Core Network and VAS Manager at Lebara Nigeria

Lebara Nigeria - Beyond top-tier telecommunications, we have forged strategic partnerships to offer financial services designed to empower the creative industry. Through microloans, device funding, Lebara powered internet hubs, and culture-shaping events to boost the art, culture, tourism and creative economy. we are committed to driving innovation, inclusion, and economic growth.

We are recruiting to fill the position below:

Job Title: Core Network and VAS Manager

Location: Lagos
Job Type: Full-time
Department: Network Operations
Reports To: Head of Network and IT Operations

Role Summary

• The Core Network Manager is responsible for the planning, deployment, configuration, operation, and maintenance of the MVNO’s core network elements, ensuring seamless service delivery to subscribers.
• This includes EPC, IMS, Diameter routing, signaling, interconnect, and integration with the host MNO’s infrastructure.
• Responsible for the planning, deployment, integration, and lifecycle management of all Value-Added Services in the MVNO network.
• This includes SMSC, MMSC, USSD, voicemail, IVR, CRBT, mobile apps, and digital service platforms.
• The role ensures high network availability, capacity optimization, and compliance with regulatory requirements.

Key Responsibilities
Network Operations & Maintenance:

• Manage and maintain EPC (MME, SGW, PGW), IMS, and HSS/UDM platforms.
• Oversee Diameter routing, signaling gateways, and IP routing infrastructure.
• Monitor network KPIs and proactively address performance issues.

Integration & Interconnect:

• Manage interconnect links with the host MNO and roaming partners.
• Ensure seamless integration of MVNO services with the MNO’s core network.

Capacity & Planning:

• Forecast capacity needs based on subscriber growth and usage trends.
• Plan and implement hardware and software upgrades.

Security & Compliance:

• Ensure network security with firewalls, SEPP, and encryption.
• Maintain compliance with local telecom regulations and lawful intercept requirements.

Incident & Problem Management:

• Lead incident resolution and root cause analysis for network faults.
• Coordinate with NOC, IT, and vendor support teams for issue resolution.

Vendor & Project Management:

• Manage relationships with core network equipment vendors.
• Oversee deployment projects and software updates.

KPIs & Performance Metrics

• Core network availability (%)
• Mean Time to Repair (MTTR)
• KPI compliance with SLA targets
• Successful completion of upgrades/projects on time and within budget.

Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Telecommunications, Electrical/Electronic Engineering, or related field.
• Experience: Minimum of 10 years in mobile core network operations (EPC, IMS, HSS/HLR).

Technical Knowledge:

• EPC (MME, SGW, PGW), IMS, Diameter, HSS/UDM.
• Signaling protocols: SS7, Diameter, SIP.
• IP networking: IPv4/IPv6, BGP, OSPF, MPLS.
• Security: Firewalls, SEPP, VPNs.
• Deep understanding of SMSC, MMSC, USSD gateways, IVR, CRBT, voicemail platforms.
• Familiarity with APIs, content delivery platforms, OTT integration, and mobile apps.
• Knowledge of signaling protocols (SMPP, SIP, MAP, Diameter, HTTP APIs).
• Certifications (Preferred): Cisco CCNP/CCIE, Nokia, Ericsson, Huawei core certifications.
• Strong troubleshooting, analytical, and documentation skills.

Application Closing Date
Not Specified.

How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates should send their Resume to: youbelong@lebara.ng using the Job Title as the subject of the email.