The Euro50 Q&A: Aleksander Kutela, president, HBO Poland

Aleksander Kutela has been with HBO Poland since it launched in the region. He has helped to build the channel into one of the largest premium pay TV operation in the country. HBO Poland was the first HBO venture in Europe to offer local original productions and the first outside US to launch the online platform HBO GO. Kutela is also senior vice-president at HBO Europe.

Age 40

Education MA in Economics from the University of Economics in Krakow; TGMP at Harvard Business School

Previous positions More than 15 years in media – all at HBO.

Life outside work I like sport, and go diving and surfing as often as I can to keep up with my daughters. I am also addicted to reading and playing chess.

Achievements of 2012 I was very pleased we were able to increase our local original production and roll out HBO GO, our SVOD on-line service, across the majority of key affiliates.

Most significant industry developments There are many, the most interesting one is the continuing development of tablet and smartphone apps and multiscreen services. In the Polish market, DTT and LTE rollouts.

Key challenges for 2013 Considering the swift pace of change in technology and consumer habits, the key challenge for our industry is to be able to re-vision our mindset so that we can take full advantage of the incredible opportunities we are offered every day.

Goals for next year In line with HBO’s desire to redefine the expectations of subscribers, we will continue to produce and deliver cutting-edge entertainment while also enriching the user experience by increasing access to HBO GO and HBO Connect services. Now, not only will users be able to watch their favourite HBO programmes whenever and wherever they want, but through HBO Connect, we’re also going to raise the bar in the way users experience and share the shows they love.

Most admired industry personality I am always inspired by people whose vision drives the aspirations of those around them and achieves success. Richard Branson is someone who has done this in the entertainment business since he opened his first record shop in London  and continues to do so across very different industries, from rail travel to banking, television to space travel.

Favourite current TV show It’s no surprise, but I am really looking forward to certain HBO shows. especially the three-part movie Burning Bush, produced by HBO Czech Republic, which is directed by the famous Polish director Agnieszka Holland.