Ismail Kakooza
ENGINEER
Entebbe
Summary
Professional with strong track record in technical leadership and project management. Adept at guiding teams to achieve operational excellence and implement innovative solutions. Known for collaborative approach and adaptability to dynamic environments. Key skills include strategic planning and technical troubleshooting.
Experienced with managing technical projects and leading diverse teams to success. Utilizes strategic planning to enhance operational efficiency and deliver high-quality technology solutions. Track record of effective problem-solving and fostering collaborative environments.
Knowledgeable with robust background in technical management, focusing on streamlining operations and driving project success. Proven ability to manage cross-functional teams and deliver impactful technology solutions. Demonstrated expertise in strategic planning and problem-solving.
Analytical Technical Manager adept at recruiting, leading and developing highly effective technical teams. Meticulous and driven with a passion for innovation and process improvement demonstrated over 17 years in technical roles.
Experienced with providing technical consultancy to optimize business processes and enhance system performance. Utilizes strong analytical skills to identify and resolve technical issues effectively. Knowledge of implementing innovative solutions that align with client needs and industry standards.
Overview
19
19
years of professional experience
2
2
Languages
Work History
Roaming & Interconnect Technical Manager
Lyca Mobile Uganda
06.2024 - Current
- Strategy preparation and monitoring, fraud protection, risk and audit management and implementation of preventive measures.
- Preparation and control of OpData, IR21, Receive, control and share with RPs, Coordination of tests, SIM cards management.
- Manage system configurations for onboarded roaming partners.
- Be familiar with GSMA standards & format (AA14, IR21, IR24, IR35, IR38 etc) for roaming
- Source and roll out applications and programs to support international roaming and increase service options available on the roaming platform
- Prepare reports where necessary for management and keep them informed of all major issues
- Facilitate and co-ordinate technical aspects of interconnect with different MNOs, carriers and roaming partners, including:- (i) Liaising with prospective roaming partners to reach agreements on interconnect issues; (ii) Ensuring signaling connection is established with prospective roaming partners; (iii) Coordinating tests of roaming services with Key to Roam Hub, Direct roaming partners and the billing team. (iv) Notifying Management, Marketing, IT, billing and Finance teams of ‘go-live’ dates of roaming services with onboard roaming partners (v) Managing setups of interconnects with international carriers/partners and local MNOs. (vi) Coordinate all roaming and interconnect and Core Network related projects, liaising with technical teams for fault resolution, capacity planning, relevant technical standards, internally with all cross functional teams in technical, IT, Customer Service, Sales, Revenue Assurance, hubs and clearing Houses and all roaming partner networks.
Core Network Expert
Digitel Holdings LTD
05.2021 - 06.2024
- Operations and maintenance of CS and PS core Nodes i.e. ZTE Media Getway (MGW), vMSC, vHLR/HSS, ISBC, STP, UMAC(SGSN,/MME), PCRF, xGW all on NFVI platform.
- Manage all NFV servers (i.e. R5300 G4 servers) for core network nodes.
- Ensure proper PS and CS Core network planning.
- Software and hardware upgrade of all existing PS and CS core Nodes
- Manage Integrations between the PS/CS core network with other sections.
- Managing IREG tests.
- Ensure proper planning and setup of International Roaming, Local, Regional and International Interconnects.
- Continuous performance monitoring of International Roaming, Local, Regional and International Interconnects.
- Continuous monitoring of Core network traffic performance to ensure high quality of services and implementation of corrective action.
- Carryout periodic check-ups and backups for all core nodes.
Senior Core Network Engineer and O&M Manager
Huawei Technologies Uganda Limited
01.2020 - 04.2021
- Supporting OPCOs i.e. MTN Uganda, Airtel Uganda, Lyca Mobile, UTL, Africell in core network related issues on MSCs MGWs, SBC, STP, HLR/HSS, NGN, IMS networks, NFVI, USN and UGW, which involved troubleshooting, analysis and providing solutions on different issues.
- Deliver projects such as deployment of new core network nodes (i.e. a new MGW in Airtel Uganda, Deployment of U2020 on NFV in Airtel Uganda, Deployment of IMS network on NFV in MTN Uganda), expansion of core network nodes (i.e. E9000 expansion in MTN Uganda) software and hardware upgrades, configurations, integrations, service testing.
- Ensure availability & TTR SLA are achieved.
- Ensure PM and CM are performed accurately, and reports are timely submitted.
- Ensure that repeat faults are tracked and resolved.
- Ensure all power systems installed meet required standards and are of correct ratings as recommended by the company.
- Ensure staff adheres to minimum company requirements, processes, and policies of employment always.
- Training and development of internal staff are done as per company policy to enhance retention and a better understanding of their performance requirements.
- Maintain employee satisfaction levels at a high and keep turnover at a minimum.
- Ensure the O&M staff have the right Tools, Spares, Scopes, and Standard operating parameters by equipment to maintain the network.
- Ensure continuous improvement in the delivery of quality services based on their timely monthly reviews.
- Ensure appropriate and timely communication with all stakeholders (Operators, O&M team members)
- Ensure that all stakeholder SLAs and their objectives are met.
- Draft scopes/ processes for site activities such as PM, CM, and planned works such as Work Orders.
- Ensure proper and smooth integration of new sites from Projects into the O&M stream.
- Maintain the Quality standard set during ISO certification (Plant and asset integrity) - Generators, Air conditioners, Rectifiers among others.
- Ensure proper transportation, storage, and disposal of hazardous waste/recovered batteries and other used parts.
- Ensure all O&M budgets are maintained, and all network corrective actions are prioritized.
- Provide strategic information to mitigate network risks.
- Draft scopes/procedures for routine site activities like PM, CM, and planned works (NCR/ WO)
Senior Core Network Engineer
Uganda Telecom
08.2018 - 12.2019
- Operations and maintenance of Huawei Media Getways (MGW), MSSs (MSOFTX 3000), HLR, SBC, NGN (i.e. SOFTX3000, SHLR, UMG8900, MRS, SE 2300, N2000).
- Software and hardware upgrade of existing HLRs, MGWs, NGN nodes and MSSs
- Integration of new nodes into the existing network including nodes
- Managing interconnects with other partners.
- Continuous monitoring of traffic performance indicators to ensure high quality of services and implementation of corrective action.
- Carryout periodic backups for all CS core nodes.
Senior Core Network Engineer
Nokia Uganda
10.2014 - 03.2018
- Operations and maintenance of Huawei Media Getways (MGW), MSSs (MSOFTX 3000), HLR/HSS, STP and SBC.
- Software and hardware upgrade of existing HLRs, MGWs and MSSs
- Installation, commissioning and maintenance of New ATCA Huawei MSS (MSOFTX 3000), New MGWs, STP, SBC and new Huawei ATCA HSS.
- Integration of new nodes into the existing network including new BSCs, VAS nodes, MGW, MSS, SMSC, CRBT, MCA, USSD, STP, SBC. Etc.
- Managing interconnects with other partners.
- Continuous monitoring of traffic performance indicators to ensure high quality of services and implementation of corrective action.
- Carryout periodic backups for all CS core nodes.
Senior Core Network Engineer
Airtel Uganda
10.2013 - 09.2014
- Operations and maintenance of Huawei Media Getways (MGW), MSSs (MSOFTX 3000), HLR/HSS, STP and SBC.
- Software and hardware upgrade of existing HLRs, MGWs and MSSs
- Installation, commissioning and maintenance of New ATCA Huawei MSS (MSOFTX 3000), New MGWs, STP, SBC and new Huawei ATCA HSS.
- Integration of new nodes into the existing network including new BSCs, VAS nodes, MGW, MSS, SMSC, CRBT, MCA, USSD, STP, SBC. Etc.
- Managing interconnects with other partners.
- Continuous monitoring of traffic performance indicators to ensure high quality of services and implementation of corrective action.
- Carryout periodic backups for all CS core nodes.
Senior Interconnect and Roaming Engineer
Warid Telecom
01.2010 - 09.2013
- Perform International Roaming Tests (for GPRS, Pre and Post-paid services) according to GSMA specifications.
- Load Roaming data onto the switches and test the signalling functionality
- Perform functional routine/ Roaming &Interconnect tests/duties as may be assigned from time to time.
- Set up Interconnect Routes, Signalling/Switching/Billing testing.
- Take ownership & follow up resolution on all BSU logged incidents – affecting Roaming and Interconnect services.
- Update and maintain the interconnect databases and the roaming information on the GSMA.
- Continuously monitors interconnect traffic performance indicators to ensure high quality of services and implementation of corrective action.
- Inform all relevant stakeholders of faults and complaints regarding roaming and interconnect.
- Roaming and interconnect liaison with all departments and participation in Core Network projects.
- Ensure roaming VAS solutions management.
- Responsible for 1st level Fraud monitoring, risk and audit management and implementation of preventive measures.
- Liaise with external Carriers, vendors and Roaming partners.
- Earth Station resource planning.
- Troubleshooting network failures pertaining core networks, Roaming and Interconnect.
- Core networks planning, installations/ implementations, commissioning and maintenance.
Field Operations Support Manager
MTN Uganda-Huawei Managed Services Team
07.2009 - 12.2009
- Checking out VSWR readings using site master if necessary.
- Alarm checking on all units on the NODEB (Huawei BTS3812E) and RNC (Huawei BSC6810).
- Clearing any alarms that came up on the NODEB (Huawei BTS3812E) and RNC (Huawei BSC6810).
- Ensuring the cleanliness of the NODEB.
- Ensuring that all components on the NODEB are properly grounded
- Take measurements of input and output of DC and AC power supply
- Making Feeder and Jumper cable connectors.
- Carrying out site survey for upgrade on the NODEB.
- Carrying out VSWR and DTF measurements using site masters (Bird and Anritsu).
- Tracing E1 cables to the DDF.
- Making Ethernet connectors (RJ45) for crossover, straight through and rollover cables
- Installing NODEB Cabinets and Battery banks
- Installing RF Antennas.
- Troubleshooting and rectifying any faults that come up on the NODEB and RNC.
- Prepare and submit reports on all Trouble Tickets created on the NODEBs and the RNC, Preventive maintenances on the NODEBs, spares replaced on the NODEBs, all site visits to NODEBs and issues identified on the NODEBs that need urgent attention.
NOC Circuit Switching Engineer and Front Office Manager
Warid-Huawei Managed Services Team
09.2007 - 06.2009
- To ensure end to end fault management processes for the company aligned towards achieving committed SLAs and KPIs by pushing adherence to resolution process.
- To implement a quality procedure of documented process in place, to manage the Warid network effectively and efficiently with continuous review.
- To ensure team work achievement.
- Establishing good working relationship between the Back Office team who were Chinese engineers and the Front Office team who were Local engineers.
- Active involvement in the activities and daily/weekly surveillance, monitoring and reporting of both BSS and Core Network Huawei systems. Performing data analysis to get root causes of service degradation, working hand in hand with both NOC and Field Operations Engineers.
- Provide all necessary tools to empower the Managed service NOC Engineers to perform surveillance, monitoring and ensure resolution more efficiently.
- Optimizing and analyzing the daily work of front office and Back Office engineers, i.e. Analyzing the performance and traffic reports which were made on the MSC, Media Gateway and BSC on a daily, weekly and monthly basis.
- Optimizing and analyzing several KPIs like Availability of the BSC, Availability of the MSC, MGW and HLR. GPRS Nodes Availability i.e. SGSN and GGSN.
- Getting involved in preparing and Analyzing Traffic reports on the MSC, MGW, SGSN, GGSN, BSS and the NGN network which handles fixed lines and International Traffic.
- Recommending upgrades where necessary on several nodes.
- Routine checkups on several traffic nodes (i.e. Huawei MSC, MGW, HLR, SMSC, MUX, BSC and the NGN network).
- Performing configurations and operations where necessary and also getting involved in troubleshooting and rectifying when a fault came up on the GSM Core Nodes (i.e. MSC, MGW, HLR, SMSC, MUX, BSC, BTS and the NGN network).
- Solving customer complaints from both Warid customers and Warid staff.
- Manage Front office engineers and scheduling their trainings.
- Monitor and Manage Front office engineers’ performance.
- Manage Trouble Ticket and escalation processes.
- Manage Response Time Service levels, and take required action to be achieved.
- Manage FO Reports, Trouble Tickets SLAs, Service degradation reports and daily reports.
- Manage the interface of my team with other subcontractors of Warid e.g NERA and FEIL.
Systems Engineer
Raps Uganda Limited
01.2007 - 01.2007
- Computer repairs and maintenance, analyzing/ designing and installing of LAN networks, data recovery, assembling of new computers etc.
Education
Bachelor of Engineering - Telecommunication Engineering
Kyambogo University
01-2006
Uganda Advanced Certificate of Education - undefined
East High School Ntinda
01-2001
Uganda Certificate of Education - undefined
Busoga College Mwiri
01-1998
Primary Leaving Certificate - undefined
St Annes Preparatory School
01-1993
Skills
Core networks planning, installations, integration, configuration, commissioning and maintenance
Optimization of Core networks, Roaming and Interconnect KPIs
Operations and maintenance of GSM core nodes such as Huawei NGN, MSC, Media Gateway, HLR , BSC, STP, SBC, IMS, NFVI, USN, UGW and the Signaling gateway
Preparation of core networks, Roaming and Interconnect traffic reports using the Huawei NMS
Software Upgrades/configurations on Huawei MSCs (Msoftx3000), ATCA MSS, ATCA MGW, Huawei HSS, Media Gateway (MGW), BSC6000 , HLR9820 and Huawei NGN nodes including the signaling gateway (SG7000)
GSM network Monitoring on Huawei NMS platforms such as M2000, T2000, and N2000
Planning, installations/ implementations, commissioning, Optimization and maintenance of interconnects (both local and International)
IREG testing (For postpaid, prepaid and GPRS roaming)
Coordinating different departments for a fast and efficient implementation and operation of Roaming and Interconnect services
Earth Station and fibre (Submarine Cable) resource planning and implementation
Implement appropriate resilience and redundancy solutions for Roaming and Interconnect services
Load roaming data on network nodes and test signaling functionality
Steering of Roaming planning and implementation
Set up Interconnect Routes, Signalling/Switching/Billing testing
Troubleshooting network failures pertaining core networks, Roaming and Interconnect
Troubleshooting and rectifying faults on Huawei NODEB and RNC (BSC6810)
General maintenance of Huawei NODEB and RNC (BSC6810)
GSM network management skills such as enforcing rules and ensuring that required KPIs and SLAs are achieved
Assembling, repairing and maintenance of computers
Configuring a computer to different kinds of hard wares
Installation of Satellite Dishes and Digital Receivers (Satellite TV)
Adept in the use of many computer-programming languages like C, C, C Builder
General knowledge and use of Microsoft Office and Word Processors
Installing, analyzing and maintaining Networks
Configuring a computer to access Internet through CDMA phones
Analyzing computer requirements for an organization
Maintenance and management of computer based systems
Implementation of IT policy skills
Installation and maintenance of Intercoms (PABXs)
Diagnosing and analyzing problems faced by cellular phones using softwares
Interests
Research and development, Reading newspapers, Team Work, Sports, Voluntary Work Camps
Timeline
Roaming & Interconnect Technical Manager
Lyca Mobile Uganda
06.2024 - Current
Core Network Expert
Digitel Holdings LTD
05.2021 - 06.2024
Senior Core Network Engineer and O&M Manager
Huawei Technologies Uganda Limited
01.2020 - 04.2021
Senior Core Network Engineer
Uganda Telecom
08.2018 - 12.2019
Senior Core Network Engineer
Nokia Uganda
10.2014 - 03.2018
Senior Core Network Engineer
Airtel Uganda
10.2013 - 09.2014
Senior Interconnect and Roaming Engineer
Warid Telecom
01.2010 - 09.2013
Field Operations Support Manager
MTN Uganda-Huawei Managed Services Team
07.2009 - 12.2009
NOC Circuit Switching Engineer and Front Office Manager
Warid-Huawei Managed Services Team
09.2007 - 06.2009
Systems Engineer
Raps Uganda Limited
01.2007 - 01.2007
Uganda Advanced Certificate of Education - undefined
East High School Ntinda
Uganda Certificate of Education - undefined
Busoga College Mwiri
Primary Leaving Certificate - undefined
St Annes Preparatory School
Bachelor of Engineering - Telecommunication Engineering
Kyambogo University
ATTRIBUTES
- Good communication skill, interpersonal skills and time management skills.
- Ability to work long hours.
- Direct and open communicator
- Initiative, energy and flexibility