Optical Networks

Herbert Merz

Herbert MerzHead of Optical Networks, Nokia Siemens Networks
Executive Board Member

  • Responsible for the Optical Networks business unit at Nokia Siemens Networks
  • Joined Siemens in 1990 and became Head of Operations for Nokia Siemens Networks when the company started in April 2007
  • Formerly, nominated as the Chairman of the Supervisory Board for Nokia Siemens Networks Germany and Chairman of the Supervisory Board for Nokia Siemens Networks China in April 2010

Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering from the Technical University Munich, Germany
Master’s degree in Business Administration from the Technical University Munich, Germany

  • Head of Siemens Communications supply chain carrier networks, Siemens, 2004-2007
  • Commercial Head of Business Unit, Siemens Mobile Networks, Siemens, 2001-2004
  • Partner Siemens Management Consulting, Siemens, 1996-2001
  • Various international leadership positions, Siemens, 1990-1996
  • Head of Sales and Software Development, MP Sensor Systems 1988-1990

Biography

As the head of Optical Networks, Herbert is responsible for the R&D, roadmaps, quality, strategy, and technological competitiveness of the business unit.
 
Herbert is known for his customer insight, pragmatic approach, relentless focus and ability to effectively drive changes. His inspirational leadership ensures that his team is able to meet customer requirements for high quality products at competitive costs.
 
In 1988, he started his career at a biotech startup prior to joining Siemens in 1990. He spent the next decade building up extensive top management consulting expertise in benchmarking, restructuring, sales promotion and account management. 
 
He became actively involved in the telecommunications industry in 2001, when he took on the position of Commercial Head of Mobile Radio business unit at Siemens Mobile Networks. 
 
Before joining Nokia Siemens Networks, he led the Com Carrier Networks Supply Chain from 2004 to 2007. His vast experience and expertise enables him to essay his current role with efficacy and precision.
 
Herbert holds a Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering and a Master’s degree in Business Administration from the Technical University Munich. He was born in 1962 in Germany, is married and lives in Munich. In his spare time, Herbert enjoys ballroom dancing, discovering different cultures, hiking and skiing.