John Gole is a research director in IDC's European Internet of Things Practice. He provides research and consulting on IoT strategies and opportunities to suppliers and enterprise technology users. Prior to this role, John managed IDC’s telecommunications, IoT, and mobility businesses for Central and Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. John is a frequent speaker at industry events. He also mentors start-ups on Prague’s start-up scene. He holds MBA degrees from London Business School and Columbia Business School, as well as an MA from Georgetown University's Graduate School of Foreign Service.