of regulation in achieving the ambitious objective of bringing fibre to every household in Germany by 2030. 

    Join us for a thought-provoking and informative panel session that will shed light on the state of FTTH in Germany, and the opportunities and challenges it presents for operators, investors, policymakers, and end-users alike. 

    Vincent Garnier
    Director General | FTTH Council Europe
    Andreas Pfisterer
    Chief Executive Officer | Deutsche Glasfaser Management GmbH
    Jan Georg Budden
    CEO and Founder | Deutsche GigaNetz GmbH
    Klaus Müller
    President | Bundesnetzagentur
    Michael Jungwirth
    Member of the Executive Committe Group Public Policy & Regulatory Director | Vodafone Germany | Vodafone Group
    Srini Gopalan
    Vorstand Telekom Deutschland, Deutsche Telekom AG | Deutsche Telekom
  • 14:30-15:45
    Panel 4 - CTO panel
    Featuring CTOs and technical experts from major European operators
    Panel 4 - CTO panel

    20 March 2024 14:30-15:45 Conference Room 3 Session

    The evolution of networks towards next generation 10G, 50G, and beyond, speed of deployment, facing rollout operational constraints, managing quality issues, adapting the infrastructure to future applications running on fibre, and avoiding in-home connectivity from becoming a bottleneck are only some of the key technology issues that major fibre players from all around Europe still face today. Attendees of this session can anticipate a deep dive into innovative solutions, strategic roadmaps, and collaborative approaches employed by major FTTH operators in Europe to ensure more resilient, , reliable and accessible gigabit connectivity. 

    Are you curious to know what is on the agenda of Chief Technology Officers from leading European FTTH operators? Join this strategic conversation as some prominent technology leaders spell out the latest trends and innovations shaping the industry.

    Suzanne Tracy
    CTO at SIRO | Board Member, FTTH Council Europe
    Angie Hagemann
    Chief Construction Officer | Unsere Grüne Glasfaser
    Fernando Molina Zamora
    CTIO | Nexfibre
    José Pedro Nascimento
    CTO | Altice Portugal
    Trevor Linney
    Network Technology Director | Openreach
  • 14:30-15:45
    Panel 3 - New investment challenges and strategies for addressing them
    Featuring senior representatives from prominent European banks and investment banks
    Panel 3 - New investment challenges and strategies for addressing them

    20 March 2024 14:30-15:45 Conference Room 2 Session

    This session delves into the shifting landscape of FTTH investments against the backdrop of escalating interest rates and economic softness in various countries. As the industry grapples with economic uncertainties, this session examines how these factors are influencing investors' attitudes and strategies towards FTTH infrastructure.  

    The panel brings together financial experts, industry leaders, and stakeholders to dissect the implications of higher interest rates and economic challenges after the surge in FTTH investment experienced in 2022. Attendees can expect an insightful discussion on adapting investment approaches, risk mitigation, and innovative financial models essential for navigating these evolving dynamics. Join us for an essential conversation addressing the end of carelessness in FTTH investments and providing strategic insights for a resilient financial future in the industry.

    Thomas Miller
    Executive Director, Hamburg Commercial Bank AG | Investors Committee Chair, FTTH Council Europe
    Christian Maher
    Managing Director, Co-Head of Digital Infrastructure, Europe | Houlihan Lokey
    David Elfassy
    Vice-President | Altitude Infra
    Harald Gruber
    Head of Digital Infrastructure | European Investment Bank
    Jeroen Kleinjan
    Global Lead Telecom | ING
    Johanna Reinkemeier
    Executive Director Infrastructure Finance | LBBW
  • 14:45-15:15
    Preplanning: key to cost-optimized network building (with live demo)
    Sponsored by AND Solution
    AND Solution GmbH
    Preplanning: key to cost-optimized network building (with live demo)

    20 March 2024 14:45-15:15 Open Exhibition Theatre - Exhibition Hall 25 Session

    What is preplanning, what is it needed for and how can it help to save costs? These questions will be examined and a live preplanning session in AND WebSolution will show how quickly results can be achieved that help to optimise network fineplanning and thus discover and take into account potential savings.

  • 15:30-16:00
    Simplify your Fiber Home Connect program
    Sponsored by Nokia
    Nokia
    Simplify your Fiber Home Connect program

    20 March 2024 15:30-16:00 Open Exhibition Theatre - Exhibition Hall 25 Session

  • 15:45-16:15
    Coffee break
    Coffee break

    20 March 2024 15:45-16:15 Exhibition Halls 25 and 1.2 Break

  • 16:15-16:45
    How digital processes improve the FTTH rollout pace - Learnings from the French telecommunications business
    Sponsored by Praxedo
    Praxedo
    How digital processes improve the FTTH rollout pace - Learnings from the French telecommunications business

    20 March 2024 16:15-16:45 Open Exhibition Theatre - Exhibition Hall 25 Session

  • 16:15-17:30
    Panel 6 - Policy & Regulation
    Featuring director-level representatives from European institutions, regulatory bodies and operators
    Panel 6 - Policy & Regulation

    20 March 2024 16:15-17:30 Conference Room 2 Session

    This session gathers senior European policymakers, regulators, and operator representatives to discuss the pivotal role of policy and regulation in achieving the connectivity goals of the FTTH industry. Against the backdrop of a new cycle in European institutions, this session explores how policies and regulations can be strategically implemented, and potentially adapted, to propel the industry forward. The panel will also represent an opportunity to take stock of the latest initiatives by the European Commission, like the Gigabit Infrastructure Act and the Gigabit Connectivity Recommendation, set to leave a mark on the European FTTH market. 

    Attendees of this session can anticipate valuable insights into the collaborative efforts required to navigate the regulatory landscape and ensure the seamless realization of industry connectivity goals.

    Arturs Alksnis
    Public Affairs Director at FTTH Council Europe | Policy & Regulation Committee Chair
    Francesco Nonno
    Director of Regulatory and European Affairs | Open Fiber
    Franco Accordino
    Head of Unit, Investment in High-Capacity Networks | European Commission, DG CONNECT
    Lise Fuhr
    Director General | ETNO
    Tonko Obuljen
    Chair | BEREC
    Wolfgang Kopf
    Senior Vice President for Group Public and Regulatory Affairs | Deutsche Telekom AG
  • 16:15-17:30
    Panel 5 - Market Panorama
    Official presentation of the annual market reports commissioned by the FTTH Council Europe
    Panel 5 - Market Panorama

    20 March 2024 16:15-17:30 Conference Room 1 Session

    Curious to know where your country will position on the leaderboard of our FTTH/B Market Panorama 2024? Join this panel as an expert line-up of speakers from different regions of the world will comment on the latest figures from our flagship report. 

    Together with the official launch of the Market Panorama, we will be presenting the FTTH/B Global Ranking, the FTTH/B Market Forecasts for 2024-2029 and an overview of FTTH/B deployments in rural areas. If you are keen on fibre market insights and trends, this is a panel you cannot afford to miss! 

    Domenico Dichiarante
    Head of Operational Marketing at Open Fiber S.p.A. | Market intelligence Committee Chair, FTTH Council Europe
    Alaa Jasim
    CEO | Earthlink
    Gary Bolton
    President and CEO | Fiber Broadband Association
    Roland Montagne
    Principal Analyst Broadband & FTTx, Director Business Unit | IDATE
    Verena Weber
    Head of the Connectivity Services and Infrastructures (CSI) Unit | OECD - OCDE
  • 16:15-17:30
    Panel 7 - What will be the FTTH market in 2030?
    Featuring senior speakers from European fibre operators, research centres, and governmental bodies
    Panel 7 - What will be the FTTH market in 2030?

    20 March 2024 16:15-17:30 Conference Room 3 Session

    Industry experts are gathered around this roundtable for a forward-looking discussion offering unique insights into the potential landscape of the FTTH market in 2030. This visionary session explores diverse perspectives, ranging from technological advancements to regulatory shifts and evolving consumer behaviours. As the industry strives for innovation and adaptability, this panel serves as a compass, guiding stakeholders through the complexities of the future. Future applications running on fibre networks, increased needs for speed, bandwidth, and reliability, and the pressing need for more environmental sustainability, are only few of the issues that panellists of this session will tackle, anticipating the transformative trends that may shape the FTTH market over the next decade.  

    Attendees can expect a thought-provoking dialogue that navigates the possibilities, challenges, and opportunities on the horizon, providing a glimpse into the ever-evolving world of FTTH in the next decade

    Andreas Waber
    CEO at Swiss Fibre Net AG | Board Member, FTTH Council Europe
    Erzsébet Fitori
    Executive Director | Smart Networks and Services Joint Undertaking (SNS JU)
    Gabriel Mohr
    Principal | Arthur D. Little
    Gilles Bourdon
    Vice President Wireline Networks Infrastructure | Orange
    Paul Naastepad
    Managing Director | Eurofiber Netherlands
    Tamira Snell
    Senior Advisor & Futurist | Copenhagen Institute for Futures Studies
  • 17:00-17:30
    FTTH Carbon Footprint cooperative platform: Get your organisation ready for the next ESG obligations
    By the FTTH Council Europe's Sustainability Committee
    FTTH Carbon Footprint cooperative platform: Get your organisation ready for the next ESG obligations

    20 March 2024 17:00-17:30 Open Exhibition Theatre - Exhibition Hall 25 Session

    Initiative of the Sustainability Committee of the FTTH Council Europe, the FTTH Carbon Footprint cooperative platform is open to all organisations of our industry. This session will explain how you can benefit from this program to accelerate your sustainability strategy, meet your legal obligations and reduce your carbon footprint.

  • 17:30-18:30
    Cocktail reception
    Location: exhibition halls 25 and 1.2
    Cocktail reception

    20 March 2024 17:30-18:30 Exhibition Halls 25 and 1.2 Session

    A sponsored networking moment happened at the end of exhibition day 1 within exhibition halls 25 and 1.2

  • 19:30-midnight
    Fibration Night Party
    The traditional mid-week networking party of the FTTH Conference
    Fibration Night Party

    20 March 2024 19:30-midnight DogTap, Brewdog flagship venue in Berlin Session

    Fibration Night is the unmissable mid-week party bringing additional life and colour to our annual FTTH Conference.  Bringing together around 500+ people, the event is the perfect opportunity to seek high-quality entertainment during the FTTH Conference 2024: participants will have the chance to network, chat and relax, share views about latest FTTH developments and trends or simply grab a drink and enjoy the relaxing atmosphere of DogTap, Brewdog flagship venue in Berlin, a unique venue in the heart of Berlin.

    Click here to learn more.

The annual FTTH Conference is a unique event, bringing together 'C' level representatives, technical and regulatory experts from FTTH Council Europe member and non-member companies plus senior government and industry representatives, technology specialists, engineers, policy makers, regulators and investors to discuss and debate all aspects of FTTH and other fiber enabled technologies and services, and the benefit they bring to society. There is no other conference quite like it.

<< Swipe to see all tracks >>
  • 10:00-10:30
    Solving the MDU Wiring Challenge
    Sponsored by Harmonic
    Harmonic Inc
    Solving the MDU Wiring Challenge

    21 March 2024 10:00-10:30 Open Exhibition Theatre - Exhibition Hall 25 Session

  • 9:30-10:45
    Panel 8 - Innovative solutions to reduce time and cost of fibre cable deployment
    Featuring industry experts from members of the FTTH Council Europe
    Panel 8 - Innovative solutions to reduce time and cost of fibre cable deployment

    21 March 2024 9:30-10:45 Conference Room 1 Session

    In this transformative panel, senior leaders from Members of the FTTH Council Europe address the challenge of faster deployments amidst a skilled labor shortage. Concepts like plug-and-play, de-skilling, and agnosticism guide strategic decisions, influencing innovations across product, process, supply chain, and network architecture. The session emphasizes four critical priorities: simplicity, fast deployments, skills concentration, and network quality, harmonizing network needs with material and labor challenges. 

    Panellists of this session will also explore efficient methods of laying fibre optic cables, delving into alternative deployment strategies for optimizing efficiency and ensuring reliability. The panel also tackles the pressure on network operators to enhance bandwidth sustainably, with insights into high-density, environmentally conscious cabling systems. 

    Delve into the installation journey of fibre optic cables, unravelling their comprehensive data sheets. Gain insights into crucial elements like attenuation, blowing performance, and factors essential for ensuring optimal performance and reliability. Join us in navigating the intricate details that contribute to industry excellence, ushering in a revolutionized FTTH landscape. 

    Xavier Renard
    Marketing Director at ACOME | Board Member, FTTH Council Europe
    Adrian Amezcua Correa
    Director Technical Sales Support | Prysmian Group
    José Luis Gonzalez
    Regional Market Manager | CommScope
    Peter Weimann
    Chief Technology Officer, Optical Fibre Cable | HFCL
    Tadeu Viana
    VP Sales EMEA | Corning Optical Communications
  • 9:30-10:45
    Panel 9 - Opportunities and challenges of a multi gigabit world
    Featuring industry experts from members of the FTTH Council Europe
    Panel 9 - Opportunities and challenges of a multi gigabit world

    21 March 2024 9:30-10:45 Conference Room 2 Session

    Embark on a comprehensive exploration of the accelerating global optical fibre transformation in this session. As we stand at the critical juncture of digital evolution, panellists advocate for optical fibre infrastructure to bridge global digital divides.  Simultaneously, they delve into the transformative potential of multi-gigabit speeds on fibre, propelling us toward a greener, more connected world. The evolution of fibre broadband is not merely keeping pace with technology; it's driving us into a digital renaissance, unlocking new services and revenue streams. To round off the discussion, panellists confront the challenges faced by service providers in managing intricate networks. The spotlight is on technological advances in fibre monitoring, broadband technologies, and automated data correlation for enhanced customer care efficiency.  

    Join industry leaders from FTTH Council Europe’s Members as they navigate the multifaceted landscape of optical fibre, shaping a future marked by global connectivity, enriched user experiences, and operational excellence. 

    Stefano Fogli
    Director Technology and Solutions at Adtran | Board Member, FTTH Council Europe
    Andrew Bender
    CTO and Head of Strategy, Fixed Networks | NOKIA
    Hans Neff
    Senior Director CTO Group | ZTE
    Paul Howard
    ISP Presales Director | TP-Link
    Ronan Kelly
    CTO EMEA | ADTRAN
  • 9:30-10:45
    Panel 10 - Sustainability at the core of FTTH strategies
    Featuring senior representatives from major European operators, the ITU, and Members of the investors community
    Panel 10 - Sustainability at the core of FTTH strategies

    21 March 2024 9:30-10:45 Conference Room 3 Session

    In an era where sustainability is a critical concern permeating every facet of the Fiber-to-the-Home industry, this session delves into the strategic imperatives and urgent actions necessary for a greener future. As sustainability has evolved beyond a mere buzzword, and is now impacting all sectors of the FTTH industry, this panel brings together thought leaders and experts to explore the transformative role of sustainability in shaping the industry's trajectory. 

    Attendees can expect a comprehensive discussion on the challenges, opportunities, and innovative approaches to reduce carbon emissions within our industry, with practical examples and success cases on how to embed sustainability practices into FTTH strategies. As the urgency for greener practices heightens, this session provides a platform to collectively address and navigate the complex landscape.

    Jeroen Kanselaar
    Manager Corporate Social Responsibility at Eurofiber | Sustainability Committee Chair
    Chiara Mazzone
    Programme Officer | Smart Networks and Services Joint Undertaking
    Jacek Wiśniewski
    Chief Executive Officer | NEXERA SP. Z O.O.
    Laura Fernández Cavas
    Head of Sustainable Finance | Telefónica
    Laurentiu Prodan
    Director | DIF Capital Partners
    Robin Zuercher
    Programme Officer, Green Digital Action | International Telecommunication Union (ITU)
  • 10:45-11:15
    Coffee break
    Coffee break

    21 March 2024 10:45-11:15 Exhibition Halls 25 and 1.2 Break

  • 10:45-11:15
    Combatting rising costs for operators: how effective Network Inventory Management helps reduce your Total Cost of Ownership
    Sponsored by GE Vernova
    GE Vernova (Smallworld)
    Combatting rising costs for operators: how effective Network Inventory Management helps reduce your Total Cost of Ownership

    21 March 2024 10:45-11:15 Open Exhibition Theatre - Exhibition Hall 25 Session

  • 11:15-12:30
    Panel 11 - How products, design, digital processes and intelligence can optimize FTTH roll out and reduce Total Cost of Ownership
    Featuring industry experts from members of the FTTH Council Europe
    Panel 11 - How products, design, digital processes and intelligence can optimize FTTH roll out and reduce Total Cost of Ownership

    21 March 2024 11:15-12:30 Conference Room 1 Session

    Explore cutting-edge FTTH advancements in this panel, unveiling a 3D-geo-referenced cloud-based scanning approach for network expansion. Gain strategic insights into expediting deployments, optimizing Total Cost of Ownership (TCO), and addressing challenges through innovative fibre solutions. As investments pour into 5G and fibre infrastructure, panellists discuss evolving deployment workflows and stakeholder benefits from digital transformation. 

    The session will also look at the role of AI in FTTH and critical infrastructure, exploring its positive impacts on customer service, operations, and climate change initiatives. Experts shed light on AI benefits, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of its transformative role in the FTTH industry. Join senior technology experts from FTTH Council Europe’s Members for a dynamic discussion on the future of FTTH networks. 

    Christian Priess
    Head of Central Europe, Middle East, Africa and Submarine Cable business , Hexatronic Group AB | Board Member, FTTH Council Europe
    Amerigo Garofano
    Vice President, Telecom, EMEA | Sitetracker
    Dion Bonné
    Vice President Product Technology | Amadys, powered by Netceed
    Mike Greening
    Chief Commercial Officer | Inveniam
    Rahul Puri
    Vice President & General Manager, Europe | STL
  • 11:15-12:30
    Panel 12 - Active Equipment solutions and architectures to maximize the benefits of FTTH networks
    Featuring industry experts from members of the FTTH Council Europe
    Panel 12 - Active Equipment solutions and architectures to maximize the benefits of FTTH networks

    21 March 2024 11:15-12:30 Conference Room 2 Session

    By attending this session, you will learn more about the convergence of fully integrated fibre access devices, Software-Defined Access (SDA), and open access models, unlocking a new era in fibre network optimization.  

    As fibre deployments surge, integrated devices offer advantages for both end customers and providers. Meanwhile, the elusive takeoff of SDA has finally gained momentum, with operators embracing its potential at a large scale. Panellists of this session will present the ingredients that have propelled SDA adoption, delving into the steps for robust real-life disaggregation, and providing insights on valuable lessons for solution providers. 

    The roundtable also addresses how a unified physical network structure, coupled with strategic planning and the deployment of Fiber Termination Units (FTUs) and Optical Network Terminals (ONTs), empowers multiple service providers to offer a variety of services. The discussion extends to strategic end-to-end planning for cost-optimized flexibility, drawing lessons from open access models in countries like Sweden and Denmark. 

    Join senior leaders from our sponsor companies to unravel the secrets of optimizing investments in rapidly deploying FTTH networks, providing subscribers with freedom of choice and offering providers a fair chance to showcase their services. 

    Patrick Faraj
    Global Product Manager - Centralized Fiber Test Solutions at VIAVI Solutions | Deployment & Operations Committee Chair, FTTH Council Europe
    Eric van Uden
    Country Manager Niederlande | AVM
    Kajsa Arvidsson
    CMO | Genexis group AB
    Marcus Brunner
    Chief Expert | Huawei
    Mitja Golja
    Business Development Director | Kontron d.o.o.
  • 11:15-12:30
    Panel 13 - FTTX Market UK; Can we sustain the pace?
    Featuring prominent representatives from the UK fibre market
    Panel 13 - FTTX Market UK; Can we sustain the pace?

    21 March 2024 11:15-12:30 Conference Room 3 Session

    Join this high-level roundtable to explore the potential crisis facing the UK FTTH market, widely recognised as the fastest-growing in Europe. What are the British operators’ strategies to overcome the current market hurdles? How is the British government supporting FTTH networks rollout and adoption? How is the investor community reacting to this moving scenario? Industry leaders will share insights on issues like market saturation, regulations, and technology constraints, to advance on the shared objective of bringing fibre connectivity to every British household by 2030. 

    Join the discussion for a comprehensive overview of current challenges, strategic solutions, and collaborative efforts to sustain the UK FTTH market's growth.

    Barbara Tonarelli
    Principal Sales Engineer at Adtran | Diversity, Equity and Inlcusion
    Catherine Colloms
    MD Corporate Affairs and Brand | Openreach
    Lindsey Fussell
    Group Director - Networks and Communications | Ofcom
    Oliver Bradley
    Senior Managing Director | Macquarie Capital
    Polly Weitzman
    Senior General Counsel | CityFibre
  • 11:30-12:00
    Next-generation optical fibers as enabler for future European FTTH networks
    Sponsored by Heraeus Comvance
    Heraeus Comvance
    Next-generation optical fibers as enabler for future European FTTH networks

    21 March 2024 11:30-12:00 Open Exhibition Theatre - Exhibition Hall 25 Session

  • 12:30-13:45
    Delegates lunch break
    Delegates lunch break

    21 March 2024 12:30-13:45 Exhibition Halls 25 and 1.2 Break

  • 12:15-12:45
    Challenges on the migration from current PON technologies for a multi-service access network
    Sponsored by Altice Labs
    Altice Labs
    Challenges on the migration from current PON technologies for a multi-service access network

    21 March 2024 12:15-12:45 Open Exhibition Theatre - Exhibition Hall 25 Session

    With XGS-PON being widely deployed by many broadband service providers what is the next step in fiber broadband access technologies. What will drive the investment beyond 10 gigabit broadband, what are the options available to the network operators and what needs to be done beyond simple broadband speed to meet a new Multi-Service broadband network both within the access network and possibly inside the subscriber building?

  • 13:45-14:10
    FTTH Innovation Awards Ceremony
    Exhibiting sponsors of the FTTH Conference 2024 are awarded for the most innovative FTTH products and solutions shaping Europe’s digital future
    FTTH Innovation Awards Ceremony

    21 March 2024 13:45-14:10 Conference Room 1 Session

    Newly presented at the FTTH Conference 2024, the FTTH Innovation Awards celebrate 5 products or services bringing exceptional value and contributing to the acceleration of FTTH adoption in Europe

    Vincent Garnier
    Director General | FTTH Council Europe
  • 14:00-14:30
    Finnet Group - success story in the Finnish FTTH Market
    By Finnet Association
    Finnet Group - success story in the Finnish FTTH Market

    21 March 2024 14:00-14:30 Open Exhibition Theatre - Exhibition Hall 25 Session

    The future with fibre in Finland. Navigating the landscape of fiber investments in Finland and Exploring Finland's journey towards achieving EU Gigabit Goals by the end of the decade.

  • 14:15-15:30
    Panel 14 - FTTH rural deployment remains a challenge
    Featuring prominent leaders from European rural operators and investment funds
    Panel 14 - FTTH rural deployment remains a challenge

    21 March 2024 14:15-15:30 Conference Room 1 Session

    Recognising the lag in deployment versus urban and sub-urban regions, this session tackles the persisting challenge of FTTH coverage in rural areas. As the industry grapples with this pressing issue, the discussion explores the enduring obstacles and sheds light on the innovative solutions poised to reshape the FTTH landscape in underserved areas.  

    Unveiling a comprehensive perspective, the panel addresses the pivotal role of connectivity in rural communities and delves into the diverse strategies and technologies that hold promise for narrowing the gap. Join alternative rural operators, representatives of the investors community, and members of the regulatory world for an insightful discussion over the challenges, opportunities, and pioneering approaches that will shape the future of FTTH deployment in rural areas. A critical dialogue for envisioning an inclusive and connected digital future.

    Niall Halpenny
    Commercial Director at Sonalake | Open Access Working Group Chair
    Mariam Sulaberidze
    CEO | N(N)LE OPEN NET
    Mike Surrey
    Chair | Alncom
    Pedro Abad
    Chief Executive Officer | ASTEO Red Neutra
    Robert Mourik
    Chairperson | Commission for Communications Regulation (ComReg)
  • 14:15-15:30
    Panel 15 - Monetizing FTTH networks
    Featuring senior speakers and technology experts from European fibre operators and ISPs
    Panel 15 - Monetizing FTTH networks

    21 March 2024 14:15-15:30 Conference Room 2 Session

    How to monetize the immense value offered by full-fibre networks? As the European Union advances in its path to the Digital Decade and adoption of fibre-based services has now become a pressing issue, this question is often raised in Board Rooms of service providers across Europe. With the FTTH infrastructure unleashing unprecedented potential, this panel session scrutinizes strategies and innovative approaches for service providers to unlock new and alternative revenue streams. Panellists seek to unravel this 1-billion-euro question, exploring monetization models, value-added services, and business frameworks that can capitalize on the transformative capabilities of full-fibre networks.  

    Be prepared for a dynamic discussion providing actionable insights into turning connectivity into tangible economic returns.

    Maarten Egmond
    CTO at Genexis | In-Home Broadband Excellence Committee Chair, FTTH Council Europe
    Cem Mehmet Çelebiler
    Chief Executive Officer | TURKNET İLETİŞİM HİZMETLERİ A.Ş
    Craig Thomas
    Chief Executive Officer | The Broadband Forum
    Julius Hafer
    Partner Telecommunications | BearingPoint GmbH
    Philippe Le Grand
    Chairman | InfraNum
    Shaima Al Hamed
    Chief Commercial Officer | Bahrain Network (BNET)
  • 14:15-15:30
    Panel 16 - Zoom on Poland & Baltics market
    Featuring C-level delegates from fibre operators and regulators in the Baltics
    Panel 16 - Zoom on Poland & Baltics market

    21 March 2024 14:15-15:30 Conference Room 3 Session

    Often going unnoticed in the European landscape, Poland and the Baltic states have a lot to tell when it comes to FTTH strategies and best practices, far beyond their success in rural connectivity. In this session, CEOs from major Baltic fibre operators will converge with the Communications Regulatory Authority of the Republic of Lithuania to examine the intricacies, opportunities, and challenges shaping this very dynamic market. 

    Delve with us into market dynamics, regulatory frameworks, and innovative strategies driving FTTH deployment across these pivotal regions. 

    Carl Pertry
    Director of Business Development at Nokia | Board Member, FTTH Council Europe
    Giedrius Pūras
    Member of CRA Council | Communications Regulatory Authority of the Republic of Lithuania
    Jacek Wiśniewski
    Chief Executive Officer | NEXERA SP. Z O.O.
    Jean Marc Harion
    Chief Executive Officer | PLAY Group
    Uldis Tatarcuks
    Chief Executive Officer | Tet
  • 14:45-15:15
    Optical Power Budgets
    By SCTE - Society of Cable Telecommunications Engineers
    Society of Cable Telecommunications Engineers SCTE®
    Optical Power Budgets

    21 March 2024 14:45-15:15 Open Exhibition Theatre - Exhibition Hall 25 Session

Keep the FTTH Conference programme handy

Download PDF version

What did the last FTTH Conference look like?

FTTH Conference 2024 Sponsors and Partners


Sponsorship FTTH Conference

Interested in Sponsoring the FTTH Conference 2025?

BECOME A SPONSOR