Ralph Yirikian: Steering Armenia's Digital Future at Ucom

Ralph Yirikian assumed the role of General Director at Ucom in March 2023, bringing with him a substantial background in the telecommunications industry. His appointment marks a new chapter in a career characterized by leadership in mobile network and internet service provision within Armenia. Ucom operates as a key provider of both mobile network services and internet connectivity across the country.

A Career in Telecommunications Leadership

Yirikian’s professional journey began in the early 1990s, where he gained experience in various administrative and operational roles. He worked as an assistant in archiving and documentation, and later as a computer operator. His career progressed through executive secretarial and management consulting positions in Qatar and Cyprus, where he also headed administration and personnel departments. By the late 1990s, he transitioned into the telecommunications sector, leading administrative units at LibanCell. This foundational experience culminated in his role as General Manager of Karabakh Telecom from early 2002 until mid-2004, setting the stage for his subsequent impact on Armenia’s digital landscape.

Shaping Armenia’s Mobile Landscape

A significant period of Yirikian’s career was his nearly two-decade tenure as General Manager of VivaCell-MTS, beginning in November 2004. Under his leadership, VivaCell-MTS experienced rapid expansion, establishing itself as a prominent telecommunications operator in Armenia and a significant contributor to the national economy. The company’s success attracted international attention, leading to Mobile TeleSystems PJSC, a major regional mobile operator, acquiring a majority stake in VivaCell-MTS in 2007. Yirikian remained at the helm, continuing to guide the company through this transition and subsequent growth phases. During his leadership, VivaCell-MTS was at the forefront of technological innovation in Armenia. The company was responsible for rolling out the nation’s first 3G network, utilizing UMTS/HSPA technology, which significantly advanced mobile connectivity. This was followed by the launch of Armenia’s first 4G/LTE network in December 2010, further solidifying the company’s position as a leader in advanced mobile services. Yirikian fostered a management approach that emphasized empowering employees, encouraging them to take ownership and make independent decisions within their roles. He departed VivaCell-MTS in 2022 to focus on his own business endeavors.

Leading Ucom’s Future

In March 2023, Ralph Yirikian took on the leadership of Ucom as its General Director. In this capacity, he now guides a company that is a key provider of mobile network and internet services in Armenia. His extensive experience in developing and managing telecommunications infrastructure, coupled with his proven track record of fostering growth and technological advancement, positions him to lead Ucom in its mission to connect individuals and and businesses across the country. His current role at Ucom reflects a continued commitment to the evolution of Armenia’s digital infrastructure, building on a career dedicated to expanding access to advanced communication technologies.