LUKÁŠ KOVAL

Technology Executive | IT & Digital Transformation Leader
Phone: +421 903 729 565
Location: Bratislava, Slovak Republic
DOB: March 3, 1980

Professional Profile

Dynamic and results-driven Technology Executive with 15+ years of experience leading digital transformation, broadcast operations, and IT/OTT infrastructure within telecom and media industries. Proven track record of aligning technology with strategic business objectives, delivering complex high-impact projects, and driving innovation. Recognized for strong leadership capabilities, customer satisfaction orientation, and ability to manage cross-functional teams in fast-paced environments.

Professional Experience

Technical Director
Digi Slovakia / DIGISport
Jan 2019 – Present
  • Lead Technology Department overseeing ISP, Satellite, OTT, and Cable TV services across the organization
  • Direct technology strategy, infrastructure platforms, and TV studio operations (5 live + 5 auxiliary channels)
  • Manage complete product lifecycles for VoD, IPTV, and broadband services, ensuring alignment with business goals
  • Successfully delivered full IT consolidation and enhanced cybersecurity compliance framework (2020-2022)
  • Oversee multi-million EUR technology budget and strategic vendor relationships
Technology Advisor
Slovak Telekom
Jan 2013 – Jan 2019
  • Provided expert guidance on technology tenders and due diligence processes within Deutsche Telekom Group
  • Architected white-label TV platform solutions deployed across multiple group entities
  • Served as technology lead in M&A projects, contributing to successful acquisition integration strategies
  • Advised C-level executives on technology investments and digital transformation initiatives
IT & Operational Technology Manager
Digi Slovakia
Jan 2013 – Jan 2019
  • Managed IT/OTT operations and budget allocation, reporting directly to C-level executives
  • Oversaw development and maintenance of TV broadcasting infrastructure (Satellite, Cable, OTT)
  • Led successful implementation and integration of OSS/BSS systems and Digi Sport studio facilities
  • Coordinated cross-functional teams to deliver critical infrastructure upgrades on time and within budget
ICT Senior Designer
Slovak Telekom
Jan 2012 – Jan 2013
  • Designed enterprise ICT solutions including cloud infrastructure, security systems, CRM, and MDM platforms
  • Collaborated with clients and sales teams on custom solution architecture and delivery strategies
Head of CPE Testing Team
Slovak Telekom
Jan 2010 – Jan 2012
  • Managed device testing laboratory for 120+ CPE types including DSL modems, routers, VoIP devices, and STBs
  • Implemented quality assurance processes that improved device performance and reduced customer complaints
Senior TV Specialist
Slovak Telekom
Jan 2006 – Jan 2010
  • Maintained IPTV and DVB systems including Headend, VoD, nPVR, and HD streaming infrastructure
  • Optimized streaming protocols and encoding profiles (MPEG2, H.264, VC1) for enhanced service quality

Education

1998 – 2003
Master's Degree in Marketing
Faculty of Commerce, University of Economics, Bratislava
1993 – 1998
Secondary Education
Gymnázium I. Horvátha

Certifications & Professional Development

Mini MBA – PwC (2022)
PRINCE2 Foundation – Hewlett Packard (2020)
Leadership & Coaching – Slovak Telekom (2011-2013)
Performance Management – Slovak Telekom (2013)
Advanced XML – GOPAS (2012)
Python Machine Learning – GOPAS (2024)

Technical & Management Competencies

Operating Systems Windows, Linux/UNIX, macOS (Expert level)
Networking LAN/WAN, Client/Server Architecture, Windows Server Administration
Programming PHP (Advanced), Perl, C++, Python (ML)
Web & Databases HTML, XML, MySQL
Tools & Platforms Visio, MS Project, PowerPoint, SharePoint, Photoshop, Illustrator, SketchUp
Management Methods PRINCE2, Agile, Team Leadership, Budgeting, Strategic Planning
Leadership Skills Coaching, Performance Management, Stakeholder Management, Change Management

Languages

Slovak: Native / Proficiency (C2)
English: Proficiency (C2)
German: Intermediate (B1)

Awards & Recognition

Best Innovator Award – Siemens (2006)
Best Performer Award – Slovak Telekom (2018)
Excellence Award – DIGI Slovakia (2020)

Additional Information

Driving License: Category A, B
Availability: Immediate / Upon agreement