Camilla Altstrand is the area manager for planners in Stockholm. She joined Transtema in 2015 and has since held several different roles. She started as a documentation specialist, quickly transitioned to planner, and later took on the role of area manager for the planning team. Her daily work is characterized by varied tasks and a strong focus on the work environment, customer relations, and team development.
What do your workdays look like?
– My days are very varied. My main responsibility is to drive the business forward and manage our customer agreements. I have frequent dialogue with both my team and our clients. In addition, I naturally handle everything that comes with being a manager — such as HR matters, KPI follow-ups, finances, and the work environment. Recently, I’ve also spent a lot of time on recruitment and onboarding of new employees.
– The role of area manager for planners requires structure, flexibility, and the ability to lead a team where many work independently. I focus a lot on finding ways for us to collaborate more and strengthen our group dynamic. Since I’ve worked as a planner myself for many years, I can often support my team — especially those who are new to the role.
What has your journey in the telecom industry been like?
– I actually ended up in telecom by chance. After a stint in sales, I was contacted by a telecom company and started working as an administrator and customer coordinator. Being a curious person, I took every opportunity to join technicians in the field and see how fiber installations were done. One thing led to another, and before long I was drawing, documenting, and planning fiber builds. I completed documentation training through the company and learned the job along the way.
– In 2015, I joined Transtema — first as a documentation specialist, but I quickly moved into a planner role. I worked as a planner for many years before becoming area manager for the same group I had been part of.
Stepping into a leadership role for the team she had once been part of was both nerve-wracking and educational, Camilla says — but it went well, largely thanks to her leadership style.
– I try to be as humble as possible, but also clear. It’s important to me that my team feels safe with me, and I believe communication is the most important tool a leader has. I’m not afraid to address issues right away — especially conflicts. I think it’s better to resolve things immediately than to let them fester.
Being able to make a positive impact
For Camilla, the best part of the job is the variety and the opportunity to positively influence both people and the business.
– As a leader, I want to be the kind of role model I would look up to. I focus a lot on creating a good work environment and listening to my team’s needs. I’ve built my leadership experience at Transtema through internal training and by reflecting on which leadership qualities I value — and trying to embody them. When I get positive feedback from my team, I feel proud.
– I also really enjoy the dialogue with our customers. I believe in open communication — being honest when things don’t go as planned, but also clear about how we’ll fix them. I want us to exceed our customers’ expectations and be best in class! Earning our customers’ trust is crucial, and I feel that Transtema always puts the customer first, which I really appreciate.
Leadership wasn’t an obvious path
With a large area of responsibility, new team members, and constant deliveries, challenges are never in short supply. But Camilla enjoys the role and wants to continue growing in it. Leadership wasn’t an obvious path, she says — but it turned out to be the right one.
– When my manager was leaving, I was encouraged by other leaders to apply. At first, I said no, but after sleeping on it, I changed my mind — and I’m glad I did. I really enjoy working with people, building something together, and seeing others grow!
