Manager: Core Data Systems at Vodacom

Vodacom is an African mobile communications company providing voice, messaging, data and converged services to around 50 million active customers. From our roots in South Africa, we have grown our operations to include networks in Tanzania, the Democratic Republic of Congo (‘DRC’), Mozambique and Lesotho.
Vodacom is majority owned by Vodafone, one of the world’s largest mobile communications companies by revenue. We’re listed on the JSE Limited and our head office is in Johannesburg, South Africa

MAIN PURPOSE

The incumbent will be expected to manage and coordinate the Core Data Systems
department’s job objectives.

JOB OBJECTIVES
To coordinate and manage strategic plan for Core Data Systems;
Agreements for Core Data Systems;
Budget for the division in accordance with budget requirements;
Evaluate existing and new technology;
Design and implementation of the packet core data network;
Scoping, specification, testing and Integration of new and existing elements in Switching PS Core;
Research and formulate a Switching PS Core strategy in terms of new core network technologies;
Capacity/Demand management, coordination and collaboration with all stakeholders with respect to product design and service implementation;
Manage daily operations within the Switching PS Core department;
Manage and lead a team of people (Including suppliers) that are assigned to projects within the Switching PS Core department;
Manage and formulate budget inputs for current and planned projects (CAPEX & OPEX);
Performance Dialogue and Evaluation of Staff performance.
Staff, resource and time management
Engage in supplier negotiation and commercial discussions pertaining to core business and purchasing of new equipment and technologies.
Interface with vendors and suppliers as well as other divisions in Vodacom.
Maintain productive relationships with suppliers and other groups in the business.
Define and formulate PS Core network planning guidelines for all new core network elements
Manage and coordinate short and long term planning strategies for the switching PS Core function
Manage and coordinate network architectural designs and topologies

JOB KNOWLEDGE
Relevant GSM Core systems;
GPRS/LTE/WiFi/Mobile Convergence . Telco over cloud, NFV and service orchestration;
Data systems (IP, Firewalls, Routers, Switches, IPLCS, Policy Control, load balances, service platforms, DNS) GSM/GPRS/UMTS/LTE protocols and SS#7 and other IP Protocols;
Telecommunication Industry and current government telecomm legislation as well as developments within ETSI/3GPP and ITU-T;
Network Designs ;
Radio Sub systems;
Business Acumen/Ethics;
Financial knowledge;
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
B.Sc. or B.Com. with Business management/ Computer Science or an equivalent tertiary Matric (Essential)
A 3 year degree/diploma in Engineering, Computer Science or Electrical or equivalent qualification. (Essential)
5yrs relevant experience (specify if possible), inclusive of 2yr leadership experience
A Minimum of 5 years of experience in a Telecommunications environment. (Essential)
At least 2-3 yrs management/leadership/supervisory experience (Essential)
At least 5 years’ experience in the cellular industry with specific experience in Core Networks (Essential)
At least 3 years’ experience of GSM, GPRS/UMTS/LTE principles and protocols (Essential).
A good knowledge and understanding of the Internet Protocol (IP)/NFV/SDN will be an added advantage

OTHER
*Please note that the onus lies with the candidate to provide Vodacom with substantial evidence to prove that his/her qualification is equivalent to the required NQF (National Qualifications Framework) level for the specific position

EMPLOYMENT EQUITY
The Company’s approved Employment Equity Plan and Targets will be considered as part of the recruitment process. As an Equal Opportunities employer, we actively encourage and welcome people with various disabilities to apply