To provide Strategic and Operational Leadership to ensure the efficiency and effective planning of various Transmission Systems within the Edge and Access networks, (fibre, microwave, IP systems, Synchronisation and other technologies), whilst meeting the required timelines, budget constraints and quality standards.

Context: (Global influences, environmental / industry demands, organisational mission, etc.)
MTN Access Network Transmission includes BTS, transmission and maintenance of infrastructure in the region.
The MTN GSM Network in accordance to ISO 14000 standards.
Rapidly changing and highly regulated environment

Rapidly changing and developing technology environment especially relating to the uncertainties surrounding wireless and fibre
Dealing with multiple 3rd party contractors
Highly competitive environment with customer focus as a key differentiating factor

Key Performance Areas: Core, essential responsibilities / outputs of the position (KPA’s)
Task Complexity: 
Strategy Development
•    Ensure input to radio planning & optimisation strategy and identify key decision points to enable Radio vision to be achieved
•    Support the radio strategy and ensure that it aligns with business objectives and the strategic plans of other departments
•    Evaluate new radio technologies and assess opportunities and concerns to be addressed from emerging radio technologies and technology trends
•    Support proposals of RAN strategies for future evolution and positioning

Planning & Delivery
•    Align planning with other functions
•    Assist in obtaining Requirements from the Business
•    Develop 2-3 year plans and translate strategy into both long term and near term plans
•    Ensure alignment with strategy and roadmap
•    Ensure appropriate resources are in place to execute radio technology (features and equipment) evaluation and specification as well as support functions
•    Develop resources and systems to ensure radio network elements are appropriately dimensioned and configured for growth
•    Evaluate new planning & optimisation tools, processes and systems
•    Ensure planning & optimisation tool management
•    Ensure new radio equipment identification, evaluation and specification in conjunction with radio planning dept
•    Ensure radio feature evaluation and specification in conjunction with radio planning dept
•    Ensure radio planning & optimisation tool management
•    Evaluate the functionality and complexity of new P&O products or tools on the market
•    Scope the requirements for trials and participate in the physical evaluation of the products
•    Compile evaluation criteria and performance matrix for tender purposes

Support GSM / UMTS RAN software releases: 
•    Ensure valuation of the functionality and relevance of new RAN software from a technical benefit in conjunction with radio optimisation dept
•    Define the business model decisions motivating the purchase of enhanced radio features in conjunction with radio optimisation dept
•    Ensure new RAN parameters, features and KPI are integrated within existing P&O tools and processes in conjunction with radio optimisation dept

Oversee software development and support
•    Identify new software requirements for the P&O department
•    Ensure the specification and evaluation of all custom software tools developed
•    Ensure that these tools are effective and efficient and maintain relevance and value within the department
•    Ensure end to end integration of software tools and systems
•    Ensure specialised technology support
•    Oversee spectrum management support
•    Prioritise the development of new applications and tools as required by the P&O department
•    Oversee the management of key technology development projects within the Radio Technologies Team
•    Ensure documentation is sufficiently detailed and up to date to ensure business continuity

Network Optimisation & Performance
•    Support the Planning and Optimisation staff with high level problem solving & performance investigations within the Radio Access Network
•    Identify the source of the problem and provide effective solutions
•    Perform technical investigations into topics related to radio network design and performance, such as new types of hardware, new design methodologies and the evolution of telecoms
•    Ensure the network consistently delivers on customer expectations regarding network quality, coverage and capacity
•    Provide appropriate radio network technology capability to achieve business needs
•    Ensure effective processes are in place for continuous improvement from the radio department and feedback is in place for confirmation that plans meet objectives
•    Oversee the Software Support division, i.e. ensure delivery of required level of support within the Planning and Optimisation domain

Minimum Requirements  – minimum necessary, and not the ideal / preferred should be included.
Education:
•    Minimum of 4 year tertiary qualification in Electrical/Electronic Engineering / Masters advantageous
•    Qualification in Business & Project Management advantageous
•    Fluent in English

Experience:
•    Manager track record of 5 years or more; with at least 3 years in GSM/UMTS or telecommunications with a proven track record
•    Worked across diverse cultures and geographies advantageous

Training: