Role Purpose/Business Unit:
- To lead strategic planning and transformation of Vodacom South Africa’s Radio Access Network (RAN) at a national level. This role is of an expert engineer who will drive innovation, digital transformation, and strategic foresight in RAN planning.
- Ensuring Vodacom remains at the forefront of mobile technology evolution. The role demands a unique blend of technical depth, data analytics, coding proficiency, regulatory insight, and strategic leadership.
Your responsibilities will include:
Strategic RAN Planning & Transformation
- Develop and execute long-term plans for a mobile network's radio access infrastructure, ensuring high performance, cost-effectiveness, and alignment with business goals
- Drive proactive network evolution strategies to ensure readiness for emerging technologies (e.g., 5G Advanced, 6G) , Responding to challenges of today while creating the future.
- Timeously deliver an End-to-End Capacity and Coverage plan ensuring speed to market
- On-time equipment and technology life cycle management plans
- Manage RAN CAPEX budget ensuring correct and meticulous allocation to the right strategic projects.
- Lead transformation of planning tools and methodologies and lead strategic discussions at a national level.
- Advise organisation on cost effective ways to bridge digital divide while still maintaining Revenue growth and delivering on purpose.
- Support other national teams, i.e. Project management, Finance business partner, national property, National transmission engineering.
- On time insights delivery to commercial teams to drive evolution, revenue growth and improve customer experience.
Coding & Digital Skills
- Apply coding expertise to build custom tools, automate workflows, and enhance planning capabilities.
- Collaborate with IT and data science teams to integrate AI/ML models into RAN planning.
Digital & Data Analytics Leadership
- Utilize advanced data analytics to generate actionable insights for network optimization and strategic decision-making.
- Develop and maintain intelligent dashboards for key performance indicators (KPIs), spectrum efficiency, and network health.
- Automate planning processes and integrate systems for seamless data flow and operational efficiency.
Vendor & Regulatory Engagement
- Maintain expert-level knowledge of RAN vendor hardware/software (e.g., Ericsson, Nokia, Huawei, Samsung).
- Influence and support Vodacom’s regulatory agenda through technical insights and strategic positioning.
- Advise finance and project management teams on smart sourcing, cost optimization, and investment prioritization.
Research & Development
- Lead R&D initiatives to explore and pilot new technologies, architectures, and planning paradigms.
- Collaborate with academic and industry partners to stay ahead of global trends and innovations.
Team Development & Leadership
- Mentor and upskill engineering and operations teams in digital tools, strategic thinking, and automation.
- Foster a culture of innovation, agility, and continuous improvement.
The ideal candidate for this role will have:
- Diploma or bachelor’s or BSC degree in electrical engineering, Data science Telecommunications, Computer Science, or related field.
- 5+ years of experience in RAN planning, with at least 3 years in Data analytics, software development in strategic or national-level role.
- Proven experience in digital transformation, coding, and data analytics.
- Strong understanding of mobile network architecture, RF principles, and vendor ecosystems.
- Experience in regulatory engagement and strategic advisory.
- Vendor or Consulting experience will be advantageous
Key Coding Languages & Tools:
- Python – for data analysis, automation, and ML integration
- SQL – for database querying and performance analytics
- R – for statistical modelling and forecasting
- JavaScript (Node.js, React) – for dashboard and tool development
- MATLAB – for RF modelling and simulation
- Bash/Shell scripting – for automation in Linux environments
- Power BI / Tableau – for visualization and reporting
- Git/GitHub – for version control and collaboration
Pro-efficiency in the following tools
- Atoll planning tool
- ACP and ASP,
- Smart CAPEX
- Sonar
- Actix, TEMS, Azenqos
- QGIS, Map info, ArcGIS
- Smartsheet’s
Core competencies, knowledge, and experience:
- Strategic foresight and systems thinking
- Advanced analytical and coding skills
- Strong communication and stakeholder management
- Innovation and transformation leadership
- Regulatory and vendor ecosystem knowledge
- Project management
- Financial literacy
- Time management
- Process automation and system integration expertise
We make an impact by offering:
- Enticing incentive programs and competitive benefit packages
- Retirement funds, risk benefits, and medical aid benefits
- Cell phone and data benefits, advantages fibre connection discounts, and exclusive staff discounts offered in collaboration with partner companies
Closing date for Applications: 11 September 2025
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