Position Summary:
The General Manager of Telecommunications Operations will lead and oversee the end-to-end operational activities of the telecom infrastructure and network services across the Kingdom. The role is critical in ensuring seamless network performance, high service availability, and full compliance with CITC (Communications, Space & Technology Commission) regulations. This position also plays a key role in supporting Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 digital goals through infrastructure modernization and innovation.
Key Responsibilities:
Strategic & Operational Leadership:
- Develop and execute operational strategies for voice, data, fiber, 5G, and wireless networks across KSA.
- Align operations with business growth goals and government digital transformation mandates.
- Contribute to national broadband and smart city initiatives.
Network & Infrastructure Management:
- Oversee network infrastructure performance, NOC operations, and technical field support teams.
- Ensure 99.99%+ uptime through effective monitoring, preventative maintenance, and disaster recovery planning.
- Lead expansion projects including 5G rollout, fiber deployments, and network upgrades.
Regulatory Compliance & Risk:
- Ensure full compliance with CITC, NCA (National Cybersecurity Authority), and other regulatory bodies.
- Maintain cybersecurity standards and contribute to national telecom resilience planning.
Financial & Vendor Management:
- Manage large-scale OPEX/CAPEX budgets, cost optimization, and investment planning.
- Lead commercial negotiations with telecom equipment vendors (Huawei, Ericsson, Cisco, etc.) and service providers.
Customer & Service Management:
- Monitor SLAs, QoS metrics, and customer satisfaction levels.
- Implement ITIL-based service operations and escalation procedures.
- Coordinate major incident responses and post-mortem reporting.
Talent & Organizational Development:
- Lead and mentor operational teams, fostering national talent development in line with Saudization goals.
- Drive a performance culture and lead organizational change management during transformations.
Required Qualifications & Experience:
- Bachelor’s degree in Telecommunications, Network Engineering, or related field (master’s preferred).
- 10+ years in telecom operations, with at least 5 in senior leadership roles within Saudi Arabia or GCC.
- Deep technical knowledge of:
- IP/MPLS, SD-WAN, Fiber, 4G/5G, Data Centers, VoIP, BSS/OSS
- Network architecture, redundancy, and fault management
- Familiar with CITC regulations, national telecom frameworks, and local compliance needs.
- Strong understanding of regional telecom trends, smart city initiatives, and NEOM/National Grid-scale projects.
Preferred Certifications:
- PMP®, ITIL®, CCNP/CCIE®, MEF CECP, or similar
- Saudi Council of Engineers (SCE) registration is a plus