European Communication Award 2013 goes to Nokia CEO Stephen Elop

Nokia Chief Executive Officer, Stephen Elop, is the first non-Finnish director in Nokia’s history. He has bravely changed Nokia’s smartphone roadmap from Symbian to Windows Phone, it was risky but he never stepped back. Elop’s famous “Burning Platform” memo has become one of the most controversial statement in the mobile history. Many would say that is was a bad move but with his direct and transparent communication style, European Association of Communication Directors (EACD) has admired him for that.

The Award is presented every year by the European Association of Communication Directors (EACD) in a gala ceremony held at the European Communication Summit. It honors outstanding communications achievements on a European level, and is given to the individual or organization whose communication efforts over the past year stand out on a European level.

In deciding the recipient of this award, the EACD invites members to cast their votes, based on their communications expertise and decide upon the recipient of the annual European Communication Award. Previous winners include Marc Bolland, CEO of Marks and Spencer (2012), Peter Löscher, CEO of Siemens (2011), and Sergio Marchionne, CEO of Fiat (2010).

Stephen Elop may not be everyone’s favorite but with his brave leadership style and transparent way of communication has led Nokia to new heights, it may not be as rosy as it should be, but Nokia has become more innovative and stronger against the tough competition.