Country Operations Manager

Papua New Guinea
September 17, 2024
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Job Description

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Kacific is a next-generation broadband satellite operator. We are committed to providing universal, fast, high-quality broadband access at an affordable cost using robust technologies and an agile business model.

Founded in 2013 by a core team of senior satellite professionals, Kacific is backed by a group of investors with experience in global telecommunications and infrastructure. Our first Ka-band high throughput satellite, Kacific1, launched in 2019 to stream high-speed, low-cost, ultra-reliable broadband to rural and suburban areas of the Pacific and Southeast Asia.

Kacific’s purpose is to make a rapid and lasting difference to the people of Southeast Asia and the Pacific by providing high-quality, low-cost satellite broadband accessible from a small, easy-to-install, and affordable antenna. Broadband connectivity enables critical government services to reach the heart of otherwise vulnerable rural communities.

Kacific is committed to using proven space technologies to solve the endemic lack of affordable broadband internet in remote and underserved regions and locations of the world. Satellite connectivity drives economic growth, provides infrastructure freedom to communities, and improves people’s lives. Whether in urban, extra-urban, rural, or fringe and remote areas, we help businesses, governments, and communities fully participate in the digital world.

Be part of an innovative new chapter in Kacific’s journey, with exciting prospects in a fresh, evolving environment.

About the Role

The Country Operations Manager is responsible for overseeing and managing all operational aspects of the telecom tower company within the assigned country. This role involves ensuring the efficient and effective delivery of tower managed services, including land lease management, preventive and curative maintenance, power and telecom equipment upgrades, site fuel management, network monitoring, staff scheduling, training, and cost management. The incumbent will drive operational excellence, ensure compliance with contractual obligations, and contribute to the overall profitability and sustainability of the company’s operations in the country.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Operational Management:

  • Oversee day-to-day operations of the telecom towers, ensuring high availability and performance.
  • Implement and manage preventive and curative maintenance programs for towers, power systems, and telecom equipment.
  • Ensure all sites are compliant with safety and regulatory standards.
  • Manage the upgrade of telecom equipment and power systems in accordance with client and company requirements.

2. Land Lease Management:

  • Assist with Negotiations, renew, and manage land leases for telecom tower sites.
  • Ensure all lease agreements comply with local laws and regulations.
  • Maintain strong relationships with landowners and local authorities.

3. Power and Fuel Management:

  • Oversee site fuel management to ensure uninterrupted power supply.
  • Optimize fuel consumption and manage fuel logistics to minimize costs.
  • Evaluate and analyse installed power solutions (e.g., solar, hybrid systems) to reduce dependency on traditional fuel sources.

4. Network Monitoring Center (NMC) Management:

  • Manage the Network Monitoring Center to ensure real-time monitoring and response to network issues.
  • Implement processes for efficient fault detection, escalation, and resolution.
  • Ensure NMC staff are adequately trained and equipped to handle network incidents.

5. Staff Management and Development:

  • Lead and mentor a team of operations staff, including technicians, engineers, and administrative personnel.
  • Develop and implement staff training programs to enhance skills and knowledge.
  • Schedule and allocate staff resources to ensure coverage and operational efficiency.
  • Foster a positive work environment to enhance staff motivation and retention.

6. Cost Management and Financial Performance:

  • Assist manage the operational budget, ensuring cost-effective operations without compromising quality.
  • Track and report on key financial metrics to show efficiency, including operating expenses, maintenance costs, and fuel consumption.
  • Identify and implement cost-saving initiatives to improve profitability.

7. Client and Stakeholder Management:

  • Serve as the primary point of contact for clients, addressing their needs and concerns promptly.
  • Ensure compliance with service level agreements (SLAs) and contractual obligations.
  • Build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, including landlords, clients, lessees (Tenants), government agencies, suppliers, and contractors.

8. Strategic Planning and Execution:

  • Develop and execute operational strategies that align with the company’s overall business objectives.
  • Identify opportunities for business growth and service improvement within the country.
  • Prepare regular reports on operational performance and present to managing Director.

9. Compliance and Risk Management:

  • Ensure all operations comply with local laws, regulations, and industry standards.
  • Identify potential risks and implement mitigation strategies.
  • Manage crisis situations, including natural disasters, security incidents, and equipment failures.

10. Continuous Improvement:

  • Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance operational efficiency and service delivery.
  • Stay updated on industry trends and best practices and incorporate them into operations.

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree in engineering, Telecommunications, Business Administration, or a related field. A master’s degree is an advantage.
  • Minimum of 10 years of experience in telecom tower operations, with at least 5 years in a leadership role.
  • Strong knowledge of telecom infrastructure, including tower management, power systems, and network monitoring.
  • Proven experience in land lease management and regulatory compliance.
  • Excellent leadership, communication, and negotiation skills.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
  • Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple priorities.
  • Proficiency in operational budgeting and financial management.
  • Familiarity with safety regulations and environmental standards.

Working Conditions:

  • Based in-country with surprise travel to tower sites for Audits.
  • Ability to work in challenging and remote environments.
  • Availability to respond to operational emergencies outside regular working hours.