Senior Manager - Transport Network Operations.Technology Information

Mission/ Core purpose of the Job:  (Short description)
Provide visionary leadership and operational excellence for the planning, integration, optimization, and lifecycle management of MTN’s next-generation transport networks, ensuring high performance, resilience, and alignment with business and digital transformation objectives.
 

• Context: 
• (Global influences, environmental / industry demands, organisational mission, etc.)
• •    Global trends, technology changes, market changes and the MTN Network and Technology requirements.
• Key Performance Areas: Core, essential responsibilities / outputs of the position (KPA's)
• Task Complexity: 
• Strategic input
• •    Provide input into the Network Operations strategy for the Transport Network Operations department
• •    Provide input into the annual business plan
• •    Translate the Network Operations strategies into operational plans and activities to realise these strategies within the Transport Network Operations department
• •    Shape and execute the transport network strategy in alignment with MTN’s digital transformation, 5G, and cloud-first vision.
• •    Drive adoption of SD-WAN, 5G transport, IP/MPLS, OTN, and edge computing to support evolving business and customer needs.
• •    Lead research and implementation of AI-driven network automation, orchestration, and security solutions.
• •    Ensure network architecture is future-proof, scalable, and supports MTN’s ambitions in IoT, enterprise, and digital services.

Operational Excellence (Overall)
•    Manage and co-ordinate the integration and maintenance of the following technologies and systems: Microwave, Fibre and Converged Transport Network and future technologies, the TX network including its associated components such as cabling and fibre technologies, the IP Routed and Switched Network for MTN and the NMS Systems for MTN 
•    Overseas all configuration management and second line fault management for the transport network.
•    Ensure appropriate resources are in place to manage these areas and aspects of the transport network
•    Ensure appropriate resources are in place to integrate new transport network elements and carry out upgrades to existing
•    Ensure the transport network operations department provides expert input and feedback to support network design
•    Approve transport network designs which meet necessary operations and configuration criteria and drive commitment for the implementation and integration of network infrastructure according to these designs
•    Ensure comprehensive configuration tests and acceptance procedures are carried out to ensure full compatibility and maintain network performance during the integration of new and upgrades to existing transport network infrastructure
•    Contribute to the development and implementation of the network spares management policy, support audits of the spares management database and support authorisation of requisitions for new spares
•    Identify new opportunities for operational efficiency and eliminate processes or activities that are not adding value
•    Give guidance in Developing new initiatives for integration into all MTN Group Opco’s within the context of this position 
•    Make sure to be consulted in the planning and design and implementation phase of the network roll-out and upgrades
•    Take accountability for transport network ops and services 
•    Ensure that design problems are communicated and provide input to design team
•    Ensure Transport Network Operations documentation of live network configurations is comprehensive, up to date, accurate and maintained effectively
•    Oversee integration, operation, and optimization of SD-WAN, 5G, OTN, Ethernet, and converged transport networks.
•    Champion automation and use of AI/ML for predictive maintenance, self-healing, and real-time network analytics.
•    Ensure robust disaster recovery, redundancy, and cybersecurity measures are in place.
•    Drive continuous improvement in network performance, availability, and customer experience.
•    Vendor Management and ensuring SLAs are me

Network Optimisation & Performance
•    Ensure future proof Transmission network design to guarantee deliverables are met according to customer requirements both internal and external
•    Ensure resources and systems are in place for optimising the Transmission network to meet quality and performance targets
•    Ensure Internet Service Provider (ISP), Network Service Provider (NSP) and Wireless Application Service Provider (WASP) requirements are met and oversee technical planning initiatives 
•    Ensure the Transmission network consistently delivers on customer expectations
•    Ensure redundancy and disaster recovery policy 
•    Provide resources, systems and inter-departmental process to ensure Transmission network capacity meets business requirements
•    Provide appropriate Transmission network technology capability to achieve business needs
•    Ensure effective processes are to track and report on performance problems and performance improvements on division level 
•    Ensure investigation of performance issues and identification changes required  on division level
•    Ensure review of design and drive optimisation changes

• Communication and co-ordination
• •    Continuously review and update best practice implementation for transport network operations
• •    Provide guidance and input to the network operations centre to ensure efficient fault management, change management, and integration of new transport network elements
• •    Guide and assist packet switch support environment
• •    Use technical ability to advise and provide input when require
• Project Management and Change Management
• •    Develop and drive the execution of agreed projects 
• •    Risk management
• •    Lead cross-functional teams in delivering complex network transformation projects on time and within budget.
• •    Implement agile methodologies and DevOps practices for rapid deployment and iteration of network services.
• •    Manage vendor relationships, contract negotiations, and ensure compliance with procurement and regulatory standards.
• Financial Management and Resource Management
• •    Manage budgeting and preparing of tenders 
• •    Develop and manage budgets for transport network operations, ensuring cost efficiency and value creation.
• •    Optimize OPEX and CAPEX through automation, virtualization, and strategic sourcing.
• •    Oversee resource planning, upskilling, and workforce transformation to support digital operations.
• People & Culture
• •    Manage the Team and their KPI’s and ensure that all are delivering against the Department’s objectives and KPI’s
• •    Foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning.
• •    Lead, mentor, and develop high-performing teams with expertise in cloud, automation, cybersecurity, and next-gen networking.
• •    Promote diversity, equity, and inclusion within the team and across the organization.
• Stakeholder Engagement
• •    Collaborate with internal stakeholders (engineering, IT, digital, marketing, enterprise business) to deliver integrated solutions.
• •    Engage with external partners, hyperscalers, and industry forums to stay ahead of technology trends and regulatory changes.
• •    Ensure alignment with customer requirements, SLAs, and MTN’s brand promise.

Supervisory / Leadership / Managerial Complexity:  Refers to the responsibilities for directing, guiding, motivating  and influencing others.
Manage Operations to ensure completion taking into account financial constraints
Develop career paths for all staff
Motivation of team members
Leadership
Management of Staff
Performance management of Team and Direct Reports

Role Complexity:  
This role operates at a high level of strategic and technical complexity, requiring deep expertise in Transmission network architecture, optimisation, and performance management. The incumbent is responsible for ensuring the network is future-proof, scalable, and aligned with both internal and external customer expectations. The role demands cross-functional coordination, advanced planning capabilities, and the ability to translate business requirements into robust technical solutions.

Lateral Dimensions: These indicate the areas where the individuals could contribute uniquely in addition to the indicated duties, as well as how they could be affected by others or circumstances not necessarily under their control.

• Creativities (improvement/innovation inherent)  Indicates the potential for improvement and / or innovation inherent in a position.
• •    Recommendation to the IS division in terms of Transport technologies, Support and Integration of systems
• •    Involvement with the core GSM switching networks, i.t.o. movement toward the IP generation of networks for both Voice and Data
• Vulnerabilities (control span) Refers to the latent difficulties, or things that could potentially go wrong that affect a specific position.
• Such vulnerabilities may / may not be under the control of the incumbent. Direct implication or first level of impact.
• •    In-adequate planning
• •    Split Networks across IS and NWG make it more difficult to ensure maximum performance and availability
• •    Insufficient inputs from Marketing regarding business/product requirements
• •    Lack of cooperation from other internal departments
• •    Unexpected traffic growth
• •    Skill level of the team constantly under threat (retention of staff)
• •    Budgetary constraints – provide a balance between cost and opportunities of local market
• •    Drastic changes in network requirements brought about by the dynamic nature of the mobile telecommunications industry
• Collaboration:  Refers to formal and informal relationships
• Responsibility towards:  who are they and what do they receive from the incumbent.
• •    Direct reports: Manager: Transmission Operations and Manager: TNO Optimization
• •    Key customers: All corporate GPRS, Data and 3G customers
• •    Key suppliers
• •    Relations, etc.: other divisions within the MTN Group, both local and international

Discretionary Space: The degree to which individuals are allowed to exercise independent thought and judgment.
Independent thought and Judgment: Relates to the decision-making constraints place upon a position or conversely, the degree of                                                                 freedom in decision-making.
•    Make decisions related to performance of the systems and networks maintained to ensure uptime and high performance.
•    Makes product purchase decisions
•    Makes staffing decisions

Authorities:
•    Inputs and recommendations into support and maintenance agreements with OEM or VAR’s (Original equipment Manufactures, Value added resellers)
•    Authorises staff overtime and staff expenses and leave requirements
•    Staff recruitment within budgetary constraints
 

Minimum Requirements  - minimum necessary, and not the ideal / preferred should be included.
Education:
•    Bachelor’s degree in Electrical/Electronic Engineering, Computer Science, or related field (Master’s or MBA preferred).
•    Certifications in cloud networking (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud), SDN/NFV, or cybersecurity are advantageous

• Experience:
• •    7+ years in telecom/network operations, with at least 3 years in a senior leadership role.
• •    Proven track record in managing large-scale IP/MPLS, 5G, SD-WAN, and cloud-based transport networks.
• •    Experience with automation, AI/ML in network operations, and digital transformation projects.
• •    Exposure to multi-vendor, multi-domain environments and global best practices.

Competencies 
Training:
•    Strategic thinking and execution
•    Advanced knowledge of modern transport technologies (5G, SD-WAN, OTN, IP/MPLS, cloud networking)
•    Strong leadership, people management, and change management skills
•    Financial acumen and business case development
•    Excellent communication, stakeholder management, and negotiation skills
•    Agile, DevOps, and digital mindset

• Tools & Working Conditions
• •    Proficiency with AI-driven network management platforms, automation/orchestration tools, and cloud-native environments.
• •    Flexible work arrangements, digital collaboration tools, and readiness for remote/hybrid operations.
• •    On-call rotation and availability for critical incident response.
• General working conditions 
• •    After hours work essential
• •    with flexible/remote work options
• KPA Quality Standards
• Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
• •    Network availability, performance, and customer satisfaction
• •    Successful delivery of network transformation projects
• •    Cost optimization and budget adherence
• •    Team engagement, upskilling, and retention
• •    Innovation and adoption of new technologies

About MTN South Africa

Launched in 1994, MTN South Africa is a subsidiary of MTN Group, a leading emerging market operator with a clear vision to lead the delivery of a bold new digital world to our customers. We are inspired by our belief that everyone deserves the benefits of a modern connected life. The MTN Group is listed on the JSE Securities Exchange in South Africa under the share code ‘MTN’. Our strategy is Ambition 2025: Leading digital solutions for Africa’s progress.