Manager - Roaming and Signalling Planning, MTN GlobalConnect at MTN Nigeria

Job Identification No.: 2119

Key Performance Areas
Core, essential responsibilities/outputs of the position (KPA's):

The Role will be accountable to achieve the following objectives:

• Developing the MTN GC planning function to meet the changing needs of the business and users, new projects, and technologies
• Collaborating with business teams to continuously evolve MTN GC systems, focusing on supporting increased sales, customer experience, and profitability.
• Facilitating Network governance process in coordination with MTN GCTIO stakeholders and Senior Management, participating in planning for future strategic innovation and business needs.
• Defining Roaming, Messaging and Signaling platforms planning tools, processes, standards, and roadmaps.
• Reviewing the designs and functional requirements of the Roaming, Messaging and Signaling platforms within scope to ensure that all requirements are satisfied.
• Working with business and technology leaders as appropriate to ensure proper alignment of business systems solutions with business goals and processes. 
• Establishing standards, methodologies, and documentation for the Roaming, Messaging and Signaling platforms and network. 
• Deliver a target Product and Services architecture with a 3-year time horizon taking global technology developments into consideration.
• Maintain budgetary spending within the company-approved business plan
• Ensure timeous rollout of Roaming, Messaging and Signaling platforms, infrastructure, and services.
• According to departmental KPI’s in line with the company mission, objectives, and customer satisfaction indices.

Job Requirements (Education, Experience and Competencies)
Education:

• Minimum of 4-year Academic Degree (B.Eng. / BSc Degree preferred)
• Master’s degree is advantageous
• Relevant certification/accreditation/membership with professional body as required for role
• Fluent in English.

Experience:

• 5+ Years of progressive experience managing the implementation, integration, and operations of carrier-level applications and platforms in a variety of technology footprints and geographies and markets.
• Functional experience in Core platforms including messaging, mobility, roaming, Signaling, and related value-added services (VAS) and security.
• Knowledge of IP, CCNA is an added advantage.
• Solid understanding of virtualisation and cloud-based solutions and technologies in relation to Roaming, Messaging and Signaling platforms
• Hands-on experience with Roaming, Messaging and Signaling hubs/platforms as well as value-added platforms.
• Hands-on experience with SMS Routing, Hub, and Firewall technology
• Understanding open connectivity roaming hubs and/or experience working with Data Clearing Houses is a valuable asset.
• Strong Knowledge of GSM/LTE/5G network architecture and Signaling architecture (STP’s/DRA/DEA).
• Strong Knowledge of End to End architecture and connectivity at solution level including core network, Signaling, roaming and VAS.
• Expert Knowledge of Signaling protocols and standards relating to CAMEL/GRX/GTP/DIAMETER, SIP, RTP, MEGACO, SCCP, GSM MAP and SS7/SIGTRAN/ISUP.
• Understanding of the standard call flows for messaging, roaming Vas and Signaling involving multiple services.
• Basic understanding of IPX and its positioning with the career network infrastructure.
• Understanding of IoT platforms, providers and mobile roaming and roaming VAS.
• Expert in SMS/SMPP data solutions (A2P, P2A, P2P, RCS, etc).
• Understanding of billing systems, CDR’s, TAP flows, TAP files.
• Knowledge of UNIX-Solaris, AIX, HPUX, Windows, Linux and cloud technology including containerisation (CNF’s).
• Extensive knowledge of virtualized environments (VNF’s), API’s.
• Understanding of other core platform and network areas including voice core, unified communications and collaboration, and related value-added services (VAS) and security. Familiarity with SIP and IP Telephony protocols
• Understanding of troubleshooting processes for connectivity and services.
• Ability to effectively communicate with all levels of the organisation
• Leadership and organisational skills
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills
• Time management and agility towards change both organisational and network
• Excellent communication and presentation skills, both verbal and written
• Ability to solve problems using a creative and logical mind set
• Worked across diverse cultures and geographies (advantageous)
• Manager track record of 3 years or more; with at least 2 years in relevant sector/ industry
• Worked across diverse cultures and geographies advantageous.

Competencies:

• Implementers, Decisive Problem Solver, Best Practice Value Creator
• Culture and Change Champion, Guiding People Manager, Relationship Builder
•  Results Achiever, Operationally Astute
• Detailed knowledge of the international telecommunication infrastructure industry regarding latest industry trends and competitive landscape within the MTN GC footprint
• Strong understanding of managed networks
• Strong analytical skills to be able to execute market analysis, competitor landscape reports and customer monitoring - Understanding the connectivity infrastructure wholesales landscape with a focus on emerging markets