Dr. Abhaya Sumanasena

PhD CEng SMIEEE MIET Head of Policy and Regulation

Abhaya is a seasoned leader renowned for his strategic insight and hands-on expertise in addressing challenges related to spectrum, regulation, technology, and techno-economic issues. With an extensive knowledge base cultivated over two decades, Abhaya has been a valuable resource for numerous international companies, regulators, and governments. Currently at the helm of Real Wireless’s Policy and Regulation practice, Abhaya also holds key positions, including being a member of the Ofcom Spectrum Advisory Board (OSAB) and Chairman of the UK Spectrum Policy Forum (UK SPF).

Abhaya’s leadership extends to guiding teams in policy development, conducting co-existence analyses for satellite/terrestrial systems, valuing spectrum for auctions, and performing techno-economic and business case analyses for emerging technologies, particularly in 5G use cases. Abhaya has played a pivotal role in assessing 5G spectrum benefits and crafting future telecom strategies for Mobile Network Operators (MNOs), regulators, and governments.

In his previous roles, Abhaya spearheaded and successfully delivered multi-million-pound strategic network capacity programs during the 4G era at Three UK and provided leadership in deploying the UK’s first HSDPA network. Abhaya also played an influential role in maintaining UK propositions and developing spectrum policies at Ofcom.

Watch Abhaya talk about his expertise, the challenges the wireless industry faces, his most successful project to date, and his advice for those thinking of working in the wireless industry.